#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1868-03-03

Oh darling, it’s Tutu Tuesday again! 🩰

Can you believe it's already March 3rd, 1868? I simply must tell you all about the fascinating journey I took this week – right back to the glorious Victorian era! I'm sure you're just bursting with questions, so grab your cuppa, put on your favourite tutu, and let's step back in time!

As a Derbyshire girl through and through, I had a lovely train ride to London, gazing out at the changing landscape and dreaming of all the enchanting things I was about to discover. This city, a haven of elegance and opulence, was a dancer’s paradise in the Victorian era. Think bustling theatres, graceful performances, and beautiful clothes! The scent of lilac in the air and the clink of horses’ hooves on the cobblestones - simply divine!

I made my way straight to Covent Garden, a hub of excitement and artistic energy. The theatre, a beautiful architectural gem, had just finished an exquisite performance of the legendary Giselle. The music still reverberated in my soul! And don’t even get me started on the costumes! I was simply swept away by the beautiful ballet tutus of the day - delicate layers of tulle and ribbons that shimmered like moonlight.

I dashed to a milliner, mesmerized by the bonnets and fascinators. I picked a pretty, pink, feather-trimmed creation, perfectly fitting for a lovely afternoon tea with friends. What else would you do in London but chat, share a little gossip, and talk about the most recent theatrical news!

The Victorians were so elegant, with their billowing skirts, corsets, and top hats. But I must tell you, those petticoats could be a tad cumbersome, even for a seasoned ballerina! I imagine them trying to perform a pirouette with all those layers - what a sight! It’s a wonder they even made it onto the stage, never mind to the stalls. I think that's why ballet tutus were starting to become a bit shorter and more simplified at the time, making those leaps and turns much easier!

Of course, nothing says "elegant" quite like a stunning satin gown in the finest hues of plum or teal. The women were all so beautiful! You see, their attire was an expression of their personalities, their tastes, and their social status. And for me, the dress makes the woman.

Oh, and let's not forget about the jewels! Diamonds, emeralds, rubies… a glittering feast for the eyes. The jewels sparkled like twinkling stars on a dark night, making every glance an exciting journey to another land!

Of course, nothing could match the elegance of my bright pink tutu - you can't miss me, darling, even in a crowd of beautifully dressed people! It really helps me blend in at a tea shop while I catch up with the local news about all the important things going on! I also loved spending some time in the gorgeous department stores. All the colourful fabric, the luxurious velvet, the delicate silks – it was like a kaleidoscope of beauty. Although pink hadn't really become that big in those days, you could still find it lurking here and there, a secret delight waiting to be found. I discovered a beautiful pink velvet sash – imagine it as a trim for a tutu! What a fabulous statement that would be! My time travel efforts are quite costly, you know, but all that beauty has its rewards.

The world of fashion was so captivating in the 1860s, but it was just as much about the people. I met some delightful ladies at a millinery, learning about their lives, hopes, and dreams. I told them all about tutus and they seemed so charmed! I'm slowly spreading the word, one pink tutu at a time.

I also went to a dance academy. What fun to watch the students practice and learn. I loved seeing their energy, their commitment to perfection, and their sheer joy of movement. I danced a few turns myself and oh my, the tutus these days, oh so pretty. I imagined myself spinning and twirling like the graceful ballerinas in the grand theatre and felt an irresistible urge to go shopping for new pink tutu supplies!

On my return journey, sitting back in the carriage and watching the landscape fade away, I felt truly grateful. I was lucky enough to have journeyed back in time to such a pivotal moment in dance history. Perhaps I had even been the very first time traveler to be wearing a pink tutu. I wonder what that might mean! I can’t wait to share another amazing tale with you next Tuesday, my darling! Until then, spread a little tutu joy! 💖

Remember, always dance like no one is watching…but, secretly, I’m always watching! Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com!