Hey darlings! Emma here, back from another exhilarating time travel escapade! This month, my pink tutu and I journeyed to the 18th century, specifically 12th December 1734. Buckle up, lovelies, as I share the secrets of a time gone by!
It's been a whirlwind of an adventure, I tell you!
Riding Magic Meg through the Centuries
This time, we ventured into a world of powdered wigs, elegant gowns, and – gasp – no pink tutus! Shudder It's moments like these that make me grateful for our era's sartorial liberation.
Speaking of which, Magic Meg was truly the epitome of grace. This time, my trusty steed sported a pink shimmery satin saddle cloth, just to set the mood. Of course, Meg's hooves shimmered with a glorious golden sheen, a testament to her noble spirit.
A Dash of Parisian Flair
Paris was buzzing with a flurry of creative energy back then. You can just imagine the scent of perfume mingling with the anticipation of the upcoming ballet season. I spent my days strolling through the quaint streets, taking in the beautiful architecture, and spying on rehearsals for the Paris Opera Ballet. Imagine my excitement when I stumbled upon a performance of “Les Indes galantes”!
A Peek Behind the Scenes
The Parisian dance scene back then was all about courtly grace, grandeur, and delicate steps. It wasn't until a little later that ballet adopted the expressive vocabulary and athleticism we know and love today.
I learned that the original choreographers for "Les Indes Galantes" were Claude-François Cahusac, a lawyer who wrote ballet libretti and even tried to codify ballet, and François Le Barbier, a master of spectacle and theatrical effect. I snagged some precious information for my Ballet History Files and a rare booklet of original choreographic notes from that show - priceless!
Vintage Treasures
But it wasn't all about the ballet, though, darling! I took advantage of my trip to gather a few vintage treasures. In my rucksack now, I have:
- A miniature portrait of a charming ballerino, a dancer whose expressive grace would inspire dancers for generations to come!
- A vintage ballet slipper from the era. Sigh. They were so small and elegant!
A rare antique book on 18th century French costume design, a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration!
Pink Tutu Adventures:
Sadly, pink tutus hadn't quite made their grand entrance on the Parisian stage just yet! To remedy this, I donned my own shimmering, cherry-pink confection in the center of the Place des Vosges and struck a pose. A group of children, enchanted by the vibrant colour and movement, followed suit with twirls and spins of their own, improvising with their makeshift tutus of scarves and fabrics.
I always make a point of finding ways to spread the Pink Tutu Love everywhere I travel, my dears!
Ballet Fashion Trends - A Time Travel Update!
Fashion in 1734, in case you're wondering, was all about powder, embellishments, and elaborate gowns for ladies, and breeches and lavish coats for gentlemen. Imagine ballet dancers in full regalia with layers upon layers of petticoats, frills, and an abundance of glittering fabric - all topped off with their powdered wigs! Talk about a challenge for a dancer's stamina!
I collected some gorgeous fabric samples, particularly the vibrant hues of blue, yellow, and pink that were all the rage. I have grand plans to whip up a stunning pink tutu ensemble that nods to 18th-century Parisian style!
A Bit of Fashion Nostalgia
You see, dear friends, the beauty of fashion is in its cyclical nature! Fashion always comes back around in some way. Whether it's a vintage frock, a timeless ballet bun, or the alluring allure of a pink tutu, it's all about the power of expression, grace, and beauty!
Coming Up!
My next destination is still top secret, my darling lovelies! But I'm sure to unveil some fascinating tidbits and more enchanting discoveries from the realm of Ballet History! So stay tuned for more pink-tutu filled adventures on www.pink-tutu.com !
Until next month,
**XOXO,
Emma 💕🩰**
