Post number 2722: www.pink-tutu.com
Hello darling dears! It's Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu Time Traveller! This month I've been whisked back to a particularly exciting time - 10th October 1887! I mean, wouldn't you know it, we were celebrating not one but two ballerinas on this very day. What a fantastic excuse to get out my fanciest pink tutu! And what's more, we were graced with a premiere! But before we delve into all that excitement, let's introduce my lovely steed - Magic Meg, my shimmering pink shire horse, whose golden hooves and white mane and tail always ensure a dazzling arrival!
My satchel, packed with shimmering ribbons, an embroidered ballet fan, and my trusty notepad for scribbling down every glorious dance detail, is already brimming with the fabulous finds of this particular time travel trip. Oh, and of course, you know I couldn't resist indulging in some vintage ballet treasures, which will be finding their way onto my "Pink Tutu Emporium" very soon!
1887 - The Year of the Ballerina
Imagine my delight when, upon arriving, I realised it was a truly momentous year for ballet! Two incredible ballerinas were being celebrated, each with their own distinct and beautiful styles. Firstly, the divine Olga Preobrajenska! Oh, her performances were legendary, renowned for her exceptional grace and ethereal elegance. Imagine soaring leaps and ethereal landings – a true pioneer in ballet!
And then, the equally captivating Anna Pavlova. Just like the twinkling stars above, her movements were infused with captivating charm and an airy lightness. This remarkable dancer was on the cusp of a career that would illuminate the ballet world! I am absolutely giddy at the thought that, as I'm writing this, she is preparing to take the stage at the Maryinsky Theatre in St Petersburg. You can bet your bottom tulle that I'm heading straight to that premiere.
A Premier of Grand Proportions
Speaking of premieres, the excitement around "The Little Humpbacked Horse", composed by Tschaikovsky, had me twirling with joy! This enchanting fairy tale ballet tells the story of a young prince and his journey to overcome hardship with the help of a magical horse! You can just imagine the enchanting melodies, dazzling costumes and incredible feats of choreography! This premiere was such an event, you wouldn't believe it! From the grandeur of the stage to the glittering jewels on the ladies in the audience, every detail was so wonderfully extravagant. And the dancers! You see, this ballet featured male dancers en pointe! Now, wouldn't that be a wonderful addition to a modern performance?
Fashion Finds and Dance Discoveries
One of my favorite parts of time travel is the chance to discover amazing new ballet styles and dance moves! Did you know that 1887 was a crucial turning point in ballet fashion? You can't get much more decadent than a ballet tutu featuring a crinoline skirt! Such layers and layers of gossamer tulle - simply stunning! And, of course, a splash of pink (you know it!) was already starting to feature on some tutus, though not as commonly as today. I managed to snag a few metres of beautiful pink silk ribbon that would perfectly compliment those vintage tutus back at home!
Another fun fact I picked up is that the famous 'pa de deux' was really becoming the show stopper! You'll find a couple twirling, whispering secrets, and engaging in intimate and poetic movement all across the globe. This trend has become a defining feature of classical ballet - I just adore the intimate connection that is created! Oh, and let's not forget those captivating leaps, graceful pirouettes and mesmerising footwork, it all truly was quite beautiful.
Pink Tutu Fashion Frenzy
You see, darlings, it's never too early to start wearing pink! And, when it comes to embracing a bold pink tutu look, it seems that even in the Victorian era, some women had a flair for the fabulous! I managed to pick up the cutest vintage fashion magazine – you know me, gotta love those Parisian couture illustrations! The "fichu", a charming piece of fabric draped around the shoulders, was incredibly popular amongst those fashionable women who sought an extra layer of sophistication. Now imagine this chic detail, crafted in a luxurious shade of pink, paired with a breathtaking ballet tutu. Can you picture it?
Speaking of pink, even today, we see a lot of inspiration for this wonderful shade! I noticed a vibrant rose print silk, so lovely and romantic, on some elegant garments and the "pinking shears" - these tiny blades meant for creating decorative pinked edges on fabric - were still widely in use in this era. Even back then, these small but stylish tools were already influencing fashion and I couldn't help but add some beautiful pinked-edge silk ribbon for my very own pink tutu!
A Dance in the Time Machine!
Of course, with all of the incredible events going on, it felt only right to organise a little pink tutu ball! Imagine a shimmering ballroom, a grand piano playing exquisite melodies, and dancers waltzing to perfection. This trip has absolutely re-inspired my love for classical dance and I'm now dreaming of bringing some of those beautiful classical dances, along with some of the magnificent costuming from this period, to the world through my very own performances!
My dear readers, don't forget to check back in next month for another fabulous journey through time, in a brand new Pink Tutu! In the meantime, don't forget to check out the Pink Tutu Emporium, my online store with an amazing range of tutu styles perfect for everyone, even our dear Magic Meg who loves nothing more than rocking a sparkly pink saddle cloth. And please, always wear a tutu with pride, my dears! Until next month, dance with glee!
