Bonjour, darling dears! Your favourite tutu-clad time traveller Emma is back, fresh from a delightful jaunt to Paris, and ready to whisk you away on another captivating journey through the history of ballet! Today's #TutuTuesday delves into the era of 1864 - a year brimming with both grace and intrigue! Oh, and did I mention, it's a real gem for fashion-forward tutus!
I was sipping on a très chic French coffee this morning when I saw it on my Parisian time-traveling calendar - May 31st, 1864! I thought to myself, Emma, my darling, how could you forget this fabulous day! * You see, it's the anniversary of the first performance of the groundbreaking ballet "Coppélia"! This stunning work by Léo Delibes has had the entire world on pointe with its exquisite costumes and breathtaking choreography. Did you know? It featured the very first time the 'white act' (ballerina in white tulle) appeared! My heart skipped a beat! Talk about groundbreaking for the time, darling! Just imagine - a ballerina floating through the air in a froth of tulle, oh so angelic and ethereal...simply *magnifique!
But hold onto your hats, darlings! Let's take a closer look at where the ballet world stood at this enchanting time... I've travelled by train and brought back some fabulous sartorial delights - just imagine!
1864 - A World of Tutus, Feathers, and Romance:
Firstly, let me tell you - the 1860s were a time of glorious grandeur when it came to tutus! It was all about flowing layers, romanticism, and of course, a liberal dash of feathers. Think perfectly poised, wispy tulle cascading down to the ankles - quite the sight to behold, if you ask me. You know I can't resist a good flutter of fabric, and these 1860s ballerinas were quite the fluttery delight!
The tutu silhouette, if you can believe it, had taken a sharp turn towards what we know as the "Romantic Tutu" in this period - a delightful evolution from the earlier styles, I might say. Now, this beauty featured shorter skirts with more layers of delicate netting, creating an airy and airy fairy effect. The result? A whirlwind of graceful motion - simply breathtaking!
Now, my loves, the true pièce de résistance when it comes to ballet costume design at this time was none other than the bodice - or as they called it then, "corsage" - think fitted and charmingly corseted! With its fitted shape and low neckline, it emphasized the feminine form like a blooming flower, yet still allowed freedom of movement.
Just think of it, darling - an elegant silhouette, a whisper of tulle, and a touch of Parisian flair, all culminating in a dance that truly captured the imagination. That's the magic of ballet in 1864!
Now, this being a #TutuTuesday post, naturally, I have to spill the tea on how to channel your inner 1860s ballerina right now - you don't have to hop in a time machine, darling, although I must admit it's awfully tempting. All you need is a dose of imagination and some tulle!
Here's the trick: find a skirt made of soft, flowing tulle (no scratchy fabrics here!) - you want it long enough to reach your ankles, just like a real ballerina's skirt. For the bodice, I recommend a simple fitted top that accentuates the waist - think fitted t-shirt or a silk camisole - you know, something that'll make you feel absolutely radiant!
Now for a splash of that Parisian romance - feathers! You can find feathers at any good craft store or online - try a couple of delicate ostrich plumes or maybe a few fluffy boas. And to top it all off, a crown of flowers or a sparkling hairband will add a touch of ethereal charm - a touch of the magical "Coppélia"!
Trust me, darling, this ensemble will turn heads! I know my tutu-loving heart goes aflutter at the mere thought of a pink romantic tutu! Do try to remember, it's all about that delightful combination of effortless style and grace. I, of course, love my pink tulle. This style of romantic tutu is one of the best styles - it has such femininity - and the length just means it flows magnificently!
Oh, my dears, do remember - this isn't about exact historical replica, but embracing the spirit of ballet! Every woman is a beautiful ballerina at heart. Just add a sprinkle of whimsy and you'll be swirling through your day like a true ballet enchantress. Now go forth and wear your pink tutu with pride!
Onwards, darling, to a world where ballet is an everyday affair and the pink tutu reigns supreme!
With twirls and smiles,
Emma, Your #TutuTuesday time traveler
P.S Don't forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com for more fabulous time-traveling tutu adventures, fashion finds, and all things pink, darling!
