Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back with another instalment of #TutuTuesday for you. This week, we're whisked away to the elegant, exciting world of Parisian ballet in October 1861.
The Year of the Tutu?
Let me tell you, the year 1861 is like stepping into a romantic, theatrical dreamscape! The tutus worn on stage are getting shorter, lighter and more graceful, embracing the era’s emphasis on femininity and fluidity. Imagine layers and layers of delicate tulle, all floating like a cloud around a ballerina’s legs!
From Empire Waistlines to the Tulle Skirt:
Remember, we are at the dawn of the modern tutu. Before the 1800s, dancers were much more constrained in stiff, corseted clothing. Imagine how restricting that would be for a leap or a pirouette! But, with the coming of the Romantics and a passion for movement, skirts became less rigid. Think of the graceful, draped skirts from Ancient Greek statues – those are the inspirations we see flowing down to our tutu ancestors!
This early Victorian era is all about the graceful movements of the body. The tutu is becoming synonymous with elegance, and even women off-stage are being influenced by the ballerina’s new style! Shorter skirts with hoop skirts to add volume are in vogue. We’re even seeing some “tutu-inspired” additions like feathers and floral trims to our fashionable attire. Oh, it’s all so romantic!
A Royal Tutu Adventure:
To celebrate the new wave of tutu loveliness, I must travel to Paris, the heart of the fashionable world. Today, I’m planning to see La Sylphide, a ballet that is taking Paris by storm. They say the tutus are simply exquisite! There’s nothing I love more than seeing a grand theatre performance, the stage aglow with the vibrant colors and energy of a magnificent dance spectacle.
And of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the opulent Galeries Lafayette. Can you imagine the stunning fabric shops there, overflowing with the most exquisite tulle, lace, and satin? Just thinking about it makes my heart flutter with anticipation! Maybe I'll even treat myself to a new, pink tutu! After all, the best part of travelling is finding new fashions!
Tutu Tips:
This month, try incorporating elements of the Victorian Era tutu into your style:
- Embrace a Flowy Skirt: A simple tulle skirt is the perfect way to inject some feminine charm into your everyday outfits! Imagine pairing a bright pink skirt with a delicate white blouse and a simple jacket – instant elegance, darlings!
- Layer on the Accessories: Flowers, ribbons, and feathers can bring a touch of that Romantic spirit to your looks. A single pink flower tucked behind the ear, or a graceful satin ribbon tied around the waist – every detail counts!
- Keep it Romantic: Opt for soft colours like pastels and white. I like a light pink and grey ensemble, so classic and delicate!
Remember, the tutu is more than just a piece of clothing, it's a symbol of freedom, artistry, and femininity.
*Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com and follow my adventures with #TutuTuesday! *I’m off now, chuffed to pieces about seeing that new performance of La Sylphide!
See you next week darlings! And until then, wear your pink tutus with pride!
Love,
Emma
P.S. I'm currently fundraising to keep my time-travelling adventures going! Would you believe the train fare alone is quite pricey, but that's how much I love a good vintage ballet show! If you want to contribute to my time travel budget and see the best ballet shows through the ages, visit the 'donate' tab on my site, www.pink-tutu.com. Every contribution, big or small, helps me to keep this tutu-rific blog going! You won't regret it! x
