Hello, darlings! Emma here, back from another whirlwind time-travelling adventure, and boy, have I got a story for you! Today's #TutuTuesday takes us right back to the heart of Victorian London, November 21st, 1882, where fashion is as thrilling as a grand jeté, and tutus are still making their debut on the stage.
Just imagine: the air is thick with the scent of coal smoke and perfume, horse-drawn carriages clatter by, and elegant ladies in billowing skirts flutter past. The theatres are buzzing with the thrill of the newest dances and operas, and what's the centrepiece of it all? You guessed it, darlings! The tutu.
Now, 1882 isn't quite the explosion of tulle we see today. We're still in the early days of the ballet tutu, which has been making quite the splash since the 1840s. These early designs weren't the fluffy, layered clouds of tulle we associate with today's prima ballerinas. Instead, picture a single layer of fabric, perhaps muslin or silk, gracefully flowing and revealing the elegant lines of the dancer's form. Imagine the enchanting beauty of a young dancer gracefully gliding across the stage, the billowing white fabric highlighting her every move like a feather in the breeze.
Today's date holds special significance, as this was the very year the world was first introduced to La Camargo, a ballet by Marius Petipa - and oh my, did it sweep the stage! This show features all sorts of lovely choreography, but what really caught the public's eye, you ask? It's not just the grand pirouettes and soaring leaps. No, darling, it's the tutu! It’s not just the lovely dances, but those billowing, almost flowing, designs that made the production. It’s like the ultimate feminine elegance, showcasing the graceful movements of the ballerina! It really captured the zeitgeist!
Oh, my darling, I almost forgot! Today marks the day that The Gaiety Theatre opens in London! It's absolutely positively divine, complete with gorgeous velvet upholstery, gleaming chandeliers and that extravagant sense of Victorian style! It really makes you feel like a princess from a fairytale, which, let's be honest, who doesn't want to be sometimes?
Speaking of princess-like outfits, let’s chat fashion for a bit! I think the best way to embrace the Victorian style is through a vibrant bold print! Remember, my dears, no colour is too much, as they used to say. This is the age of vibrant silks and patterns! Don't shy away from a lovely, full-skirted gown. Think elegant lace and soft velvet. It’s the perfect blend of sophistication and whimsical romance. And, of course, what's an 1882 ensemble without a matching hat? Now, don't be scared to experiment. Maybe a feathered fascinator or a delicate bonnet, perhaps adorned with lace, could complete your ensemble. Imagine how fetching you'll be in a lovely floral hat with an oversized ribbon flowing gracefully around your neck! Remember, darling, every piece you choose, from your gown to your hat, is a reflection of your style and personality. So let's celebrate every last detail of this fantastic era!
But remember! Let’s not forget to incorporate that element of ballet in our wardrobe, just as we have here in 1882. Now, you might not have a fancy ball to attend every day, but you can still rock that lovely ballet tutu on the street! Pair it with a pretty blouse or a charming waistcoat for a truly on-trend touch! And of course, always carry a touch of ballet in your heart. Because, my dear, we should be constantly moving towards grace, just like a dancer in a beautiful tutu!
Don’t forget to look up “La Camargo” and let me know your thoughts! Oh, and dare I mention if you happen to find yourself in the city, don’t miss a chance to take in a performance at The Gaiety Theatre! You’ll be swept away by its elegance and glamour!
So my lovely readers, keep spreading the tutu love, embrace every splash of pink and embrace your own grace! See you next #TutuTuesday!
Love, Emma xxx
