Hello, darling tutu-lovers! Welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com for another #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History post! It's me, Emma, your resident pink tutu aficionado, and today, we're travelling back in time to the 10th of June, 1884!
Now, imagine it with me, ladies - the cobbled streets of London are bustling with carriages, gentlemen in top hats, and ladies with elaborate hats perched atop their stylish curls. It's an age of elegance, and what's more elegant than a perfectly crafted tutu?
Before we dive into the history of the tutu, I've just got to say that my journey here was divine! My train ride from Derbyshire was perfectly picturesque, and as always, my pink tutu was the star of the show! People just love the colour pink, and let's be honest, it's the perfect shade for a truly elegant ballerina.
So, what were those fab ballerinas twirling in 1884?
Well, my dear readers, the tutus of 1884 were a sight to behold. They weren't the sleek, simple contemporary tutus that you see in most modern performances. These beauties were a flurry of tulle and layers, often incorporating elaborate embroidery and bows. Think big, bold statements in shades of white and pale pastels - very princessy, and utterly gorgeous!
The Romantic tutu, as we call it, had gained popularity in the late 19th century, offering more freedom of movement for the dancers than the Classical tutu of earlier days. It was a time for ballet to express grand gestures and romantic drama, and the tutu followed suit! Imagine a cloud of gossamer, billowing around the dancer as they perform delicate, flowing movements – utterly enchanting, don't you think?
The tutu of 1884 was truly a reflection of the times. Just like today, fashion and ballet intertwined – with the tutu as the focal point, showcasing the dancer's elegance and beauty. I can almost imagine the whispers in the grand opera house during an interval: "Did you see the tutu on Mademoiselle de Beaumont? Absolutely divine!"
Speaking of grand operas, there’s something else exciting happening on the 10th of June 1884 – the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden opens! I just can’t imagine London without the iconic building, and on this very day, the curtain rose on Giuseppe Verdi’s Otello! It's one of those truly captivating moments in musical theatre history, and, believe me, I will be adding this one to my must-see list!
However, my lovelies, let's talk style! Imagine strolling down Bond Street, your eyes alight with all the latest fashion trends! The women in 1884 loved large hats, frills and flowy garments with a dash of lace here and there. Think elegant corsets, long gloves, and skirts with charming flourishes – all complemented by delicate flowers and elegant accessories. The fashion scene back then had a distinctly Romantic aesthetic, quite different from our modern street style.
Now, wouldn't it be splendid to attend a Victorian costume ball wearing a pink tutu? Imagine the look on everyone’s faces as you waltz gracefully around the ballroom! It would certainly make a splash. And who knows, maybe I can make it happen during one of my future trips back in time? I have got my eye on a particularly beautiful lace bodice at a vintage shop in Bloomsbury.
In conclusion, my darlings, the 10th of June, 1884, is a day of elegant tutus, iconic opera house openings, and, of course, impeccable fashion. Time travel may be my thing, but spreading the joy of pink tutus is my passion! And who knows, perhaps the ballet and fashion scenes will inspire you to embrace the romantic era in your own way, with a pinch of pink here and there!
As always, let's make every day a Tutu Tuesday! Until next week, dear readers, remember to keep twirling and keep your eyes on those vintage stores.
See you next time on www.pink-tutu.com,
Emma xxx
P.S. This post is number 2737, I’m absolutely loving documenting this ballet tutu history! And I've just booked my tickets to Covent Garden! I'll be sure to snap some pics in my pink tutu, so watch this space.
