Oh, darlings! What a thrill it was to pop back to February 23rd, 1869! The air was positively electric with the anticipation of the ballet season, which is in full swing in Paris. And trust me, you wouldn't believe the exquisite tutus that were being unveiled.
I always feel a bit like a giddy school girl on these historical journeys - and it really wouldn't be the same without a new tutu. This week, my darling, I was absolutely delighted to discover this glorious pink tulle confection, with layers upon layers, designed to capture the air like a delicate bubble! A bit too dramatic for the everyday London stage perhaps, but darling, we are in Paris. Here, everything is on a grander scale!
The Fashion of 1869: A whirlwind of crinoline and lace! Let me tell you, the fashion of the time was both intricate and exciting! Ladies were swathed in layers of fabric, and the silhouettes were so dramatic, the kind that would make a modern-day designer weep. Oh, darling, just imagine, those sweeping crinolines and elegant ball gowns – just begging to be waltzed around the ballroom in!
Now, this week in Paris, all eyes were on the ballet performance of “La Source”, a ballet by Léo Delibes. Can you imagine the excitement of attending an original ballet! The sheer grandeur of the costumes and the elegance of the dances, just a sight to behold. My heart skipped a beat when the principal ballerina made her entrance. It was Virginia Zucchi who brought the magic of "La Source" to life. She captivated the audience with her dazzling technique and stunning costumes, not least, her tutus!
And the Tutus: Oh, darling, these were unlike anything you can imagine. We were not just seeing the shorter, stiffer tutus which are so popular nowadays, Oh, no, these tutus were more elaborate and full. Long layers and yards of beautiful silk fabric gave them this almost majestic shape! The ballerina literally danced like a swirling dream in her "tutu cloud!" And don’t even get me started on the color palette! Imagine this – pale pinks, baby blues, and even a sprinkle of vibrant emerald green. Oh, darlings, these were indeed glorious tutus!
Speaking of colours – I really have a penchant for pink, as you all know. It really does lift the mood, doesn’t it, darlings! The beautiful shade of the pink tutus this week were truly inspired, they just screamed of femininity! You can just picture the delight in the eyes of the ladies who would see these gorgeous garments twirling upon the stage!
Beyond the Tutu – I find that travelling to different time periods brings so many fascinating insights into the lives and attitudes of different eras. But, one thing I do love about this period, is the way it really championed female talent, not just on the stage but in general. The Ballet of this period celebrated women, they empowered them and were quite ahead of their time when it comes to female empowerment!
So here are my tips to really get that 1869 look.
Go all out! Forget about being shy and demure! Think grand. This look really embraces layers, lace and plenty of tulle! Oh, darling, and don’t forget a beautiful silk scarf or ribbon around your hair! This look was about looking feminine and sophisticated with a hint of drama.
*Remember to visit *www.pink-tutu.com for all your #TutuTuesday news, next week's post, and the fabulous new designs from my Tutu Collection – because of course, we couldn’t forget that you could also rock this look too! You don’t have to be a professional ballerina!
Oh darlings, until next week's #TutuTuesday adventure, I hope you enjoy these new and vintage styles! Until then, stay happy and stylish!
Your Emma from the Tutu Shop.
