Hello, my lovelies! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back with another trip down ballet's history lane! Today, we're twirling all the way back to December 31st, 1872! Can you imagine? No electric lights, no mobile phones, just gaslight and carriage rides! 🕰️
But let's talk tutus, darlings! What were the ballerinas wearing in 1872? Well, let me tell you, it was all about elegance and precision. You see, tutus were just beginning to blossom into the iconic dancewear we know and love today. The full-length romantic tutus were still very much the rage. Think flowing layers of tulle, like a delicate cloud, but with a little more structure and less poufy. Imagine a tutu that falls like a beautiful, graceful cascade around the ballerina’s legs, showing off their every graceful move. Absolutely divine! 😍
While those romantic tutus reigned supreme, a new type of tutu was beginning to gain ground: the 'tutu à la Princesse'. This tutu was a bit shorter than its predecessor, hitting around the knees, with more emphasis on lightness and flexibility. It allowed for a faster, more athletic dance style and foreshadowed the tutus we'd see later in the 20th century. I'm always thrilled to see how fashion evolves! 💅
Imagine these magnificent tutus paired with elaborate, feathered headdresses, gorgeous silk bodices and those wonderful satin shoes. The ballerinas in 1872 were a vision of elegance, grace, and undeniable style. Even with the simple beauty of those romantic tutus, the ballerinas of this era demanded attention!
This journey to 1872 got me reminiscing about my latest trip to Paris, where I discovered a fantastic antique boutique selling old ballet costumes and props! Oh, darling, it was a haven for all things tutus! The owner told me a wonderful tale of a tutu from 1875 with intricate embroidery depicting a charming little woodland scene! It must have been simply breath-taking! I'm sure a ballerina in a tutu like that could enchant an entire audience. 🪄
Anyway, you lovely lot must be wondering what's happening on this special date in history. Well, the big event for ballet enthusiasts is that, of course, there isn’t one! While I would love to be there to share in a celebration with everyone in pink tutus (my ultimate dream, after all!), December 31st in 1872 wasn't known for any significant ballet happenings. This gives me more time to indulge in the pleasures of shopping for vintage tutus in Paris! 🥰
But fret not, darling! We'll be taking another journey back in time next Tuesday for more #TutuTuesday goodness. Until then, let's keep twirling and inspiring each other to spread the pink tutu love! Remember, every day is an opportunity to celebrate dance and fashion. Don't be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina! 💃
And be sure to check out my blog next week to learn about how to sew your very own, unique pink tutu! ✨
Now, off to prepare for a delicious cream tea. Afternoon tea in a gorgeous vintage pink tutu is what dreams are made of, darling! Until next time! ☕️ 💖
P.S. Don't forget to follow me on social media for behind-the-scenes photos of my travels and more fun #TutuTuesday content!
