Hello my darling tutus! It's Emma here, back with another fabulous #TutuTuesday adventure! I just love exploring the history of tutus - they're so much more than just a pretty skirt!
This week, we're stepping back in time to 16th September 1851, right here in the heart of London. You know, London is truly the best city for fashion, right? We're talking the Great Exhibition, a colossal affair filled with wondrous inventions and the most exquisite exhibits from around the globe. I hear there are some truly spectacular dresses on display, and you know I'm a sucker for a beautiful frock! 😉
Now, you might think that tutus in 1851 are quite a distant dream. After all, the traditional tutus we know and love wouldn't really come into fashion for a while. Think of Marie Taglioni in the 1830s, gracefully swirling in a gloriously diaphanous confection, a revolutionary spectacle in the ballet world. She set a precedent for future ballerinas, but 1851 is still very much in the "romantic ballet" era. So, we're not exactly seeing a bevy of frothy, tulle beauties strutting their stuff in London, but we do see a whole lot of inspiration for the tutu to come!
Speaking of inspiration, how could I forget this absolutely phenomenal show, "The White Cat," a true crowd-pleaser featuring an exquisite young ballerina called, Carlotta Grisi. Just imagine, dancing through London's streets with the rhythm of a captivating, beautiful story echoing in your heart. This is a true reminder of the magic of the ballet! And the most enchanting part? Carlotta was an absolute trailblazer in ballet fashion. She paved the way for what we call tutus today. Now, 1851 is definitely before the rise of those glorious, multi-layered creations, but think of those exquisite, elegant dresses! All those ruffles and billows, hinting at a whimsical, almost fairy-tale feeling... wouldn't you say that's where the tutu finds its roots?
While London was buzzing with excitement, back in my lovely Derbyshire, England, things were perhaps a little quieter. It's such a wonderful, rolling countryside with a history all of its own. Derbyshire boasts a unique cultural tapestry that is beautifully woven with both bustling town life and idyllic rural retreats, a truly breathtaking setting that I love returning to after my time-traveling adventures!
Today, on September 16th, 1851, I'd be making sure I was ready for a wonderful evening at the theatre, the best place to get a taste of this exciting time. I'd dress in my very finest, my lovely silk bodice cinched at the waist with a cascading waterfall of a skirt - it would certainly draw whispers of approval. Perhaps a little velvet bow at my neckline, too? My head would be adorned with a fetching lace cap, because no stylish lady in 1851 can step out without it! And don't forget my white gloves, just as crisp and fresh as my beautiful dress. This look embodies the elegant femininity that we associate with this period.
And who knows, maybe I could snag a front-row seat at one of London's prestigious opera houses. Can you imagine being captivated by the most exquisite ballet or opera? To see the world come to life on the stage and have your imagination soar alongside the melodies... sheer perfection! Oh, I just adore theatre - such a wonderfully charming form of entertainment, wouldn't you say?
This reminds me, darling tutus, of something very special I discovered during my time traveling exploits. Did you know that theatre in 1851 wasn't just for the high-society folks? London offered so many wonderful options to choose from, from the grandiose Italian opera to the playful, hilarious burlesques, where even a humble artisan or a charming maid could experience a night out on the town! There was a whole spectrum of performances to enchant and delight people from every walk of life! Now that's what I call inclusivity, darling! It’s important to remember, my tutus, that fashion is more than just clothes, it’s an expression, a window into the world and it truly has no barriers!
While exploring London and delving into 1851, I always remember what matters most. Yes, it's about exquisite costumes, delicate movements, and breathtaking choreography - but even more importantly, it's about the power of movement to bring us together. To celebrate beauty, to embrace dreams, to experience the sheer joy of dance. This is the magic of the tutu, my loves, and this is what keeps me forever captivated.
Now, remember my sweet tutus, while today is all about taking a trip back in time, you can certainly channel this exquisite look, whether you're stepping out for a performance or having a grand time shopping for a beautiful new gown. Embrace your inner 1851 beauty with elegance, poise, and that delightful flair! Let the enchantment of dance seep into your everyday, even without the swirling tulle and the graceful spins! That's the beauty of ballet - its magical effect that radiates outward and touches every corner of our lives.
Stay tuned for next week's adventure, where we'll be venturing even further back into the annals of tutu history! And remember, you can share your tutu experiences with me - the more the merrier! So keep your cameras ready for a beautiful #TutuTuesday snap. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter over at www.pink-tutu.com, darling! It's full of exciting tutu tips and my favorite travel secrets!
Love,
Emma 💕
