Hello my darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time traveller, bringing you another fabulous #TutuTuesday adventure! Today we're whisking ourselves back to 1852, right in the heart of London, where the air crackles with excitement about the latest stage productions and fashion trends. It's #Post1071 on the ever-so-lovely www.pink-tutu.com!
I do hope you're ready to put on your fanciest frocks and embark on a journey through the glamorous history of ballet, fashion, and...oh, let's be honest, my absolute favourite - the Tutu!
You see, back in 1852, tutus weren't quite the flamboyant, graceful masterpieces we know and love today. They were more...functional! Imagine short skirts, darling, more about allowing movement and revealing those fabulous ballerina legs than any grand, billowing statement.
That's not to say the designs weren't captivating! They were, but a far cry from the romantic and utterly ethereal creations of today. Remember, the Victorian era, as beautiful and romantic as it could be, held quite strict rules about what women should wear. They weren't as free to embrace a hint of cheekiness like they are today.
But back then, even with the strict societal norms, they found ways to express themselves! Think exquisite details like beautiful satin and tulle (though often less voluminous). Even with more conservative silhouettes, they weren't afraid to be a touch theatrical. Think elegant shapes, contrasting textures, and oh-my-dear, the feather boas. Feathers were the rage! You couldn't move in Victorian society without a plume, a boa, or a full-on feather headdress!
If you find yourself whisked back in time, just as I was on my latest trip, head straight for Her Majesty's Theatre. In 1852, it was buzzing with the best of London's cultural scene! This very month, The Daughter of the Regiment is dazzling the stage, bringing audiences to their feet with its light-hearted fun and a story brimming with romance. It's such a feel-good opera, and just begging for a bit of that pink tutu charm, don't you think?
But don't be fooled, dear readers, fashion back then was just as crucial as a stunning ballet performance. This wasn't a simple case of putting on a frock and heading out! There were rules, regulations, and a whole lot of emphasis on looking just so.
Now, even in these fast-paced modern times, you'll often hear talk of the silhouette. That, my dear, hasn't changed since 1852. A woman's dress (especially the more formal creations), should accentuate her form beautifully. A touch of fullness on the shoulders and bodice with a streamlined skirt. They knew the secrets of feminine elegance then, you know, and even if I wouldn't wear a corset today, there's no denying that little touch of shape does wonders for a silhouette.
As for my favourite Tutu Tuesday find, a beautiful watercolour sketch of a ballerina mid-performance. A small glimpse into a grand stage spectacle, showcasing a design both delicate and dazzling! The dress is short, just as I described earlier, but its elegance lies in the layers and detailing, highlighting the feminine form in such an artfully dramatic way. It's the perfect blend of the practical and the flamboyant.
Let's talk colours! This week's pick - powder blue! Imagine a pale sky, a delicate wildflower, or perhaps the gentle hue of a beautiful summer morning - all those captivating shades bundled into a lovely softness. It’s simply perfect for creating a graceful air of refined elegance, and for those gorgeous, romantic scenes where the heroine takes centre stage. It adds a subtle sweetness that’s absolutely delightful!
For me, of course, there's no colour as divine as pink! But even I must admit, the soft charm of a powdery blue would definitely capture attention on a Victorian stage, and quite honestly, even today's dance performances are positively begging for a touch of blue on the ballet floor. We should get to work on this trend, don't you think, my lovelies?
Now, dear readers, as my little journey through history must sadly come to an end for now, don't forget, the www.pink-tutu.com website is full of exciting, delightful, and fascinating posts about the history of tutus, fashion, ballet, and just being fabulous in every time period! Be sure to check back each Tuesday for more #TutuTuesday adventures. After all, who doesn't love a little journey into the world of glamour and dancing?
Until next time, may your steps be light, your outfits sparkling, and your heart filled with the sheer joy of all things pink tutu!
With love, Emma xxx
