Dearest readers,
Welcome back to another fabulous Tutu Tuesday here on www.pink-tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things twirling and pink! Today, I've taken a little jaunt back in time, right to the glorious year of 1866. It's been an adventure, let me tell you, especially as my darling pink tutu, "Priscilla", felt right at home among the lace and frills of the era!
Now, let's travel together to the city that breathes ballet, Paris! We're here in the very heart of it all, where dance and fashion twirl together like the most delicate of waltzes.
Why Paris? Because 1866 marked the momentous debut of The Nutcracker, Tchaikovsky's magical masterpiece! It's said to have first graced the stage of the Théâtre Impérial de l'Opéra, and while this was a slightly shorter and very different Nutcracker than the one we know today, its whimsical story and delicate music must have been truly breathtaking. Imagine, my dears, the spectacle of it all – a world of fantasy and fairies, set within a lavish, beautifully choreographed performance.
Speaking of spectacles, the tutu itself has been evolving since the early 1800s. In 1866, we find our darling tutus a little bit shorter than they would become. Think of them like tiny, beautifully crafted meringue clouds, barely skimming the dancers' knees. A charming length that allows the dancer's movements to flow freely, like a delicate butterfly dancing on the breeze.
It was a period of experimentation for the tutu. From the classic Romantic era's billowing romantic tutu to the newly evolving shorter, "pencil" tutu that allowed more agile movement, there was a definite excitement in the air! But even as they got shorter, those exquisite tutus were a beacon of romantic elegance, like a dream spun from silk and tulle!
Oh, and my dears, you must know that Paris in 1866 wasn't just about ballet, oh no! This was the city where Charles Worth, the darling of haute couture, reigned supreme, creating the most fabulous fashion of the age. The silhouette of the time was a celebration of femininity - corseted waists, billowing skirts and a touch of whimsy, mirroring the movement of a graceful dancer.
While fashion was becoming more tailored and defined, it wasn't afraid to dabble in extravagance. Imagine long, flowing gowns trimmed with delicate lace, sparkling jewels that glimmered with an almost otherworldly light, and a flourish of feathers for added drama. Fashion was a delightful language of whispers and grandeur, a language that spoke of beauty and femininity.
But enough about my glamorous discoveries in Parisian fashion. We're here for the ballet, darling, the ballet!
One of the things that captivated me in 1866 were the ballrooms! Imagine stepping into a beautifully illuminated space, the floor reflecting the soft glow of chandeliers, and the air thick with laughter, chatter, and the music of waltzes and quadrilles. Everyone dressed to the nines, with ladies sporting beautiful ball gowns and the gents dapper in their finest suits.
Of course, the most glorious part of it all was the dance. I felt like I had stepped straight out of a Jane Austen novel! Imagine the couples swirling and gliding to the delicate melody of a piano or an orchestra. There was a magic in the air, a sense of effortless elegance, and a sheer joy in the simple act of movement and music.
Even in the world of ballet itself, there was a constant push to be bigger and better! For instance, in the theatre scene itself, 1866 saw a new, massive ballet company Les Ballets Impériaux established, led by the celebrated choreographer Arthur Saint-Léon. Think of this company like the equivalent of our Royal Ballet today! The French truly understand how to create an exciting theatrical atmosphere for the performance of a masterpiece.
Speaking of grand theatres, it wouldn't be a Tutu Tuesday without me taking a look back at some of the fabulous historical costumes of the day! And my, what a delightful collection I found!
While The Nutcracker may have been born, there were other pieces playing in 1866 as well. Like Giselle, the classic tale of a young girl driven to madness by her love, a tragedy turned romantic with dancing and music. And what was the costume of the day? We had billowing tulle, romantic ruffles and, yes, those beautifully short, flowing tutus in the most gorgeous pastel shades. Think of creamy whites, the palest pinks, dreamy blues and enchanting violets, all designed to look heavenly under the spotlight and set the hearts of the audience alight.
Of course, in a fashion-conscious world like this one, there was always a focus on the artistry and detail! The ballerina's attire was a symphony of grace and elegance, a work of art designed to accentuate every move.
Now, you might wonder, my dearest readers, how do I fund all this fabulous time travel? It's all thanks to my love for ballet, and my talents for dance, of course!
Throughout my time travelling escapades, I also find opportunities to perform myself. A waltz or a ballet number here and there – sometimes even as a special guest! This allows me to get to know some of the incredible dancers of history. Just the other day, I got to chat with the amazing dancer Carlotta Grisi, one of the true legends of her time!
But don't get me wrong, darling – it’s not all glamorous performance and exciting adventures! Sometimes, I simply like to be an audience member, just a part of the crowd in awe of the spectacle and the sheer artistry of these performances.
Even when not dancing, I still find ways to express myself creatively through dress! I enjoy delving into the vintage shops and markets of each time period. Where better to shop than Paris?! There’s nothing like finding a gorgeous piece of silk, or maybe an exquisite broach for a tutu, in one of the more unique antique shops! And of course, it's a great opportunity to expand my knowledge of the history of dance and fashion – there is truly a history of everything!
And so, my lovelies, as the twilight descends over the beautiful city of Paris, I must bid you farewell for now. Until next Tutu Tuesday when I’ll delve deeper into the fascinating history of tutus!
Don't forget to share your love for the dance and everything pink, with a #TutuTuesday post on your favourite social media!
Until then, keep twirling, darlings!
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
