Hello my darling tututistas! It's Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing, time-traveling ballerina, back with another #TutuTuesday post! This week, I've whizzed back to 5th November 1850, a date brimming with intrigue and historical fashion fun!
Now, you all know I adore a bit of historical fashion, and what better way to travel back in time than wearing my trusty pink tutu! (By the way, if you're thinking of starting a time-traveling adventure of your own, I highly recommend packing a good pair of tights! I speak from experience, and let's just say that a vintage, ahem, "gentlemanly" frock coat wouldn't have been the most flattering outfit for a night out at the ballet.)
Today, we're going to chat all things tutu, as it was happening in the middle of the 19th century! Imagine, no Lycra, no synthetic fabrics! Can you picture the magic that came from natural materials creating a fluffy and whimsical ballerina dress?
The 1850s, an Era of Elegant Silhouettes
Stepping back to this era is like taking a trip into a ballet illustration – swirling skirts, a nod to the romanticism and grandeur of the time. We're still firmly within the romantic ballet period, with fluid lines and elegant silhouettes dominating the stage. Forget about those super tight, modern tutus - imagine full, flowing tutus made from the most luxurious fabrics, such as silk, tulle, and sometimes even gauze. It's a ballet that screams fairytale and delicate charm!
The Queen of Fashion - and the Queen of the Stage
Now, let's talk Paris! We're at the centre of the fashion world, where the very haute couture creations were the talk of the town! Think Marie Taglioni, the legendary ballerina. This iconic figure was all about the delicate en pointe dancing, perfectly balanced on the tips of her toes. And did you know her legendary performance of "La Sylphide" in 1832 made a HUGE splash in the ballet world? I'm not talking about just the ballerina's dance, but about her magnificent, flowing tutu! The delicate and whimsical style made an impression on the entire Parisian world - making tutus even more glamorous and popular than before!
So what was happening in Paris on November 5th, 1850?
Well, imagine the smell of croissants wafting through the air as you walk past elegant ladies in bonnets and corsages. If you're in the mood for a bit of artistic delight, you could have strolled into The Opéra de Paris! The French capital's iconic ballet institution, it was overflowing with beautiful dancing ladies in tutus made for both performance and grace.
*The allure of this enchanting era? * I think it's a perfect blend of artistry and graceful femininity! Just picturing a dancer twirling on stage with her flowing white tutu makes my heart soar!
Travelling with My Pink Tutu
Now, to make it all the way back to 1850, I had to make use of my trusty travel budget. To get to Paris, I went for a classic - the train journey! Talk about a whirlwind of Victorian glamour! Imagine leather seats, gleaming brass accents, and a hint of cigar smoke wafting through the air. Of course, I had to wear a stylish dress under my trusty pink tutu, with some lace and bows because every detail counts when it comes to looking chic while travelling through time!
And, yes, I took full advantage of the Victorian travel attire - you can imagine me perfectly fitted bodice, a wide, flowing skirt and a fashionable straw boater. Let's face it, even the most stylish train ride needs a dash of whimsy, which is why my pink tutu made its appearance during a delightful ballet performance in the middle of a lovely London station. I have to admit, my tutu caused quite a stir! People were positively entranced with the fluffy confection, some even breaking out their sketchbooks to capture it all! (By the way, those lovely Victorian drawings would make such a fantastic post for a later #TutuTuesday. Hmm! Make a note of it, Emma!)
A Whirlwind of Style and Beauty
You know, while I could talk all day long about Victorian tutus, I don't want to overload you with history. Let's recap: 1850s fashion was a ballet enthusiast's dream! Silky, airy and perfectly formed - the tutus were simply magnificent. From the dazzling gowns to the* graceful dancing on pointe,* it was truly an age of elegance! *Now go forth, wear pink and spin a few pirouettes yourself! *
Until next week, remember to always embrace the beauty of a classic pink tutu, and stay sparkling, my darlings! 💖🩰
Love, Emma.
P.S. I would love to hear your thoughts about 19th century tutu fashion. What is your favorite style? Tell me in the comments below! Don't forget to follow www.pink-tutu.com for the most exciting tutu adventures! 💖
