Bonjour, mes amies! Emma here, your ever-so-slightly-pink-obsessed time-traveling ballerina! It's Tuesday, which means it's time to dive into the magical world of ballet history - and as always, we're taking a trip on the fashion express, direct to Tutu Town!
This week, we're travelling back to the glorious year 1884! This was a time of great change and progress in the ballet world, and it was during this very year, on 29th July, that the famed ballerina, Marie Taglioni, danced her last performance of her iconic "La Sylphide." A bit of a melancholy note, yes, but it was also a reminder of the incredible talent and artistry that Marie had brought to the stage.
I travelled back to London for this very event. It was the most amazing thing to see such an important ballerina perform one last time! The dress! The tutus! My pink one (which, obviously, is just a teensy bit different than those worn back in the day), did pale in comparison to the exquisite details of Marie's costume. She truly was a marvel. The stage was transformed with shimmering lights and beautiful flowers, and the entire audience was mesmerized. There wasn't a dry eye in the house after the last notes faded away. I even managed to slip into the after-party - a delightful soiree full of swirling gowns, dapper gentlemen and, of course, copious amounts of champagne.
However, even though I was deeply saddened to see such a talent bid adieu to the stage, that year of 1884 wasn't just about endings! Oh, no! It was also about the rise of new, beautiful ballerinas, who brought their own styles and grace to the art form.
Speaking of rising stars, and just so you know I am totally keeping it real (and very stylishly fashionable of course!), this year is also significant because it marks the arrival of a truly magical invention - the "safety pin"! That's right! A tiny pin, but it was going to change the world of clothing design.
Think about it, before this little marvel existed, fashion was much more complex. Can you imagine having to stitch everything by hand? shivers The safety pin has allowed for more fluidity in clothing, and it has certainly revolutionised the ballet tutu design! It allows ballerinas to quickly and easily attach their tutus and get on with their dancing. Now, that's something we can all celebrate!
So what were the must-have styles in 1884?
It was all about lightness and grace - long, flowing gowns, with an emphasis on natural fabrics. These were delicate, romantic pieces that embodied the ideals of femininity in those days. Ballet skirts and tutus started to get even more detailed and flowing, made with intricate patterns and even more elaborate designs. Can you imagine?! Now that's a tutu story I can get behind!
What are some of the must-haves from 1884 that you could try on in 2024? Well, you can't exactly step back in time and shop at "The Parisian Dressmaker" but here are some elements we can steal from our fashion ancestors:
Lace: Look for delicate, lacy details that add a touch of femininity and whimsy. A bit of a lace trim, even a small lace overlay will totally add a touch of old-world romance.
Silhouettes: Embrace the fluid silhouettes of that era! Think full skirts that flow around your legs - a perfect blend of beauty and elegance. Remember that tutu?
Pale colors: White, ivory, pastel blues and, my personal favourite - PINK were the colour palette. Now we are talking! Nothing says delicate and charming like soft tones.
Oh, and don't forget the shoes! Even back then, shoes were everything! Look for beautiful, dainty ballet slippers, in colours that complement your outfit. And don't be afraid to pair a bit of Victorian style with modern twists! Remember, fashion is about finding what you love and making it work. It's a journey of self-discovery and self-expression!
Remember, every fashion trend has its roots in history! I encourage you to delve deeper into the past! There's so much inspiration to be found - from the graceful lines of Marie Taglioni's dancing, to the practical beauty of the safety pin, there's so much to learn. But, please, dear reader, no need for time-traveling.
Let's stay rooted in our own time. But don't forget that I am ALWAYS happy to provide a guided tour of all the incredible things fashion has to offer! It's a journey that never gets old! And, remember, the best look of all is always a pink tutu, but if you don't want to be quite as adventurous, I recommend you add a bit of vintage style. I love how classic fashion works with just a modern spin! And if you're wondering where to buy your own pink tutu, look no further than "pink-tutu.com" for everything you need!
Stay tuned for next week, when we're heading to 1903! This one is sure to be full of drama, dance and perhaps even a touch of Hollywood glamour! (and maybe a whole new colour obsession that will rival my love of pink...!)
And remember, fashion is a fantastic journey! Don't be afraid to express yourself - you're beautiful, unique and oh so inspiring! Until next time, keep on twirling!
Love,
Emma
xxx
