#TutuTuesday: A Whirlwind Tour Through 1853!
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Greetings, my fellow tutu enthusiasts! It's your favourite pink-clad time traveller, Emma, back again for another dazzling dive into the history of our beloved ballet garb. Buckle your pointe shoes, darling, because this week we're heading all the way back to the 19th century!
Oh, the thrill of time travel, you know? Today I'm waltzing through the cobbled streets of Paris, the city of lights and fashion, where the ballet is as popular as a croissant on a cafe terrace! Imagine, tutus were already a big thing back in 1853. It's mind-boggling, isn't it?
The year 1853 is a particularly fascinating time for our beloved tutus. As I sip my café au lait at a Parisian cafe, watching the charming Parisian gentlemen doff their hats and admire the ladies with their flowing skirts, I marvel at how things have changed. You see, during this time period, tutus were making a dramatic debut! The iconic tutu shape was really gaining ground. Remember the beautiful layered tutus worn by dancers at the Royal Opera House in London? They are becoming incredibly popular, much to my delight!
The ballet world in 1853 was a symphony of artistry, a whirlwind of emotions expressed through every twirl and plié. Can you imagine the excitement?
Today, March 29th , it's the first day of Spring, a truly exciting time! I've made a beeline to the Palais Garnier, the breathtaking theatre in Paris, the very spot where those enchanting ballerinas pirouette their hearts out. There’s a grand gala happening this evening featuring the French Romantic Ballet, and I'm beside myself with excitement!
As I weave my way through the opulent grand salon of the Palais Garnier, admiring the rich red velvet and gilded mirrors, I catch glimpses of a world of swirling, dreamy tutus. This is the birthplace of modern ballet! It’s truly an inspiring experience. I mean, imagine a room full of dancing ladies in their elegant tutus and that fantastic orchestra just waiting to begin! This is the moment that will inspire generations of ballet lovers. It's magic, my friends!
Oh, and speaking of magic, just a peek into the fashionable world of 1853: think of those charming, whimsical ball gowns adorned with ribbons and lace! My imagination is soaring just thinking of the exquisite colours. There's pink, of course! It's absolutely everywhere, darling, from beautiful gowns to those exquisite bouquets that gentlemen proudly present to the ladies. Even the hats are festooned with blooms, such vibrant beauty, all topped with soft feathers!
My head is still reeling from all the magnificent gowns, dresses and corsets - just thinking about the elaborate designs on them, the delicate lace details! Oh, it's a feast for the eyes, darling. I long for my sewing machine so I could have a crack at recreating these lovely ensembles, just for a splash of 19th century flair at the next dance recital back home!
Tutus have truly come a long way! Back in this time, they were much more elaborate with yards of soft tulle layered upon layers, forming a dreamlike, billowing, romantic spectacle. Just like I imagine fairies, darling! Just a delightful and breathtaking sight! And, my dears, they’ve just started appearing in a multitude of vibrant colors, bringing a splash of vibrancy to the stage! I do love a touch of pink, of course. I couldn't have missed out on picking myself a divine pink tutu, the shade of the fairest rosebuds - pure heaven. Just lovely, isn't it?
I couldn’t resist grabbing a lovely bouffant, or bustle, to go with my gorgeous gown and an enveloppe. Just lovely, isn’t it? They just add to that gorgeous romantic 19th century feel.
It’s all about fashion, darling! Even if you’re not on stage, these looks can still work! I bet a lovely silk gown and a dainty top hat will look positively stunning at the next fancy ball you’re going to, darling! Imagine how much you'll turn heads! I've already ordered myself a new parasol with a beautiful embroidered cover! Imagine my joy to walk along in my pretty gown, swaying a delicate fan in one hand and a gorgeous parasol in the other. Oh my goodness, how utterly charming!
Well, my lovely readers, that’s it from the dazzling world of 1853. I do hope you’ve enjoyed our little historical journey! Just don't forget that * fashion has no limits! So embrace the inspiration, dress up with a bit of whimsy, a dash of pink, and feel like a fairy! You just can't go wrong, darling. Now, excuse me, I need to hop on this vintage train! It’s just outside the Palais Garnier, taking me straight to a fashion boutique! Oh, those incredible lace blouses! They are simply divine! Until next time!
Yours in Pink Tutus,
Emma