Post #2246: 12th January, 1875
Bonjour mes amis! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu-loving time traveller! And wouldn't you know it, today is a real special day! Just hop on board my pink-tutu-clad time machine (it's got a great sound system, trust me!), and let's travel back to Victorian London - the very place where the ballet as we know it really began to flourish!
This was a golden age for ballet, darlings, with dancers like Carlotta Grisi and Marie Taglioni wowing audiences with their graceful movements and exquisitely-designed costumes. Now, you wouldn't catch me stepping out on stage in the frilled-up, layered, cumbersome tutus of this era - a bit too much tulle for my taste - but they were truly the grandest statement for a time of grand theatrical events.
Today's date, 12th January 1875, is brimming with exciting happenings! Not only was there a performance by the renowned Ballet Russe at the famed Covent Garden, featuring none other than the iconic ballerina, Fanny Cerrito, but you could have popped over to Her Majesty's Theatre to see a spectacular performance of 'The Rose of Castile'! And don't forget about all the dazzling fashions on display at the lavish balls and gatherings of the London elite!
Now, imagine this scene:
The flickering gaslights cast long shadows across the theatre as the audience hushed in anticipation. The curtain rose, revealing a stage bathed in soft light. And there she was - the prima ballerina - draped in layers of white tulle, her feet barely touching the floor as she danced. This, my dears, is the true magic of the Victorian ballet. It was a world of spectacle and glamour, of elegant costumes and intricate steps, and it captivated audiences all over the world.
While my heart beats faster for the sleek, simple, modern tutu - much easier to dance in! - I do feel a twinge of admiration for these iconic garments of a bygone era. They represent the spirit of elegance and grandeur that characterized ballet in the Victorian age. And you can bet you’ll see me sporting a nod to these tutus at my next fancy dress ball!
Talking of fashion, what a treat to delve into the wardrobes of the Victorian era! There was such an emphasis on exquisite materials and meticulous detail! A perfect example is the iconic 'Crinoline'. It wasn't a mere garment, it was an embodiment of social stature and it’s the perfect image to embody in a pink tutu for an event! Just picture it: flowing pink tulle creating a beautiful, round silhouette, maybe with some delicate lace trimmings. A true vision of Victorian-inspired glamour, don't you think?
While I love a touch of vintage in my style, I much prefer the freedom of a shorter tutu. My Pink Tutu followers know my favourite silhouette is a boneless, fitted style, perfect for showing off those impressive leaps and pirouettes! I simply cannot imagine having to wear all those layers and heavy fabrics while trying to perform!
But there's no denying, the Victorian era is incredibly inspirational. Those women - their strength and elegance! - truly paved the way for ballerinas like me. Just like I hope to inspire a whole new generation of tutu lovers, from every corner of the world, from every walk of life.
And remember, darlings, wear your pink tutus with confidence. No matter your shape, size, or age, you can find a tutu that flatters you and makes you feel fabulous. We are all ballerinas at heart. We all have our own magical, sparkling, story to tell. And we can all express ourselves through this amazing, expressive dance.
As for myself, I am very busy preparing for my next journey. I have already packed my pink tulle-embellished travel bag and pre-selected my wardrobe, from a selection of Parisian street-style for the daytime to an elegant Grecian gown for the evening. Next week I'm jetting off to Moscow. That's another major ballet hub in a world where ballet became, truly, a global phenomenon, and the history there, well darling - it's pure magic! Stay tuned to www.pink-tutu.com next Tuesday for the very latest on the origins of ballet in Russia.
Don't forget, dearest readers to follow me on all my social channels, and keep your eyes peeled for a #PinkTutu competition coming up shortly! (It is the time of year, after all, for those romantic fancy dress balls that only demand the most delightful attire!) Until next Tuesday, let your heart dance and stay lovely!
