Bonjour mes amies! Emma here, your trusty Tutu Tuesday guide, back with another enchanting journey through time! This week, we're skipping back to 1835, the year when tutus started to twirl their way into the spotlight.
Now, I know what you're thinking - pink? In 1835? Well, darling, even back then, there was a yearning for the colour of romance! Pink, although considered more "masculine" than feminine at the time (oh, how the times have changed!), was becoming increasingly popular, and, like me, you'll be delighted to know it was en vogue in fashion, particularly in Parisian fashion, which at the time was considered the style to be seen in!
And let me tell you, Paris was bursting with excitement for ballet in 1835! The legendary Marie Taglioni was captivating audiences with her revolutionary "white" tutu - although the skirts were much fuller and longer than our modern, knee-skimming styles. And darling, imagine it - Marie twirling across the stage, in a breathtaking billowing gown of white, a true spectacle of ethereal beauty! It must have been breathtaking!
Of course, back then, you couldn't just hop into a shop and purchase a pre-made tutu! If you wanted to waltz on stage, you'd have to get yours bespoke from a tailor. This means they would carefully craft every detail to create a unique masterpiece - think a work of art for your twirling needs! This bespoke creation made the ballerina's tutu truly individual and unique, much like you, darling, when you select that perfect piece of fabric for your next pink tulle masterpiece!
Parisian Splendour and 1835 EventsNow, let's paint a picture of Paris in 1835! This era was bustling with political change, artistic fervor, and, yes, a love for fashion! A new King Louis Philippe I had just ascended the throne, promising a brighter future for France. People were excited about change! Imagine the streets filled with stylish Parisians wearing their latest fashion - they were truly the style leaders of their time!
This year, on October 6th, we see the beginning of The Life and Adventures of Martin Chuzzlewit, a satirical novel by Charles Dickens. I am utterly smitten by his works. Nicholas Nickleby, which we know premiered in 1838, features a fantastic character, Mrs Nickleby, who even travels in style! Her outfits could give my darling grandmothers a run for their money!
And, of course, we're not forgetting the ballets! Just imagine the enchanting music, the beautiful costumes, and the mesmerizing movements that captivated audiences. This era saw a blossoming of artistic expression, with the romantic ballets gaining huge popularity!
Now, darling, you know my ultimate goal in life - I am utterly devoted to spreading the love of the pink tutu, from Paris in 1835 to the Derbyshire moors today! As a fashionista and a time-traveling ballerina, it's my mission to keep this graceful garment in the spotlight, where it belongs.
So, how are you celebrating Tutu Tuesday today, darling? Are you whipping up a new creation? Attending a show? Or simply daydreaming about dancing? Whatever it is, do tell!
Au revoir, my lovely friends, and happy twirling!
Emma xoxo
Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for more #TutuTuesday history!
