Hello, darlings! Emma here, back with another installment of Tutu Tuesday! Today, I'm pulling out the time-traveling train ticket and zipping back to February 23rd, 1864. You might think tutus weren't a thing back then, but you'd be oh so wrong! We're stepping into a fascinating time for dance fashion.
London, Sweet London!
It's a chilly February morning in London. The crisp air has a hint of spring in it, promising warmer days soon. Today's all about a grand soirée, an evening of dance at Covent Garden! It’s a privilege to experience ballet here at its birthplace – and in 1864, the heart of the theatre world is alive with excitement and elegance.
I'm rocking my pink tulle tutu – the fluffier, the better, wouldn't you say? My silk shoes are a delicate blush colour to match. A bit of a departure from the traditional white that we see in ballet today, but oh, so fabulous.
Tutus in Bloom
The stage is a vibrant whirlwind of colour! The ballerinas are dancing in costumes of vibrant hues, like lush floral arrangements brought to life. You’ll see swirling crimson, royal blue, and an abundance of golden yellow. It’s a complete contrast to the streamlined, single-colour looks we see today. I find this explosion of colour absolutely enchanting!
The tutus themselves have just started to take on the iconic form we recognise today. Imagine billowing layers of tulle that create a truly airy and whimsical feel. They're much more extravagant, too, flowing with layers of elaborate embroidery and decorative elements. Think lace, ribbons, even tiny flowers sewn into the fabric. Imagine it – your imagination runs wild.
But don't forget the panniers, darlings! This petticoat structure – imagine a more extravagant hoop skirt for ballet – is key to giving the tutus their graceful silhouette. It's quite a feat of fashion engineering.
Beyond the Stage
Outside of the ballet world, fashion is undergoing a revolution, just as we are today! The influence of ballet can even be felt in the broader fashion world. Imagine the romantic styles and the blossoming colours that are filtering through - a testament to the timeless power of this beautiful art form.
It's such a lovely time for women's fashion in London, where I love browsing the ateliers, looking for exquisite new gowns and hats to match.
The Heart of Ballet
What a pleasure to see such a passion for dance flourishing right before my eyes. The crowds are roaring with applause after the show, filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the breathtaking performance. It's truly a delight!
But you know, beyond the glitter and glamour, what truly gets my heart pumping is that timeless beauty of ballet – the graceful movement, the artistry of expression, the pure joy. The real inspiration of the tutu!
And darling, isn't it delightful that tutus, in all their frothy glory, have found a place not only in theatre, but in everyday lives, from ballet classes to street performances. This kind of widespread appreciation is just fantastic!
Time To Go
Unfortunately, my time machine's beeping - it's time for me to zip back to my present day. But let's all celebrate our own love of the tutu, no matter what year it is! Remember to share your pink-tutu photos on social media using #TutuTuesday – you know, every Tuesday, just like we love doing!
Keep those pink tutus twirling!
Much love,
Emma xx
