Welcome, lovelies, to my little corner of the internet! Emma here, your ever-so-slightly-obsessed-with-pink tutu blogger from Derbyshire, ready to whisk you away on another adventure through time. It’s a beautiful morning here, sunshine streaming in through the window, a perfect day to saddle up Magic Meg and set off on a whimsical trip. Where are we headed today? You guessed it – back in time, of course!
*This month, we’re travelling to the 7th of July, 1717. * Can you even imagine, my darlings, a world without tutus, without ballet, without… oh dear, I’m getting carried away. But you know how it is when you’re thinking about all that beautiful ballet history. 😉
Speaking of history, this time period was pretty interesting for the world of dance! In France, ballet was really gaining momentum, evolving beyond the courts and into the public realm. They were experimenting with different forms, styles, and even introducing storytelling through the choreography, a far cry from the strict formality of court ballets of earlier times.
Fashion in the 18th Century
Imagine strolling through the cobbled streets of Paris in the mid-1700s – so much to take in! While dresses were a bit more restrictive than what we might be used to, they were undeniably glamorous. Think flowing silk gowns, extravagant embellishments, and a hint of ‘panniers' (the frames used to create that wider silhouette). You know, I actually had a wonderful opportunity to try a pannier myself on my last trip. The silhouette was truly stunning, a bit like a powdered, elegant cupcake, and the silk material was so soft against my skin. I imagine I would have looked rather good in my pink tutu amidst all the swirling silks! 💖 I mean, what else would you expect a ballerina to wear? 😄
Did you know… the dancers in the early 18th century weren't actually wearing what we consider the ‘classic' tutus. They were more like elaborate costumes, usually made of lots of layers of fabric, which could be quite cumbersome! You can see some examples of them in museums if you get a chance - I’ve definitely been planning to add one to my collection (they are stunning in their own way, you know).
What was on the 7th of July 1717?
Unfortunately, finding records from 1717 is a bit of a challenge, you know, without that time travel machine we use ( Magic Meg and I take a very strict approach to safety precautions and only travel with her - I am a practical ballerina). So I’m afraid we don’t know the specifics of any ballet events happening on that day. BUT! Imagine it - you might have stumbled upon a royal ball with beautiful dancers waltzing and leaping to the rhythm of elegant music, or a street performance brimming with vibrant energy, maybe even a theatrical ballet on a stage illuminated by candles. Just picture it! ✨
Bringing it all back to the Pink Tutu
Now, for you lovers of all things ballet (and I'm guessing that includes a healthy dose of pink), there is just one question we have to ask ourselves: how do we bring the joy of pink tutus to this historical era? We can’t be expected to leave it alone to its own fate! The joy of a pink tutu deserves a presence in any timeline, even one from 1717! 😉
Maybe we could encourage some local craftsmen and tailors to create pink ballet fabrics. Maybe, a tutu could make its debut on stage as a vibrant accessory or dance prop? * I know some people might think it’s strange to travel in time with the intention of wearing a pink tutu,* but I simply can't resist its allure! After all, what’s life without a bit of fun and colour, right? And maybe just maybe, it will be a pink tutu that ignites the love for dance in the heart of someone who will, someday, make history.
* I can only imagine the expressions on people's faces when I arrive at a 18th Century event wearing my bright pink tulle.* What a sensation!
But now, I need to pack my rucksack with all the bits and bobs from 1717 ( I am so glad my bag is bottomless!) I’ve always been fascinated by history, and I always make sure to learn about each time period, its culture and dances and maybe pick up some interesting bits. I’m sure this journey will provide more stories to share.
So, until next month, lovelies, keep those pink tutus twirling and let's all dance with our hearts, heads, and, of course, feet. 💖
Remember to follow me on my website at www.pink-tutu.com. See you there! 💖
P.S. Don't forget to tag your pink tutu pictures with #pinktututimetravel. Love to see your time travels, darlings! 💖
