Hello my dearest tutu lovers! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast, bringing you another installment of your favourite #TutuTuesday blog. Grab a cuppa and settle in, because this week, we're whisking back to the fabulous year 1863!
This week, I've decided to head to the bustling, fashionable capital of Paris, a city that's simply bursting with all things stylish and captivating! The Parisian dance scene is quite the spectacle, full of exquisite ballerinas and gentlemen dressed to the nines. This date in history was particularly vibrant as the French Opera Ballet held a special performance - La Source. Can you imagine? Just picture the stage lit by flickering candles, delicate tutus swirling in the air, and the glorious sounds of the orchestra!
So, you might be wondering - what is so special about this January 27th? Well, my dearest readers, the beauty of tutus, while always a delight, wasn't fully embraced in 1863! I must admit, I was rather dismayed by this fact. Back then, it wasn't as common as we know it today, as the "romantic" era of ballet had ended, and a more classical aesthetic had started to take shape. The elegant ballerina was replaced by a more "dramatic" one - quelle horreur! Tutus were still worn, but they were much more simple and structured, nothing quite as fabulous as our contemporary creations.
That being said, while there may have been a dearth of frilly pink tutu bliss, Parisian fashion itself was bursting with creativity. Women wore extravagant crinolines and bustling skirts. The Victorian era is synonymous with grandeur and refinement, with women focusing on the beauty of embellishment and fine fabrics. Think lavish fabrics like silks, satins and lace, adorned with elaborate trims and rich colours. Oh how I wish I could steal a vintage piece or two from that era!
During my travels, I simply must admire the fashion! Even with a touch less tutu in the air, it was wonderful to see the beauty in the Parisian clothing culture of that time. I even noticed that there was a certain flair and charm in the costumes of the opera ballet - though simple compared to modern designs, they still offered a sense of drama and grandeur. The colour palette used was also exquisite! They favoured rich, deep hues and tones, reflecting a refined sensibility that remains incredibly stylish even today!
While my mission is to spread the gospel of pink tutus around the world (you know, to inspire a bit more joy and sparkle!), I must confess that I couldn't resist joining in on the Victorian fashion game this week. My dear reader, it was positively delightful! Imagine - a full skirt made from layers and layers of beautiful silk, complete with lace trim, adorned with a delicate silk ribbon cinched at the waist! The sensation was something out of a dream, and it reminded me how truly inspiring fashion is.
On the way back, the train ride was the perfect opportunity for contemplation, I must say. The sights of the Parisian countryside gliding by as I settled into the soft carriage reminded me that, while we all embrace the present, it's important to remember our history, for history is always repeating itself in one way or another! From the exquisite detail in Victorian costumes to the playful drama in 19th century ballet, there are lessons in every era - lessons about fashion, creativity and above all - the joy of expressing ourselves through dance and fashion.
So, dear tutu lovers, next time you're twirling, do consider your historical inspiration! Every ballerina, whether on stage or in their own little corner of the world, is part of a story. That’s it from me for today! I'm off to practice some ballet barre exercises and find the most dazzling pink tutu for next week's #TutuTuesday!
As always, don’t forget to share your #TutuTuesday pictures! Keep twirling,
Emma
