Hello darlings! Welcome back to my weekly #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog here on www.pink-tutu.com. It's your favourite Derbyshire-born ballerina, Emma, here, fresh from another incredible time travel adventure, and with a delightful tale about ballet history to share!
Today, my lovely lot, we're stepping back to 21st July 1840. This was an utterly splendid era, darling, so much fashion! And today I'm whisking you all to the centre of the dance universe - Paris! It's the perfect place to get your tutus in a twist, as they say. 😉
As I pirouetted onto the cobblestone streets, all decked out in a gorgeous fuchsia-pink tutu and a matching bonny lace parasol, I practically felt the bustle of the Parisian social scene. Paris was already a beacon of fashion and innovation back then. Can you imagine the magnificent fashions these chic Parisian ladies would be rocking?!
Today was the grand opening of a little dance spot called Salle Ventadour, named after a fabulous theatre. Now, it wasn't exactly a fully-fledged opera house, darling, but for a time, it certainly did attract some fabulous ballet talent. Imagine - dancers twirling away, silk scarves swirling, while the applause filled the air! I’m told it would be frequented by the most high society ladies and gents - who probably rocked some exquisite tutus themselves!
Speaking of tutus, did you know that around this time the tutu we recognise today started to gain traction? Imagine it - those ethereal, graceful tutus that whisk us away to magical lands of wonder. The design wasn't as perfectly pointy yet as they would be in later times, mind you - imagine them a little fuller, a little more, well, puffy!
Remember though - the full-on tutu revolution had to be brought about, right? It wasn’t a one-night spectacle, it was a fashion evolution - like a very slow graceful pirouette in slow motion. Now the fashion was to lengthen skirts more for elegance, with the ballerinas showing off long legs. We've definitely come a long way since those days. Think those puffy ones? A true throwback to earlier styles! But even then - and let's not forget - these women were already captivating hearts, showcasing talent and grace.
Speaking of grace, darlings, I've got some truly enchanting inspiration for you all!
## How To: Fashionable Ballerina for Summer 1840
Let's recreate those Victorian Parisian looks, darling, because every day can be a #TutuTuesday if we choose! Now for some stylish hints that could transform you into a darling of that period:
- Embrace the White: Oh, white is your new best friend! Just as the fashion trend in Paris at the time leaned towards white dresses for maximum chic - white can be your magical ballet staple. Imagine the impact: elegant white skirts, crisp blouses - and of course, those stunning ballet slippers - what more could you desire!
- The Frills & Flounces: Nothing says 1840 like lots of fabric, right? Lace! Ruffle trims! Think about the flowy, romantic dresses and bodices. And don’t forget that gorgeous lace to accent those little bonnets that were so stylish in Paris at the time!
- Your Favourite Accessory: Yes, darlings - a good old-fashioned parasol! Think those adorable sunshades in white or light pinks to accent your white skirt or outfit. For even more whimsy, accessorize with little fabric flowers! It will not only shield your delicate face from the summer sun, but also add an extra flourish to your look.
- Hair-raising Glamour: This one’s all about your lovely locks, my dears! Hair could be worn up, in little chignons, but it could also be quite elaborate! Think pretty headbands and bonnets to add to that lovely flowing skirt!
- The Shoe-shining Effect: Remember ladies, even back then those ballet slippers were all about the elegance! And trust me - your ballerina slippers need to shine! They were, after all, the first glimpse of a dancing star!
That's just the tip of the iceberg for 1840's style, darlings! And the best part? You can adapt any of those looks for your modern outfits too. Maybe give that lovely white cotton blouse with a ruffled neckline a twirl, add some flowers to a pink lace trim... you are the queen of your own ballet world, after all!
Now, with my darling #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History tidbits out there for you to savour, it’s time to jet off to my next destination - Vienna, my darlings! Where shall we go on our next tutu-licious adventure? Maybe we’ll find an opera house with a stage adorned with tutus galore...
Don't forget to share your own ballerina-inspired looks, travel stories, or even your favourite tutu memories using #TutuTuesday in the comments!
Until next time, stay glamorous!
Emma x
