Hello lovelies, and welcome to another fabulous #TutuTuesday! I'm your girl Emma, your ever-so-slightly pink-obsessed time-traveling ballerina blogger. Now, grab a cuppa and settle in for a real treat, because today we're waltzing back to the 1860s – a time when ballet tutus were just beginning to take centre stage!
Oh, to be in Paris...
It's always so exciting stepping off the train and into the energy of Paris! This city breathes ballet, my darlings, just as it breathes fashion. This June day in 1861 feels vibrant with the promise of exciting premieres and performances. You just know you’re in the right place, and believe me, darling, I love to be in the right place! Today, I'm thrilled to be catching a show at the opulent Palais Garnier Opera House, a spectacle of gilt and grandeur, every inch oozing glamour. But first, a bit of fashion fun!
The Tutu's Evolving Story: A 19th Century Style Statement
Picture this, my loves: imagine tutus crafted from delicate white tulle, swirling around like clouds of fairy dust. These, dear reader, are the very first examples of what would become the iconic tutu as we know it today! Back in the 1860s, ballet costumes were evolving. They still featured the romantic era's signature layers of gauze and ribbon, but things were starting to tighten, giving dancers the freedom to fly through the air with newfound grace. Think long, flowing skirts becoming shorter, revealing more leg, and adding more drama and visual impact to their steps.
A Whirlwind of Colour
Yes, tutus have gone through many glorious evolutions! Whilst the ballet dancers of today are used to shimmering pinks, striking blues, and bold reds, think elegant white when imagining the ballet tutus of this time period! These delicate wisps of tulle were all the rage – it was all about accentuating the dancer's every movement and evoking a sense of weightlessness, which truly fits the ballerina aesthetic. They were so much more feminine and romantic, reflecting the essence of the romantic era and the ethereal spirit of ballet itself.
Time for Tea!
After my delightful journey by train, I just had to stop for some French pastries at a charming café on the Champs-Élysées. Watching the elegant ladies sashay by in their chic dresses with hats that must weigh a ton! Paris truly is the world’s style hub! Speaking of style... have you seen my new pink tutu, dearies? It's absolutely to die for!
A Dance Through History
But I digress! This journey to 1861 is all about discovering how tutus became the powerful and evocative fashion icons they are today. A truly remarkable story. So, grab a little champagne (or maybe a glass of water!) and enjoy this fascinating glimpse into the world of the 1860s tutu.
What’s Happening Today?
Did you know, today is the 4th of June 1861 – a truly historical date, my darlings! This was the day the first successful underwater telegraph cable connecting Europe and America was finally installed! You bet this is quite the reason to raise a glass in celebration – can you imagine how long it took to communicate across the Atlantic before this? And now, thanks to the wonders of technology (and of course, a little bit of champagne) – it’s faster than ever before! I cannot wait to read about how this breakthrough affects life back in my own Derbyshire – you know how much I adore those vintage telegraph letters, right?!
**Join me again next #TutuTuesday as we journey through time together, one sparkly step at a time. Let's continue our quest to make the world a more pink, more tutu-filled place!
Until then, my lovely dance lovers, remember:** "Life is a stage and we are all performers – let’s dance our way through history together! Don't be shy! Let your inner tutu shine through! "
See you next week, loves!
Emma x
(P.S. Have you bought your pink tutu yet? If not, then what are you waiting for! Shop on my pink tutu website www.pink-tutu.com)
