Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu-wearing time traveller, back for another captivating journey through ballet history! As you know, we always embark on these voyages on a Tuesday, to celebrate all things tutu-tastic. 😉 And today, my dears, we're whisking ourselves back to 18 November 1856, a most exciting time in balletland, if I do say so myself.
So buckle up your dainty slippers, grab a cup of tea, and prepare to be transported!
Now, picture this: 1856 London, the air buzzing with the anticipation of a grand opera performance. This era is filled with romantic, swirling melodies and elaborate costumes – think ruffles, layers upon layers, and just a hint of sparkle, all to reflect the exquisite beauty and grandeur of the music. Ballet was experiencing a renaissance, darling, and tutus were the star of the show. They were the epitome of elegance, a symbol of feminine grace, and every bit as thrilling as a pirouette en pointe!
But, hold onto your tiaras, dears, because tutus haven’t always been the frothy, ethereal creations they are today! Before this period, they were far less, shall we say, romantic. Think billowing, cumbersome skirts, heavy fabrics, and frankly, not very easy for a graceful ballerina to flit around in. Imagine trying to do a jeté with a huge, bulky skirt clinging to your legs! A nightmare, my dear, a nightmare!
But fret not, because it's 1856 and we are on the cusp of change! The tutus you see today, darling, began their evolution, becoming lighter, more comfortable, and more expressive for those lovely ballerinas dancing upon the stage. The fabric used started to change, lighter materials allowing for greater movement and captivating visual appeal. And wouldn’t you know it, pink tutus began making an appearance! Imagine the sheer beauty, the sweetness, the captivating charm. I'm almost swooning just thinking about it!
But, remember darlings, even in these revolutionary times, tutus were not a given, not for everyone. They were reserved for specific ballet performances and roles, typically played by those lovely, elegant ballerinas, oh so graceful in their exquisite dancing. You’d often find a bevy of dancers gracing the stage in the most lavish dresses – velvet, silk, and lace aplenty! A beautiful visual feast!
And what better time to celebrate these iconic dresses than on this very date? 18 November 1856 saw the much-anticipated opening of the brand new Royal Opera House, a triumph of architecture and artistry that continues to delight and enchant us today! Talk about a glittering opening night! You can imagine the stunning décor, the excitement in the air, and the glamorous attendees clad in the most elegant of outfits.
You can just imagine my little heart overflowing with delight. The exquisite music, the glorious dancing, and, of course, the oh-so-elegant and breathtaking tutus! It’s the perfect recipe for a delightful and unforgettable evening, wouldn't you agree, darlings?
Today, as I wander the cobblestone streets of this captivating city, I imagine what the scene must have been like back then. I can almost hear the sweet melodies of a violin, feel the hushed anticipation of the audience as the curtain rises, and catch a glimpse of those shimmering tutus as they pirouette gracefully under the spotlight. It’s a vision, darlings, a delightful and captivating dream come true!
My, what a day! I could truly chat about 1856 ballet for hours. So tell me darlings, what are your thoughts on tutus from this era? Have I inspired you to give tutus a try, or perhaps, to take a peek at the gorgeous tutus on display at a ballet performance near you?
Remember darlings, fashion is a journey, a chance to explore your own unique style and find your personal magic. And always, always, choose a colour that brings a smile to your face. And for me, darling, it’s always, always, the sparkling beauty of pink that takes the lead.
Until next Tuesday, keep twirling, my dears, keep twirling! 💖
Emma, www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. Don't forget to join the fun! Snap a pic of your favourite tutu moment and share it on Instagram with the hashtag #TutuTuesday! Let's fill the internet with all things tutu-tastic! 🩰 💕
