Hello lovelies! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you off to a world of tutus and tiaras. This week we're heading back to 1870 - a time of crinoline, corsets and... wait for it... the early beginnings of the tutu we know and love!
Buckle up, darling, this ride is about to get exciting. You've got to love a bit of train travel, haven't you? Nothing quite beats settling down in a plush carriage, a good book in hand and, of course, a dash of pink in my attire. That's right, a pink bow in my hair - a necessity when traversing time.
As I'm typing this post, I'm actually perched in a carriage making my way to Paris. Oh, it's always a pleasure to arrive in Paris, with its grand cafes and bustling avenues. The city simply oozes fashion and I wouldn't be a true tutu aficionado without visiting.
Speaking of tutus... let's dive into some historical haute couture.
Back in 1870, ballet tutus were quite a bit different than our modern, airy delights. Imagine a skirt - still full and frilly, but heavier and less airy. You'd be seeing plenty of multiple layers of stiff fabric, all sewn to create a stiff, structured silhouette. We’re talking about fabrics like taffeta, satin and silk - certainly lovely, but not your modern stretch mesh!
Now, imagine this... long, full tutus sweeping across the stage, showcasing dancers in intricate movements. We are talking classical ballet. This was the era of ballerinas who possessed amazing power and control - each graceful turn and dramatic jump a testament to their physical strength.
What were ballerinas like in 1870? Oh my, picture graceful figures with porcelain skin and long, flowing locks. They embodied the romanticised, ethereal figure, dancing with such elegance and refined poise that one can't help but be entranced.
One thing to note about this time is that fashion influenced ballet quite heavily. Just as fashion designers played with shapes and colours, so did ballet choreographers! Remember, it wasn't only the tutu that dictated fashion! Think elegant hairstyles, intricate corsages and perfectly fitting ballet shoes - the whole image was just as vital.
Now, September 20th, 1870... what’s on the agenda, you ask?
Well, if you’re in Paris, be sure to head to the Opéra Garnier, where you'll likely catch a ballet performance. This stunning theatre, a real jewel of Parisian architecture, was still relatively new. Imagine being among the first to experience its majestic atmosphere!
Don't forget about the fashionable shops lining the streets. Paris was, and still is, the centre of the world's most exquisite fashions. Take a peek into their windows and let your imagination wander... perhaps the fabric for your next tutu is hiding within!
And while you're in the heart of France, don't forget to soak in the culture. A stroll along the Champs-Élysées, a cup of coffee at a charming café, or a trip to the Louvre, - what a beautiful blend of art and culture.
So there you have it, darlings! The tutu-filled journey through the 1870s.
As you enjoy your day, I encourage you to imagine yourself in that elegant Parisian world - all swirling tutus, graceful movement and dazzling spectacle.
Stay tuned for more #TutuTuesday adventures next week, as I embark on another incredible journey through time. Remember, always embrace your inner ballerina - no matter where you are, or when!
Until then, stay beautiful, and keep that pink tutu ready to whirl!
Yours always,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
