Hello my darling dancers, welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels! This month, we're whisking ourselves back to February the 2nd, 1880, and trust me, it's a date filled with delightful surprises for a tutu-loving girl like myself! Now, settle in, grab a cuppa and let's hop on Magic Meg, my oh-so-sparkling pink Shire horse, and journey through time...
A Ballet Whirl Through 1880
Imagine a world without mobile phones, streaming services, or even electricity! But despite the lack of such modern marvels, the world of ballet was alive and kicking in 1880. And, oh, the fabulous costumes they wore! The ladies danced in fluffy tutus, flowing gowns and bodices, and of course, sparkles, sparkles, sparkles - something I always approve of!
Back in 1880, ballet was experiencing a resurgence in popularity, particularly in Russia and France. The Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg, known then as the Imperial Ballet, was abuzz with activity. Choreographer Marius Petipa, the "father" of many beloved ballets like Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty, was creating new works that still captivate audiences today. Imagine, dancing to the music of Tchaikovsky or Rimsky-Korsakov, in the magnificent Mariinsky! Shivers!
But the ballet world was not only centered in Europe. The year 1880 was significant for the rise of the ballet tradition in America too. Ballet classes were gaining popularity and travelling companies brought European dance traditions to new audiences. Can you picture yourself in a ballroom, decked out in a flowing gown, being wowed by elegant pirouettes and majestic leaps? That's exactly the scene being set across America at this time!
A Shopper's Delight: Fashion in 1880
Speaking of those ballroom gowns, 1880 was all about fashion and more fashion! Just as ballet companies travelled, so did the newest trends in dresses. The crinolines, those cage-like contraptions that helped hold the large skirts, were beginning to be replaced by the bustle - a padded cushion attached to the back of the skirt, making for a very different silhouette.
This period also saw a move towards more "practical" garments, as the silhouette changed towards the natural form. This doesn’t mean an end to femininity, however. The era still favoured lovely fabrics such as silk, velvet, and lace, and always with delicate floral embellishments - exactly the type of frills my pink tutu-loving heart can get behind!
Of course, with a new season comes new must-have accessories, and ladies of this period wouldn't be caught dead without their lace parasols and stylish hats adorned with feathers and jewels. Speaking of jewels, this was a fabulous era for jewelry, too. Elaborate earrings and necklaces with pearl and gemstone accents, and sparkling brooches galore - I just adore the intricate craftsmanship and delicate details!
Shopping with Magic Meg in 1880 London
Let's imagine for a moment: it's February 2nd, 1880. The morning mist is just starting to clear above London. I've hitched my lovely Meg, who’s looking oh-so-fabulous in a matching pink silk bridle, and we’re off on a shopping adventure! We are destined for Harrods, that most prestigious of stores, newly opened only 7 years earlier. Now that’s a destination that screams fashion!
Stepping inside, I’m enveloped in an atmosphere of pure luxury, a symphony of beautiful fabrics and exquisite trinkets, a vision in swirling skirts and billowing hats! As a ballerina, a girl has to look the part!
This period saw a revolution in retail, with departments specializing in fashion, furniture, and all sorts of intriguing objects. My little heart thrummed with excitement as I picked out ribbons and laces, envisioned my dance outfit - perhaps a tutu inspired by the colours and fabrics on display at Harrods, what a fabulous idea!
I think, wouldn’t it be absolutely wonderful to design my own pink tutu, maybe with floral appliqués and layers of delicate, fluttering tulle! Just imagine - performing in front of royalty in such a dazzling creation.
A Peek Into the Ballet Shows of 1880
Now, to get a better sense of the ballets themselves, we can take a peek into a playbill from 1880. One particular gem on display is the famous dancer and choreographer, Marie Taglioni, who debuted in London in 1830 with her stunning performances in ballets like La Sylphide, the ultimate Romantic ballet.
What are ballet companies showcasing this month, you ask? Well, let's look at London. Covent Garden, the famed theatre, held ballets such as the dramatic Giselle which was all the rage back in the 1840s. Imagine, graceful movements paired with expressive storytelling that touches upon the darker side of life – an enchanting tale to witness indeed.
A Tutu for Every Dancer!
I hope you enjoyed our journey back to 1880, dear readers. Just imagine: a time where elegant movements and lavish costumes intertwined to create a visual symphony of grace and beauty, a time when ballet thrived in both grand theatres and bustling ballrooms. The spirit of dance, like a well-executed fouetté, continues to spin, captivating audiences for centuries!
My mission, you know, is to get everyone wearing a pink tutu! It’s not just a costume, but a symbol of empowerment, femininity, and the pure joy of movement. Let’s inspire everyone to embrace their inner ballerina - it's all about the joy of expression, isn't it?
I leave you now, to go design another fabulous pink tutu and I cannot wait to share my next Time Travelling Tutu Adventures with you! Do check out my website, www.pink-tutu.com, for all the details on my performances and my next exciting Time Travels! Until then, keep dancing and dreaming!
Love,
Emma
P.S. Did you enjoy this post, lovelies? Then do comment below and tell me about your favourite dance shows and why! And maybe even let me know if you think it’s time for a pink tutu for every occasion, hehe!
