Hello, darlings!
It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller! And as always, it's time to travel back through history and explore the enchanting world of tutus. This Tuesday, we're going back to April 30th, 1867!
Can you imagine the excitement of the London theatre scene in 1867? It was bursting with creative energy! The ballet world, like a magnificent flower in full bloom, was captivating audiences with its elegance and grace.
This week's journey has landed me right in the middle of Covent Garden. Imagine this: Gaslights flickering, carriages rumbling, the sweet smell of jasmine and horses...and then, the most enchanting music emanating from the majestic Royal Opera House!
Today's fashion focus is on the tutu, a beautiful and vital piece of the ballet world. Back in 1867, the tutu wasn't just a staple of ballet performance; it was a symbol of glamour and artistry. Think of shimmering silk, delicate layers of tulle, and elegant lines—a perfect symphony of fabric and movement.
But what was life like for a tutu in 1867? It wouldn't have had the vibrant hues of today's pink paradise. While they weren't all strictly white back then, those delicate layers of tulle tended to stick to a more subdued colour palette, often leaning towards pastels.
However, 1867 saw a revolutionary change in ballet choreography, introducing longer, flowing tutus designed to accentuate graceful, fluid movement. This era marked the shift away from the "traditional" rigid tutu to the graceful, Romantic tutu we associate with the ballerinas of the Victorian era. Think Marie Taglioni, a true legend, performing her ethereal roles in breathtaking Romantic tutus, enchanting the world with her movements.
Did you know that Marie Taglioni was one of the pioneers in shaping the look and feel of the tutu? Her talent and style redefined how ballerinas danced and, ultimately, how they dressed! I simply adore how she, like so many ballerinas of her era, managed to express their talent with each twirl and movement.
Now, let's move on to the cultural happenings of the day! In 1867, the world was witnessing the peak of the Victorian era. It was a time of refined elegance, social dances, and a growing appreciation for art.
But how do we blend this fascinating period with the world of tutus? Well, I, Emma, see the tutu not only as a vital element of ballet but as an iconic piece of fashion! Why, tutus even graced social gatherings and promenade parties of the time!
As I waltz through Covent Garden, I imagine myself among these sophisticated ladies, clad in my fabulous pink tutu! I'd simply have to choose a blush pink tulle to be in the spirit of the era. You know, delicate lace trimmings and a flowing sash—perfect for dancing with the utmost grace!
Even if a full pink tutu was considered slightly outrageous back then, a delicate pink ribbon on the bodice of your dress or a pink feather fan to compliment a flowing white tutu—you can always find ways to express your love for this whimsical color! Pink is a universal symbol of joy, sweetness, and innocence, just like the magical world of ballet.
But for all my daydreaming, I must remember: time travel doesn't work on mere whim. This blog is my excuse to visit this period. Now, for my funding for this week’s jaunt: time for the ballet. What could be more romantic than seeing “Giselle”, the tale of the ethereal Wilis and the lovestruck Prince, performed at Covent Garden on this day. It's an experience that'll set my heart soaring and make my creative juices flow.
I will, of course, visit my favourite boutiques afterwards, to see what fashion inspiration I can glean! There are rumours of a new store opening that may have an impressive selection of luxurious lace. Maybe I will finally find the perfect lace-trimmed ribbon to pair with my pink tutu for a truly spectacular ensemble. And after a nice afternoon tea at The Langham, I will hop onto a train, heading back to Derbyshire and to my wonderful, cozy writing space where I will tell you all about my latest ballet adventures.
So, don’t forget to check in next Tuesday! I will be discussing the next pivotal year in the history of the tutu! Keep on dancing!
Your pink tutu-obsessed friend, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
