Hello, darlings! Emma here, back with another instalment of #TutuTuesday, and this week we're stepping back in time, all the way to December 9th, 1884. Fancy a journey to the era of bustles and bonnets, but with a twist of tutu, of course!
Let’s start with the train journey, because there's nothing quite like a good old-fashioned steam engine chugging you across the countryside. I find the rhythm so inspiring – perfect for conjuring up those ballet moves in my head! This time, we're off to Paris, the capital of fashion and, of course, ballet. Ah, Paris in 1884, oh what a delightful time! Think cobbled streets, grand theatres, and all those dreamy gowns with the extravagant crinolines – so much inspiration for a budding ballerina like myself!
Speaking of ballet, December 9th falls just a week after the Paris Opera Ballet would have been presenting “La Bayadère” for the first time, at the beautiful Palais Garnier. Oh, I wish I could have been there! To see the iconic Indian story unfold on stage, and those elegant dancers in their costumes... it would be like stepping into a dream. Can you picture it, darlings? Gorgeous tutus twirling and swirling, stories unfolding, all beneath the glittering chandelier!
Now, I bet you're curious about what kind of tutus were trending back in 1884. Picture this – think flowing fabrics, delicate lace, and those perfectly full skirts! The Victorian era embraced romance and femininity, and ballet wasn't left behind! We’re not talking about those super-short tutus like we see today, though. Back then, ballerinas often wore long, flowing tutus reaching down to their ankles. These beauties were made of multiple layers of tulle or muslin, allowing for elegant swishes and graceful movements.
Speaking of fabrics, my dear girls, if you’re shopping for a tutu this week, look no further than lace! Think about black velvet and chiffon, with maybe a splash of pale pink to echo those blush tones so popular back then. A touch of embroidered flowers – perfect for adding that touch of delicate sweetness! It’s so much fun playing around with these fabrics and experimenting with different shapes and silhouettes!
Of course, no #TutuTuesday post would be complete without some reflections on what makes these little pink beauties so special. In an era when women had fewer choices and were expected to behave with utmost decorum, the ballerinas onstage were a breathtaking sight. The grace of their movements, the expressiveness of their bodies, and the sheer beauty of their attire allowed them to transcend social expectations and inspire joy and awe.
And guess what? The Victorian love for femininity is echoed in today's ballerina style! Those fluffy tutus we see onstage, with all their tulle layers and twirling potential, perfectly represent that sense of lightness and carefree elegance. So let's not forget to appreciate those who paved the way for our ballerina world – the pioneers of tutu fashion!
Right, darlings, I need to sign off now. The steam engine awaits, and I must rush to a charming shop I heard whispers of in Paris – a haven of the most beautiful and romantic fabrics you could imagine. I’ll be sharing all my fabulous finds next #TutuTuesday. Until then, keep twirling and keep spreading the joy of pink tutus!
