Bonjour, mes chéries! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome to another #TutuTuesday! This week we're whisking back to 1846, a time when the world was abuzz with change, innovation, and yes, you guessed it, tutus! Buckle up, lovelies, because we're going on a whirlwind journey to the heart of ballet history!
Now, 1846 wasn't quite the tutu explosion we see today, but oh my, was there a buzz! Just imagine – ladies fluttering about in skirts shorter than their teacups! It was scandalous! But also… wonderfully freeing, don't you think? The Victorian Era was beginning to bloom, and fashion was starting to cast off its rigid constraints, just like the ladies dancing onstage!
Speaking of ladies, oh my darling readers, did you know that ballet wasn't just about beautiful dancing in 1846? It was a powerful symbol of change. Women were finally finding their voices – not just on stage, but off it, too! We might not have been voting yet, but oh darling, the world was listening, and a new era was on the horizon!
Today's #TutuTuesday focus? The Paris Opera Ballet. This grand establishment was just bursting with talent. It was truly the epitome of elegance!
Now, let me tell you, this era of ballet was absolutely phenomenal. Think ballerinas with incredibly light feet and a passion for technique. It wasn’t the grand and dramatic storytelling we see today, oh no, it was about intricate and elegant movements! And they weren’t afraid to wear the tutus.
One particular highlight for 1846? The famous Carlotta Grisi! Can you imagine dancing like an absolute dream in your lovely tutu? It was a privilege! *You see, my dears, this woman embodied all things fashionable, graceful, and breathtakingly elegant! *
I even popped along to one of her performances in my own little pink number – let's just say it caused a stir amongst the fine gentlemen and ladies! * I have to say, there is something about tutus that simply turns heads – they have a real 'oomph' that makes you feel like a true lady. * And in 1846, there was a distinct sense of joy and optimism amongst those wearing the graceful skirts. * Oh my darling, it was simply sensational!*
As I sit here, nibbling on my petit fours and pondering the exquisite detail of tutus from that era, my mind is whirling with excitement! They were shorter, my dears, and more streamlined, emphasizing the beautiful line of the dancers' bodies. Just imagine, an enchanting array of tutus, in shades of ivory, ethereal pastels, and delicate embroidery. Each dancer's movement transformed into a graceful flurry of tulle, a ballet in motion!
But don't think for a moment that the tutu was all about looking pretty, my dears. In the hands of a master dancer, it became an instrument of pure expression! A beautiful swirl, a sudden leap, a delicate pirouette – each move was elevated, amplified, and embraced by the tulle's embrace.
What did you love most about tutus in the 19th Century? Have you got any favorite ballet styles or ballerinas you’d love to know more about? Do let me know in the comments!
And now, for a little something extra special! As a true #TutuTuesday fan, I thought we could explore this date in time. This 10th of February 1846 marked a truly inspiring event, not directly related to the world of ballet but very dear to the world of fashion – the opening of Liberty's in London. You'll find this landmark at 218-224 Regent Street, and it's more than just a shop – it’s a cultural institution, a world-famous landmark for its elegant fashion and exquisite wares. And believe me, darling, in 1846 it must have been an absolute whirlwind! It became a favorite spot for me for fabulous fashion and a few lovely cakes and tea on those exciting trips back in time!
I truly hope you've enjoyed this time-travelling journey to the elegant world of 1846. Keep a look out next week for a little piece of Parisian magic – you don’t want to miss it!
Now, off I trot to my next ballet class! Be sure to pop by next week and join me for a truly special Tutu Tuesday! And don’t forget to give us a follow on all your favourite platforms to join the pink tutu party!
Your time-travelling Tutu Twin,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com #TutuTuesday