Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things tutu! I'm Emma, your resident tutu enthusiast, and today, we're embarking on a whimsical journey back to the 23rd of November 1869, just before those splendid Christmas festivities begin. Grab a cuppa and your favourite pink knitwear - we're about to delve into some truly captivating ballet history!
I absolutely love travelling through time, especially when it involves a bit of tutu history, and let me tell you, finding tutus back in this time period has been an absolute delight! Whilst the tutu we know and adore, that perfectly shaped masterpiece of billowing tulle, was still in its fledgling years, we're seeing a transformation happening right before our eyes, darling!
You see, in 1869, ballet was undergoing a revolutionary shift. Gone were the days of those stiff, cumbersome skirts of the 19th century. Now, movement, grace, and pure expression were taking centre stage, and that meant finding ways to free the body – enter the tutu!
Now, don’t go imagining the voluminous, romantic tutus we adore today. Imagine something a bit more petite, a delicate whisper of tulle that gave the dancer the freedom to truly dance, to leap and twirl without constraint.
Back in the 1800s, you might have been lucky to find a little tutu-like garment with layers of light tulle at the very top, above an elaborately designed bodice. A true ballet revolution in the making!
And where was I today, you might ask? Oh darling, we took a lovely trip by train, chugging through the bustling countryside. As I admired the scenery through the train window, my mind drifted to a historical gem. You see, back in the late 1860s, our charming countryside was not the only one graced with beauty. Back in 1869, the illustrious Italian Opera graced the esteemed stage of Her Majesty's Theatre in London. The city would have been buzzing with anticipation as these elegant performances enchanted audiences with every graceful movement!
And my lovely! You know how much I love fashion, and let me tell you, the style of the day was beyond divine! The ladies wore voluminous crinolines, with flowing skirts and bodices that accented their waists. These exquisite gowns were paired with delicate gloves and dainty bonnets, complete with fluttering ribbons, making each lady look like she stepped straight out of a fairytale!
Even the gentlemen dressed with style! Their tailored frock coats were quite the spectacle, paired with elegant trousers, often with a flamboyant waistcoat peeking out from under the jacket, with their cravats creating just a touch of romanticism. The entire affair, from the grand opera performances to the dazzling fashion of the attendees, would have been a captivating spectacle!
Just imagine the elegance and excitement! Could there be a more fitting place than this for a passionate ballet devotee to time travel to? It simply couldn’t be more perfect, wouldn’t you agree? I'm so grateful for these time-travelling opportunities, for each trip grants me a chance to deepen my understanding of how the majestic world of ballet has evolved into the beauty it is today.
But let’s be real, darling, I do adore our modern-day tutu. It's a testament to fashion evolution, a symbol of graceful movement and artistry. That beautiful, airy design, a whirlwind of swirling fabric... oh my! It just takes my breath away every time!
Now, let's talk about how you can bring a little tutu magic into your own life, darling!
First, go explore those incredible vintage shops! You might just find a hidden treasure, a stunning relic from this incredible time. Think lace trim, a splash of tulle – a small piece of vintage ballet history. It’s all about bringing the essence of the era into your personal style. And let's not forget about the colours of this beautiful time. I find a pop of midnight blue can truly capture the glamour of the era, darling. Don’t be shy about mixing your vintage finds with your contemporary outfits for a touch of historical chic.
And if you're feeling creative, don’t hesitate to create a DIY tutu, a beautiful piece that embodies the free spirit of 1869. Just imagine yourself whirling through a modern-day ball, your hand-made creation a dazzling display of your love for ballet history.
As you get your tutu on this week, dear readers, don’t forget to share it with the world!
Remember, #TutuTuesday is a call to embrace all things tutu!
Show us your vibrant style, let us celebrate the beauty of ballet and all it inspires!
Until next Tuesday, darling, may your world be filled with twirling joy!
Love always,
Emma, Pink-Tutu.com
P.S. What’s your favourite tutu? I can’t wait to see it! Don’t forget to tag #PinkTutu on Instagram so we can all admire!
