Hello darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, here, back with another instalment of my #TutuTuesday blog. Today, we're waltzing back in time to the 14th of March 1871. Now, before we get swept away in a whirl of history, let me just say: a good train journey is an essential ingredient for any successful time traveller. (And let's face it, the Victorian carriages, while certainly more romantic than their modern-day counterparts, could be a little cramped!)
Paris, Je T’aime!
This week, I've landed myself right in the heart of Parisian ballet, oh la la! Now, the 1870s were a blooming era for dance. In Paris, the iconic Palais Garnier Opera House, with its breathtaking grandeur, was practically bursting at the seams with theatrical magic. Imagine, ladies and gentlemen, an entire house packed to the rafters, shimmering with jewels and lace, while a stage lights up with breathtaking beauty! I do wish they had air conditioning, though, for the sake of those poor ballerinas under all those layers.
What Makes a Tutu So Special?
Tutus - the ultimate symbol of grace and elegance, just like me! In 1871, while the romantic style still reigned, the silhouette was evolving. The classic pancake tutu, with its layers of stiff, starched tulle, had emerged, creating a more airy and elegant effect. Imagine delicate tulle dancing in the air, like spun sugar, as the ballerinas pirouetted! (I’m adding this to my tutu shopping list as we speak).
And what about those colour palettes? Oh my! While white remained the staple, there were splashes of colour, bringing a vivacious life to the dance floor. Think fiery reds, luscious pinks, and captivating blues, perfect for catching the eye of any nobleman in the audience. Oh, wouldn’t it be delightful to twirl on stage in one of those exquisite numbers?
More than Just Pretty Feathers
However, 14th March 1871 wasn’t all about fluttering tutus, of course. The French were still dealing with the aftermath of their war with Prussia. In a funny twist of fate, even then, amidst political turmoil and social change, there was a clear hunger for beauty and grace. Ballet, with its artistry and symbolism, became a refuge, a place to escape and find solace. Perhaps we could all do with a little ballet in our lives these days too.
My Tutu Tuesday Look:
I'm channelling 19th century Parisian chic in a blush pink tulle tutu (with a delicate touch of feather trim, naturally), topped with a dainty silk bodice and a perfectly fitted jacket with a charming lace collar. Don't forget the essential pink velvet ribbon tied with a bow on top!
What are you Wearing?
Don't forget to post your own #TutuTuesday pics, and let's celebrate the beautiful history of the ballet tutu together! And do drop me a line in the comments – what are your thoughts on this glorious time period? I'm simply dying to know!
Till next Tuesday, darlings, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
#TutuTuesday #BalletHistory #TimeTravel #FashionBlogger #ParisianStyle
(This post is number 2046!)
Stay tuned next Tuesday for more tutus, travels and timeless fashion!
