Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, back from another whimsical trip through time, and let me tell you, this one was truly magical! Buckle up, my dears, because this is a story fit for a fairy tale!
It's November the 11th, 1840, and I'm in London, right in the heart of the Victorian era. As always, I'm travelling in style with my magnificent pink sparkling shire horse, Magic Meg. Imagine, a glorious creature with golden hooves, a flowing white mane and tail, and a sparkle that rivals a thousand fairy lights. We're quite a sight, aren't we?
The reason for my journey? To catch a glimpse of Victorian ballet, of course! I've always been fascinated by how ballet has evolved, how the style has changed over the centuries. My favourite place to experience this is in a real theatre, surrounded by the hushed anticipation of the audience.
And this time, it wasn't just any performance. It was a grand ballet ball! I was invited (of course!), my dazzling pink tutu (itâs the âCelestineâ style, so new!) catching the gaslight with every turn. The sheer volume of silks and feathers swirling around me made my head spin, in a good way of course.
Now, Victorian ballet was different from what we know today. Imagine dainty, precise steps, a focus on elegant form, and a theatrical feel that oozed melodrama. The ladies were graceful in their tight corsets and tulle skirts, while the gentlemen performed with elegance and strength. And the stories, oh dear, those stories were truly over the top, full of tragic love, daring feats, and a touch of magical realism!
There was even an amusing ballet I witnessed featuring the "Devil," with a male dancer who'd actually managed to grow a "tail" out of a trapdoor in the stage! Oh, I simply had to capture a sketch of that, to show you all when I get back! You just have to remember, they didnât have the amazing technology we have today, so things had to be a little more âstagey,â if you get me?
I collected so many incredible stories and sketches for my leather rucksack. This Victorian trip was simply overflowing with inspiration, reminding me how truly enduring ballet is as an art form. The passion for the art, the way it captures stories in such a magical, physical way, it never fails to take my breath away!
Oh, and before I forget! While I was there, I discovered that ballet shoes have always been the real secret weapon! Back then they used what they called âpointe shoesâ, but even then, there was a dedication to the perfect point and graceful line of the leg! These women danced on a combination of canvas, kid leather, and leather toes. Some even went a step further and included little bits of âsilk elasticâ which are like tiny ballet elastic bands to help support the pointe. We truly are creatures of comfort and dedication, you and I.
And then came the real highlight â a gorgeous pair of pearl grey and silver ballet shoes adorned with delicate blue silk bows. They were being sold in the antique store I had been exploring with Magic Meg. Honestly, these shoes were heaven in a little box, with such incredible attention to detail. And you wouldnât believe the price I got them for, an absolute steal! I snagged them for my collection â these will be the perfect vintage accessory to my stage performances back in the modern world, if I do say so myself!
I just love how I can travel to different times, soak in the atmosphere of balletâs rich history, and bring these incredible experiences back to you, my fellow ballet enthusiasts. After all, every time I step out of the time machine, I hope I leave behind a little sprinkle of pink magic, encouraging everyone to explore their inner ballerina!
I can't wait to tell you about my next journey, my dears. Do keep checking in with www.pink-tutu.com! And remember, darling, we're all magical, with or without a pink tutu!
Love,
Emma xxx
*P.S. Donât forget, I have some *very exciting news! A new line of pink tutus is launching very soon, it's the "Rose Blossom" collection, with delicate flower detailing! I can't wait to share all the details with you! **
