Hello darlings, and welcome to Pink Tutu Time Travel, your monthly dose of history and glamour!
This month, I’ve travelled all the way back to 1820, a time when ballet was on the cusp of a thrilling transformation. I'm talking swirling skirts, expressive steps, and, yes, some of those delicious romantic tutus I just adore.
It’s a whirlwind, being here in the past. Especially in 1820 when everyone thought trousers were scandalous on women and those “delicate” dancers could only really wear flowing robes. Imagine the scandal! Me, in a glorious pink tutu! They’d think I was a mischievous little pixie from a fairy tale. But that's alright with me, the gossip keeps things exciting. 😉
This journey is quite special. Today, 5th of May, 1820, I'm experiencing ballet history in the making! It’s been a journey across Europe with my beloved Magic Meg (more on her fabulousness later!). Let me tell you, it was quite the ride! My beautiful pink sparkling shire with her golden hooves and white mane is such a sight to behold. She really turns heads when we arrive at these historic locations, drawing the most surprised stares and questions - all adding a touch of enchantment, don't you think?
Speaking of enchanting, imagine the grandness of Paris in 1820! So much inspiration for the little dress-up dreamer in me, and, of course, my rucksack. It's overflowing with sketches, snippets of gossip about legendary dancers and the very fabric of the tutus that were fashionable then - so different, so wonderful. I'm quite sure there's some 1820's brocade nestled amongst my precious collection too - all carefully gathered from vintage stores along my travels, of course, wink wink.
Oh, let me tell you about what's happening in the world of ballet on this glorious 5th of May, 1820:
In London, at the King's Theatre, they’re celebrating the great Maria Taglioni, who danced in “La Sylphide,” which everyone was raving about, all swirling tutus and heavenly lightness! I so want to time travel to one of her performances - she is legendary!
Vienna was another bustling ballet center, brimming with energy. I could feel the electric buzz of excitement there! But, alas, not a single performance tonight, everyone was recovering from their waltz and polonaise practice. That doesn't mean I didn't enjoy a peek into their private lessons! It was utterly charming - these young women are incredibly dedicated to their art.
Paris was truly alive with movement - Mademoiselle Bigottini, a petite little spark plug with incredible jumps! The sheer exuberance of her movement in her pale pink costume set me alight with excitement. And guess what, my dears? In a quiet back alley in Paris I found a hidden gem – a tutu so incredibly similar to the ones Mademoiselle Bigottini wore on stage, all swish and swirl. A true treasure for my rucksack and, oh my! The perfect inspiration for a new tutu!
And about that magical steed of mine! Yes, Magic Meg is, well, truly magical. You simply have to see her shimmering coat - she sparkles with such energy and a playful charm that only a truly beautiful creature like her possesses. And did I tell you about her golden hooves? I swear she hoofs like a professional dancer!
As for the fashion in the world of ballet, it's fascinating! We're talking about delicate silks and gauzy fabrics with some intricate embroidery, a true contrast to the tutus of today, yet just as elegant, don't you think? The ladies have this simple grace about them in these dresses that makes their movements all the more mesmerising, truly mesmerizing! I have been watching many ladies practicing in these simple, airy styles.
In Derbyshire, they had just had a huge snowstorm (apparently this is very common). Thankfully, Magic Meg knows the road through all kinds of weather. And the local folk are still trying to warm up by the fireplaces after this incredibly cold winter. And, oh! You've never seen so many people wearing sheepskin! Not my personal taste, my dears, I can't deny it, but definitely keeps out the frost!
As for me, my quest to convert the world to the wonders of pink tutus continues! I may be in a past where my style would be quite shocking, but you never know, the spark of inspiration may just start right here, with me and Magic Meg, showing them all just how utterly enchanting and wonderful tutus really are! 😉
So, what will you be wearing today, darlings? Maybe you'll find a bit of pink to add to your outfit? I think we can all use a little bit of that magic in our everyday life!
Until next time,
Your Pink Tutu Time Traveller 🩰💖
