Post #1953
Bonjour from the City of Lights, darling readers! Emma here, your favourite tutu-clad time traveller, landing back in Paris with my trusty time machine (it's actually a rather fetching, pink steam train – quite the conversation starter at the station!). This week's #TutuTuesday takes us right back to the glorious, exciting year of 1869, a time when Parisian fashion was simply the pièce de résistance!
The "Crinoline" Craze
Imagine, ladies, you can't possibly have a "conversation" about fashion back then without mentioning the majestic Crinoline! These massive, billowing skirts, designed with layers of horsehair or wire hoops, gave ladies a real air of elegance and a silhouette as big and dramatic as the Eiffel Tower (which wouldn't exist for another two decades!). Think of the magnificent floral patterns, the velvet accents, the endless possibilities for ruffles and trimmings! It's all so very dreamy, darlings!
But what about ballet, you ask? Well, my dears, even the "serious" world of ballet felt the pull of those massive Crinoline trends. Now, we all know tutus, even our beloved pink ones, weren't quite "a thing" back then. Ballet dancers favoured rather more… shall we say "conservative" costumes? Imagine flowing gowns, fitted bodices and even some rather impractical panniers making it hard for the girls to execute those grand leaps and graceful pirouettes!
The Birth of the Ballerina's Tutu
Luckily, darling readers, 1869 also marks a monumental year in the evolution of ballet fashion: the introduction of the tutu. While it wouldn't look quite like what we wear today, this early version, named the Romantic Tutu, offered a glimpse of the revolution to come. These tutus were still made with layers of netting and were worn rather "longer," reaching the knee, unlike our darling modern versions that float freely! I'm sure those elegant dancers in Paris made quite the impression at the Grand Opera House on this day, and you know I can’t wait to try out this Parisian chic style at the ballet classes in London next week! Just imagine: a Parisian style, but with a British touch, a dash of Derbyshire!
The Fashion Fix of 1869:
While exploring the wonders of Parisian streets on June 1st, 1869, it's imperative to indulge in some sartorial shopping, wouldn't you say? After all, who can resist the allure of Parisian boutiques and the magic of trying on delightful "Walking Dresses." Just imagine: a chic skirt in rich colours of purple, teal, and green. Perhaps adorned with lace, sequins, or a touch of that Parisian "je ne sais quoi," these gowns could make any lady feel truly elegant!
Then there’s the " Bonnet" craze - you can’t be a Parisian fashionista without one of these gorgeous accessories! The delicate hats, in shades of coral and lavender, were embellished with luxurious feathers, ribbons and bows, and were worn with pride. They were truly a statement piece that truly exemplified the fashion sense of 1869 Paris!
Now, I have a little secret to share! Did you know that June 1st, 1869 saw a truly enchanting event: The Paris Opera Ball. Can you picture it, my darlings? A whirlwind of beautiful women adorned in elaborate dresses, dazzling jewelry, and the men in their sharp suits, with that timeless Parisian air of elegance! And, to my great delight, those beautiful women may have already been rocking those beautiful “Romantic Tutues" on the dancefloor, hinting at a new, beautiful era of dancing in elegant style! Oh, wouldn't that be a sight to behold?
Time Travel Notes:
- The train journey from Derbyshire to Paris took almost an entire day!
- In 1869, London had its first subway! (Quite the novelty!)
- People in Paris loved to visit the Palais Garnier – it was a truly incredible cultural centre for performances, socialising, and yes, lots of fashion!
*Until next Tuesday, darlings, remember: * Every day is a reason to twirl!
Yours truly,
Emma
