Greetings, darlings! Emma here, your trusty Tutu-ologist, back with another blast from the past for your #TutuTuesday enjoyment. This week, I'm twirling my way to July 5th, 1859, so grab your teacups and let's dive into the ballet world as it was then!
Post #1436
A Time Traveler's Diary:
I’ve been hopping around on the London stage this week – oh, what a glorious city! And, my dears, I discovered the most fantastic little shop tucked away on a cobbled street near the theatres. Imagine: feathers, sequins, tulle, all colours of the rainbow – and, of course, enough pink to make my heart sing! I was practically hopping with excitement – this is what dreams are made of!
Today's date takes us right back to the golden age of ballet, before the modern styles you see in the Bolshoi and the Paris Opera Ballet. You wouldn’t catch a ballerina pirouetting in the long, full tutus you see me in, darling! It wasn't all that long ago that tutus were… shudder… much shorter! Imagine a mini tutu, almost like a frock – a bit like a frilly party dress, just imagine it in bright pink!
A Brief History:
You see, the iconic "tutu" we know and love didn’t come to fruition until around the 1880s – oh la la! Imagine how boring those early ballets must have looked with these dainty little skirts, like a frothy dessert compared to the majestic creations we adore today!
Fashion and Fun!
But even in 1859, fashion was making a statement in the world of ballet. Those skirts were often layered with a whole cascade of colourful fabric, ribbons, and even little trinkets. Imagine a kaleidoscope of patterns swirling around the stage! They even incorporated those little puffs that looked like powdered sugar - think of how those puffs swirled when they did a grand jeté! The sheer variety and beauty were captivating.
I spotted the lovely Madame Celeste in a fabulous red dress - it practically radiated her performance, making her feel so royal and powerful on the stage! And can we just admire the grace of all the ladies? Every graceful glide and graceful leap brought to mind the ethereal flutter of a butterfly! They certainly knew how to showcase their beauty – not to mention that magnificent talent!
The Star of the Stage
Of course, the centre of the ballet world in 1859 was none other than the glorious Royal Opera House! There, a little bird told me that today’s big performance stars Marie Taglioni, a world-renowned ballerina – an icon for many a time traveler and aspiring ballerina like me. Imagine being a star who’s revered by people across the centuries! I can practically see the excitement in the audience’s eyes!
This evening, I'll be taking in the enchanting spectacle of “Giselle”, a dramatic story that has taken the world by storm. It’s just a quick hop down to the theatre and then – oh, darling – just to see the beautiful sets, the stunning costumes and those exquisite movements! Ballet in 1859 is as mesmerising as it was in the Victorian Era!
Tutu Twists and Trends:
And you know, even those 1859 ladies weren't afraid to experiment with different silhouettes! Some danced in skirts that cascaded to their knees, others favoured a dramatic bell shape. Think of it as the Victorian-era fashion version of what we now see in the ballet: an amazing explosion of creative styles and innovative designs. I hear tell there were even tiny “skirts” for the men's ballet costumes in 1859. So, let’s raise a glass to the fearless trendsetters of the ballet!
A Tutu Tale for You:
Now, darlings, this is what I love most about traveling through history: those timeless themes that connect us all. Whether in 1859 or 2023, a ballerina steps on stage, hearts are captured, stories are told, and dreams take flight! You know, it’s why I think everyone should experience the beauty of ballet, especially when it's wrapped up in a gorgeous, graceful pink tutu.
Until Next Time:
Well, darlings, I’m off to witness the grand ballet for myself. But before I leave, remember: wear your heart on your sleeve, twirl with joy, and always embrace the magic of a pink tutu.
Stay fabulous,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. My friends, as I prepare to jump back to my time, I must share this exciting news: This Wednesday I'm venturing off to the world's grandest museum of fashion – you'll be reading all about my finds next week, and you won’t want to miss out! I've got a big shopping trip planned, just wait for my “From the Runway” column - I'm going to bring you all the secrets!
