Bonjour, mes amies! Welcome back to Pink Tutu, where we delve into the fascinating world of the tutu! It's #TutuTuesday again, and today we're stepping back in time to the year 1868! Just imagine: no cars, no aeroplanes, just horse-drawn carriages and the wonder of a gaslit street! Can you believe that’s the way people lived not that long ago? Now, it's off to Paris for me, the beating heart of fashion! It's simply a must to be here at this time, as I hear that The Nutcracker is about to be debuted in just a few years. Imagine a Christmas story with fairies and snowflakes... it’s sure to be exquisite!
As a dedicated tutu historian (and dedicated wearer!), I simply have to uncover what those ballerinas were dancing in all those years ago.
A Time When Pink was Peach
It's so funny! You wouldn't believe the shades of "pink" back then. They'd call it “rose,” “flesh,” and even "pink beige”! I have to say, I find them all terribly dull! What happened to vibrant fuchsia and shocking pink?! Thankfully, my personal tutu collection, overflowing with modern pink shades, helps me to make the right statement, wherever I go!
Fashionable Favourites
This time, ladies, it's all about layers and ruffles! Remember, we're still in the era of the Romantic Ballet. Gone are the days of the long, billowing skirts that practically dragged on the ground - it's about airy lightness and showcasing every graceful step!
The ballerinas of the 1860s are dazzling the world in these key styles:
The Romantic Tutu: Think billowing tiers of tulle with a tighter bodice that highlights the graceful lines of the ballerina’s physique. The romantic style was created around the same time as tutus made their appearance in the early 1830s! This was revolutionary! Gone were the long skirts of the day – they went wa-wa to free up movement. Think swirling layers of gauzy fabric for effortless steps, with just a little puff to give that dreamy and delicate look! I love it!
The Fille Mal Gardée Tutu: Now this one is my personal favourite for its delightful playfulness! It was made for the story! It tells the tale of a carefree girl from the country. Imagine - a ballerina with all those charming layers! We see charming little peasant-like accents, and ruffles and puffs galore! Oh, how it’s brimming with the youthful joy and mischievousness of the story. A must see, girls! You have to add it to your to-do list!
The Whimsical Potager Tutu: Imagine! The potager tutu literally translates to the “garden tutu"! It brings the beauty of the French countryside directly to the stage. I can practically smell the fresh-picked lavender and herbs. I find it delightful how designers created layers of tulle to mimic the shape of flowering plants and even added bits of natural materials to reflect the garden scene. I absolutely must wear one next time I visit a beautiful, sunny garden!
The Story Behind The Show
This week is all about Le Corsaire, a show that brings pirates, adventure, and tutu galore to life. Imagine it, girls: a show featuring a handsome and rebellious pirate! Can you picture all that dramatic, dashing energy! Le Corsaire premiered in Paris in 1856 and features a plot about beautiful enslaved girls who have a romantic escape. A must see in this city. Oh! It reminds me of that lovely pink silk sash I just bought for my personal tutu collection! Just imagine how lovely that would look paired with a romantic tulle skirt – absolutely dreamy!
Pink for You!
Oh, before I forget – just imagine what this city would be like if everyone embraced pink. Why wear only black or grey when you could radiate such a joyful, charming and fabulous colour! It elevates even the simplest outfit. You all must promise to find something pink to wear this week – I truly believe it will make your week so much better!
Remember, my darlings, that tutus are not just for dancers! We wear them to the ballet, of course, but they can be incorporated into any occasion. We can even wear a little pink tutu when going on a day trip! Just imagine: A train ride through the countryside, complete with fluffy ruffles, perfect for a delightful pink picnic in the sunshine!
As ever, remember to come by next week, my darling tutu enthusiasts, for another fabulous post all about these delightful dresses. Until then, stay fabulous and make sure to #PinkItUp as you get about your week.
