Greetings from the Pink-Tutu Queen!
It's a gorgeous #TutuTuesday here in London, the sun is shining and I'm rocking a pink tulle dream with matching ribbon to make a grand entrance to the theatre.
Today, we're taking a little time travel journey, right back to 16th September, 1834, a date filled with exciting historical events.
But before we dive in, let me ask: Whatās your favourite way to accessorize your tutu?
Maybe a feathered headpiece? Or a silk scarf? Let's discuss all things tutu in the comments!
Back in Time, Before the Tulle
Now, back in 1834, we havenāt quite got the romantic and elaborate tutus we adore today. But ballet was definitely gaining its ālegsā! I bet you can already see my puns, can't you? š The women of this era werenāt yet sporting tutus as we know them, but they were already creating some fabulous silhouettes for stage performances.
Back in my hometown of Derbyshire, England, folks wouldnāt even believe a woman would wear a garment made of only tulle ā thatās how scandalous the idea must have seemed then. But those were the days before tutus took over, werenāt they?
In 1834, women were dancing in lovely white, layered skirts , that allowed for amazing movement. They were light, airy, and allowed for a stunning flutter on stage. A truly magical effect!
Now, even if the women in 1834 weren't quite wearing full-blown tutus, they had something very interesting: the introduction of the ballet shoe. This was a big deal and had a huge impact on how dancers could move, leading to leaps, jumps and twirls that would make the audience gasp in admiration.
The stage was really evolving with the graceful moves that allowed a different way of expressing and moving in a captivating, captivating way. The dance moves were elegant and light - but not quite as dynamic as they would become with the introduction of pointe work. It would still be quite some time until those gorgeous en pointe steps became possible and even then, you just have to see those incredible pointe shoes. And I know how you lot love those amazing ballet shoes!
Time to See a Ballet!Speaking of a magical spectacle, tonight, I am going to see Swan Lake. You all know I adore this performance and Iām hoping I can snag some lovely silk ballet slippers at the Harrods on my way. Now if that isnāt a delightful combination of seeing a classic and snagging a cute ballet accessory ā I donāt know what is.
If youāre looking to expand your dance experience, and if you happen to be in the area, come to see Swan Lake tonight! I'll see you all there!
I must run! The theatre awaits me and my pink tutu. Now, where are those slippers I bought last week? And my beautiful feathered headpiece, naturally. Oh, the joy! It's another wonderful day to wear pink, my friends.
See you on the train to London tomorrow, my dear tutus, until then ā may all your tutus be filled with magic and a lot of fun! š
Love and hugs, Emma
Postscript:
Today, the 16th September, 1834, the Great Western Railway started passenger services. Now, I love taking the train. It gives me the perfect opportunity to write my #TutuTuesday blog posts! And with its elegance and comfort, is there a better way to travel for a lover of all things pink, girly and dance-filled? š
I wonder, did anyone on that train wear a tutu?!
I bet my pink tutu would look utterly stunning on a train ride. š Donāt you think? Let me know! Iām already plotting to make it happenā¦ and possibly bring the worldās first pink tutu party on the train!
P.S. - Be sure to check back in for next weekās #TutuTuesday, where I will be discussing the rise of pointe work! Donāt miss out on a fascinating look back at how dancers started dancing on their toes!
