Hello, darlings! It's Emma here, back for another thrilling Tutu Tuesday adventure! Today, I'm whisking us back to March 20th, 1838. Oh, what a fabulous time for fashion and dance! We're taking a little trip to Paris, the city that practically invented chic. You might think of Paris as a haven of chic nowadays, but back then, it was the epicentre of everything glamorous. Think shimmering ballrooms, extravagant gowns, and – you guessed it – the start of the tutu.
This particular Tuesday in 1838, Marie Taglioni, the darling of the ballet world, was dazzling audiences with her graceful movements and exquisite costumes. You might not be familiar with Marie Taglioni's name, but she was, well, a legend. She was one of the most iconic ballerinas of her time, known for her breathtakingly light and airy style. And you know what she helped revolutionise? Tutus.
Before Marie Taglioni, ballet costumes were long, flowy, and very restrictive, like those massive Victorian ballgowns we see in films. Ballet dancers could hardly move! Then Marie arrived and, gasp!, she wore a tutu. Now, it wasn't the romantic, multi-layered, confection we know today, it was a shorter, simple skirt, but it was a revolution. Marie wanted freedom of movement, and her short tutu, the "tutu romantique", became an essential part of the dancer's outfit, giving them the lightness and agility to fly across the stage. Imagine the excitement in the air!
The Parisian scene in those days was a haven of glamour, creativity, and dance. Think of the waltz waltzing through your heart! And while the fashion of the time might seem a little… excessive now, it had its own special charm. Remember that delicate tulle, the sheer silks, the delicate ribbons, and the panniers. (And who doesn't love a good pannier! They add that extra oomph, don't you think?) Oh, darling, the romance of those times, the sheer thrill of watching ballet under the glittering chandeliers. What a privilege!
You might wonder what I was wearing on my trip back in time. Now, I would never break the fashion code of wearing a full-fledged pink tutu, wouldn't dream of it! But, for my historic debut, I kept it classy and elegant: a light, airy pale pink, floaty dress and a cute, simple tulle skirt – a mini tutu of sorts, you could say. You see, I never let go of that playful touch – it’s how I live my life. Imagine this look with a bejewelled crown and a sparkling pair of pink satin gloves! Perfect for a ballet gala at the grand Palais Garnier. Oh, wouldn't that be a sight to see?
And what about you, darlings? Are you itching to travel back in time with me? I am always searching for that magical vintage charm in today's trends, and a little splash of 19th-century extravagance definitely sparks my inner ballerina! Just remember, no matter the era, it's always the time for a little sparkle, a touch of glamour, and most importantly, that feeling that you get when you just have to spin and twirl. It's a magical thing!
*Have a fabulously fashionable Tuesday! Until next time, darlings! *
P.S. Speaking of magical moments, remember to check out my Instagram stories! I just happened to see an incredible show at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden last week! I'll share some snapshots. You just wait for it!
Your loving ballerina, Emma xoxo
* #TutuTuesday #PinkTutu #1830sFashion #DanceHistory #TimeTravel #Ballet #FashionHistory #RoyalOperaHouse #Paris*
