Oh darlings, what a delightful day I had in my latest ballet time-travel escapade! The weather in Derbyshire had been positively miserable, with drizzle and fog thick enough to cut with a knife, making it near impossible for Magic Meg to do her prancing around the meadow, and for me, well, you can't very well do a graceful grand jeté in these conditions, now can you? Thankfully, time-travel calls, and that wonderful feeling of escaping a rather dreary day into a world of twirling tutus and inspiring ballets, helped me pull myself out of my usual "why can't it be sunshine in Derbyshire every day?" mood!
And wouldn't you know it? The year 1892, April 4th, was overflowing with excitement, and for the most part, all thanks to ballets of course!
First, let's just have a little look at what's happening in the world of ballet around the globe, and trust me darlings, there are quite a few interesting events worth noting.
- In Paris, The OpĂ©ra Comique were presenting "Le Postillon de Lonjumeau", a charming one-act opĂ©ra comique, and on April 10th âLa Chaste Suzanneâ, which sounded absolutely divine!
- At the ThĂ©Ăątre de la GaĂźtĂ© in Paris, the ballet world was mesmerized by "Le RĂȘve dâune nuit dâĂ©tĂ©". Can you imagine a production featuring the most beautiful sylphs, dreamy costumes, and enchanting music? It's practically a pink-tutu-loving girl's dream come true!
Over in Italy, Naples had its very own balletic treat. The Teatro San Carlo, which has long been one of the oldest and grandest opera houses in Italy, showcased "La BayadĂšre", which if you've never had the pleasure of watching this magical spectacle, then let me just say this - It is the epitome of romance, with incredible costuming, graceful movements, and a compelling storyline! You really feel for the doomed heroine Nikiya! And let's not forget that oh-so-romantic duet! It was an absolute must-see for any ballet aficionado, or for any one who's just plain romantic, really.
But, the big highlight of the day was the Teatro alla Scala, the Italian opera house in Milan. This prestigious venue was presenting "La BohĂšme", with exquisite choreography, and let me just tell you, nothing says sophisticated chic quite like a well-presented ballet performance at a glamorous location like this. I just had to go have a little peek and be in the audience for this particular ballet - such divine, luxurious seating. You really felt a certain grandeur and sense of elegance in the air, that just makes my girly heart flutter, like a ballerina mid-pirouette.
Now, don't be too worried darlings. While you can't get on your magical, sparkling shire horse Magic Meg and zoom through the eras (yet!), I'm still finding ways to share my love for this incredible history of ballet, with you!
It was, of course, all those exquisite ballets that were inspiring my very own pink-tutu fashion statement. And that is just what I will share next, my latest inspiration! Pink-tutu inspired looks to help bring the beautiful elegance of the past into the present.
Here we go...
For that "La BohĂšme" chic look: The ultimate timeless classic. A fitted black bodice (always chic) but this time, with a dramatic touch â a wide satin bow adorned with shimmering pearls on the shoulder or a matching belt. You don't need a super long tutu (let's save that for a full-blown grand spectacle) but choose one with an exquisitely flowing drape. And just to top off the look - imagine delicate, pearl earrings â just a simple pair to let those earrings peek out through the flowing tulle. This outfit can take you from an evening out in Derbyshire to a magical night out in a beautiful city. Don't you just feel like you're stepping straight out of an opera house when you wear something like this?
Now, for something with just a touch of "La BayadĂšre" enchantment. It wouldn't be right not to embrace a little hint of romantic India! Think about that elegant but fiery beauty of Nikiya â she is definitely inspiring. For this, the key to nailing it is a long, flowing skirt â maybe a paisley print if you are feeling adventurous - just add a gorgeous embroidered bodice. Add some jeweled bangles (think delicate and colorful!) or maybe an oversized beaded bracelet. Just enough to complete the look of a princess in a fairy tale world. And with that pink tutu flowing out behind you, you really feel like you can take a leap right out of the play and straight into a dance on stage. Don't be afraid to go bold â just keep the balance between graceful and powerful.
Now, here's the big secret - you really don't need to go back in time for a taste of a ballet classic. You can bring the elegance, the grace, and the beauty of these wonderful stories and performances right to you with the magical power of your pink tutu and a dash of imagination. And just think! Every time you dress up in a fabulous pink tutu you'll be remembering, honoring, and keeping alive a wonderful history, and celebrating this marvelous, inspiring, art form of ballet, through the decades. Isn't it amazing how history really does come to life, with the power of our imaginations? Just a little something to think about, darling.
Until next time, Emma x
