Hello my darling dears! Emma here, back from another delightful time travel adventure, and oh my, what a treat I have in store for you this #TutuTuesday! We’re stepping back to the year 1879, and oh boy, let me tell you, things are getting seriously tutu-rific!
Now, picture it: London. A city bustling with carriages and chimney sweeps, where the air hums with the scent of coal smoke and freshly baked bread. On June the 3rd, 1879, a certain Mr. John S. Farlow, a renowned and ever-so-stylish hatmaker, opened the doors of his exquisite new shop on New Bond Street. And trust me, my darlings, it was an event! This shop was an explosion of fashion – everything a gentleman or lady could possibly need to look absolutely smashing.
You see, 1879 was the peak of the “Aesthetic Movement,” a time when people absolutely adored beauty, elegance, and artistry. This made for the most wonderful fashion! I simply can't resist the charm of a boned bodice with a voluminous bustle, cinched with a velvet ribbon and accessorized with a hat that's bigger than your head! And I swear, every gentleman worth his salt was sporting a stylish frock coat and a cravat the size of a small country. Talk about fashion goals!
Now, ballet was a sensation during this era. I mean, can you imagine how thrilling it would be to see Marie Taglioni, the original "sylph" (a fairytale character known for her airy grace, light as a feather) performing in one of those iconic diaphanous, gauzy creations? They weren't called "tutus" back then, but I swear, they look like the grand-great-grandparents of our modern tutus!
Speaking of grand-great-grandparents, it’s absolutely essential for me to travel by train. It’s the epitome of elegance and practicality for a time-traveling ballerina, especially one as enamored by beautiful clothes and exciting places as me. Just imagine – sitting in a luxurious carriage, peering out at the world rushing by, with a well-worn copy of my favourite fashion magazine on my lap. It truly inspires the imagination!
And what’s an 1879 adventure without a theatrical performance? The Alhambra Theatre in London, that’s where it's at! This fabulous place had a repertoire featuring everything from grand opera to captivating pantomime, including the oh-so-beautiful and talented Lydia Thompson and her “Blondes” (a truly dazzling troupe of dancers). Imagine – feathers, sequins, and glittering dance routines. I felt my tutu twirling in anticipation just hearing about it!
My darlings, the era was teeming with a unique style that truly spoke to my heart. Imagine being able to waltz around the Grand Opera House in a flowing ball gown, your elegant silhouette emphasized by a cascading cascade of ribbons and lace. I just adore how effortlessly they embraced fashion!
So, this week, I encourage you all to add a touch of that 1879 elegance to your wardrobe. I dare you! Why not accessorize your tutu with a pretty satin ribbon, or a dazzling jeweled brooch? After all, when you look this good, you'll simply radiate Victorian charm.
See you next week, my lovely readers, when I’ll take you on a whirlwind adventure to yet another delightful time and place – all through the lens of a pink tutu!
Stay tuned and keep twirling!
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to share your tutu style adventures on www.pink-tutu.com! I love seeing how my dear readers embrace their own personal pink tutu style. Until next time!
#TutuTuesday #FashionHistory #TimeTravel #PinkTutuLife #BalletHistory #London
