Hello my gorgeous fellow tutu lovers! Emma here, your Pink Tutu-wearing, time-traveling ballet fanatic! I’m popping in from the past today, ready to share a little piece of tutu history with you. And as it’s #TutuTuesday, let's dive into the year 1885 and explore how those lovely layered, tulle masterpieces were changing the world of dance!
Imagine yourself in the heart of Paris. Think boulevards buzzing with carriages, cobblestones sparkling with rain, and the air filled with music and laughter. Ah, Paris in 1885 - what a beautiful time to be alive, especially if you were a ballerina!
The ballet scene was flourishing, just as the fashions of the day. Think extravagant, romantic costumes – it’s almost as though every performance was a giant fashion show. For our lovely ballerinas, it was a time of long, flowing tutus made of several layers of tulle, beautifully creating an ethereal and whimsical shape. Picture elegant designs, beautifully detailed, crafted to perfectly complement the dancer's movements. Think ribbons, delicate ruffles, and flowing lace, each piece adding to the charm and grace of the ballerinas.
Of course, for any aspiring ballerina in 1885, it was all about technique. Ballet schools in Paris were overflowing with talented students, dedicated to honing their skills and perfecting every arabesque, every fouetté, every plié. Just as a modern day ballet dancer takes class and has performance goals, so it was then, only even more so. They practised endlessly to achieve the highest level of skill.
The highlight of every dancer’s year was, of course, attending the grand performances at the prestigious Opera Garnier in Paris. Imagine a glittering ballroom full of beautifully dressed guests. Imagine a sense of wonder and excitement, filled with hushed anticipation, awaiting the graceful, poised steps of the ballerinas. Now, add to that a fantastic orchestra playing an enchanting score! It was simply breathtaking, a perfect blend of music and dance!
And just like today, the world of ballet wasn’t limited to grand opera houses. The dancers and choreographers of the time also graced the stages of theaters all over Europe, sharing the magic of ballet with a broader audience. Travelling by train, I witnessed the incredible excitement around every performance. People dressed up in their finery – think velvet dresses, silk blouses and gentlemen in suits with top hats! Everywhere I went, the atmosphere crackled with energy and joy!
Of course, like a modern-day tutu enthusiast, my own excitement around 1885 stemmed from fashion and style! Think beautiful ball gowns in pastel shades like baby pink and lavender, cinched at the waist with exquisite ribbons. It was truly a golden era for femininity. And of course, a big part of that femininity, in my book, was all about embracing the glorious tutu!
Now, don't you think it's time to turn this historical journey into a lovely opportunity to bring some magic into your own world? Perhaps treat yourself to a stunning pink tutu from a wonderful boutique? A simple tutu in tulle or silk will always bring a splash of fairytale to your day!
Even better, perhaps plan a trip to the ballet with friends! There's truly no better way to feel elegant and fabulous, while immersing yourself in the story the dancers tell, their moves swirling and flying across the stage!
For today, I bid you a sweet adieu, my dear friends! Remember, every day is an opportunity to wear a little bit of magic. Wear your tutu proudly, and may you always twirl your way to happiness!
Remember to join me again next Tuesday, and don’t forget to pop over to www.pink-tutu.com to share your own #TutuTuesday stories!
Until then, happy twirling!
Emma xx
