Bonjour, my darlings! It's Emma, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time traveller, back with another thrilling #TutuTuesday blog post! Today we're taking a trip back to the glorious era of 1854! Now, 1854, my dears, was a truly dazzling year for the art of ballet. The air was abuzz with exciting premieres, glamorous dancers, and, of course, exquisite tutus.
This week, we're going on a fashionable adventure to Paris, the heart of ballet, for the date of August 29th, 1854. We’ll learn about the glorious tutus and costumes that graced the stage of the Paris Opera. You can bet I'm going to try and track down some similar creations, and who knows, maybe I'll even snag some vintage inspiration for my own tutu wardrobe. Imagine, a collection that could take me right back to 1854 - it would be simply divine!
But before we set off to Paris, let me tell you a little bit about my current fashion obsessions. You know me, always a sucker for a beautiful outfit. Lately, I've been head over heels for the newest Parisian gowns! Their intricate beading and layers of tulle and silk are just the ticket to inspire a ballerina. I even have my eyes on a blush-pink frock that would perfectly complement my blush-pink tutu collection! I have my eye on a lovely gown by Worth, he is the most delightful couturier! Imagine it, ladies! - a tulle ballet skirt and a beautiful, ornate dress! Pure glamour.
Ah, I am so eager to tell you more about 1854, especially its magnificent dance costumes! As you know, ballet is a symphony of movement, and what better way to bring those movements to life than with the help of enchanting tutus? In those days, they still kept the basic look we know and love today. But remember, 1854 is long before the iconic tutu of Marie Taglioni that became popular just a few years later in 1839! In the middle of the 19th Century, we are talking full, dramatic and intricately designed tutus, and a real splash of colours! It was truly a time when dance costumes were as much an artistic spectacle as the performance itself! Just thinking about it makes me feel like a whirlwind of excitement. It really was all about being the very best, the ultimate showstopper!
The Paris Opera: A Whirlwind of Creativity!
For me, Paris is more than just the city of love; it’s the city of tutu! Every cobblestone street I step on, every croissant I bite into, I know that I am in the epicentre of dance.
Just imagine yourself on this date: August 29, 1854. The city of lights is alive with the buzz of excitement.
I'm standing outside the Paris Opera House, admiring the building's grandeur - think neoclassical architecture, opulent decoration, and maybe even a touch of dramatic lighting. A wave of butterflies stirs within me as I approach the grand entrance! My dear fellow tutus and ballet lovers, we are going into the ballet, and you know what I like the most: The magic starts when the music begins, and you just know the dancers will look glorious.
On the other side of those glorious doors lies a world of artistry and passion - think dramatic stage lighting, colourful backdrops, and most importantly, captivating dance sequences that are destined to ignite a passion for the art of ballet in my soul! Just waiting for that incredible opening night scene... My imagination is running wild already!
The Stars of the Ballet:
My time-travelling adventures usually have me meeting incredible people - I love the thrill of meeting influential people! Especially when they have some truly beautiful things to say about dance, fashion, and art in general! Think fashion icons, ballerinas with sparkling costumes, and captivating composers who will turn an everyday tune into a stunning dance!
Let me introduce you to the amazing dancers of 1854: We've got the amazing Marie Taglioni - just before the peak of her dancing career, although a true innovator. You could see why everyone wanted to follow in her steps! Don't forget her cousin, Lucille Grahn! Such graceful steps. We're also graced by Fanny Elssler - who is famed for the beauty of her dancing and who I was lucky enough to watch perform on my last visit! Then there is the great Carlotta Grisi. These wonderful ladies took dance to a new level, and to think they were still around at this time, still performing and inspiring. I wish I could have joined the fans, and watch them perform! Just a few moments from now, they are all in their elegant tutus and captivating costumes!
What’s In Style
Now let’s talk costumes! The big fashion statement for 1854 were the tutus themselves. A wide, voluminous skirt with many layers of soft tulle that would billow beautifully in the air when they danced. They are the perfect addition to their dance costumes, which often feature lace and embroidery to make a dazzling impression on the audience. And don't forget the colours! These women embraced the beautiful shades that danced with their costumes and matched the lighting -think of soft, pastels and vibrant, eye-catching reds and pinks. The dancewear, all with a touch of that soft pastel, with delicate embroidery and an element of sparkle. I simply love how a dance costume can bring those vibrant colours and intricate details together!
More to Come Next Week!
Remember to check in next week as we look into the ballet world for more fashion inspiration and delve into the world of the amazing Carlotta Grisi and her wonderful tutu creations. Until then, embrace the magic of tutus and wear your passion on your sleeves, or should I say, your skirt! Don't forget, my dear followers: #KeepItTutu and see you next week!
Emma x
(ps don't forget to let me know how your favourite ballet shoes, tutus and clothes are in the comments section!)
