Hello darlings! Emma here, back with another thrilling trip through time to uncover the secrets of the tutu. Today, we're twirling back to 11th January 1887 - quite a different era, don't you think? Imagine London! Horse-drawn carriages, lampposts casting long shadows, and ladies in lavish gowns! I simply had to make a stop to see how the world of dance was shaping up.
As always, I'm wearing my favourite pink tutu. You can't beat a little sprinkle of pink to add some sparkle to a historic journey. Now, let's step back to that magnificent year of 1887 and find out what was swirling in the ballet world...
Firstly, what's happening in England on this glorious 11th of January? Well, picture this: the Queen's Theatre in London is alight with the glittering stage lights, showcasing "The Magic Flute" - the first full English translation of Mozart's opera! A grand production, my dears. And believe you me, opera audiences were no strangers to ballet, with scenes featuring ballets nestled right into the heart of the show! So, there was a chance for elegant ladies in the audience to take in a whirl or two of graceful, flowing ballet tutus.
But here's the interesting thing, it wasn't just the theatres abuzz with ballet; London itself had become a hub for the burgeoning world of dance! In 1887, you could see shows featuring both Russian and French ballet at various London stages. And what's truly exciting - a wave of interest in ballet began to surge through the nation.
It's true! Ballet in England was truly in bloom, thanks in no small part to a legendary ballerina called Mlle. Eugénie Fiocre! Can you imagine, being considered a leading light of ballet? She was performing in the grand ballets at Covent Garden and at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. It was a period of immense change for the world of ballet. The old classical styles were still being admired, but a shift towards the Romantic ballet, the era of pointe work, was making its presence felt. And that, my dears, is where our lovely tutu takes its first truly captivating bow.
The ballet world was on the cusp of something truly special! Those swirling tulle skirts were no longer confined to simple, structured designs. Imagine, tutus were getting longer! Reaching out towards the stage, showcasing intricate, almost cloud-like formations. Mlle. Fiocre was at the heart of it all, setting trends, wowing audiences, and pushing the boundaries of the tutu!
But now, let's indulge our fashionable side, shall we? We simply must talk about the gowns in this era! You can imagine them: shimmering fabrics, intricately layered and with intricate embellishments! The pastel shades of blush pink are the stars of the show. We're talking the quintessential Victorian glamour, a bit like a dreamy ballerina outfit!
For the most refined of affairs, the evening gown would be a breathtaking whirl of pale pink, layered with fine silk and satin. Maybe a delicate train or flouncy layers, hinting at the romance and passion of the ballet performances that awaited. Now, if you had a taste for something truly extravagant you would find an array of magnificent gowns with intricate embellishments – a flurry of pearls and ribbons on their satin bodices, a true statement of elegance and refinement!
To add the final flourish to these gorgeous gowns, ballet jewellery was in high demand! Delicate flower arrangements woven into elaborate hairpieces or exquisite earrings made from real pearls would complete the perfect look.
I tell you what, dear readers! There is truly a sense of pure femininity and delicate grace, isn't there? Even back in this earlier time, those stunning garments embraced the passion and drama of the theatre and danced beautifully alongside the ballet, making those performances even more enchanting.
Back to my journey now... it's always hard to say goodbye to the fascinating history we explore together! As you can see, 11th January 1887 was truly a whirlwind of creative energy!
But now, off I trot! I'm whisked away to a new adventure in the world of the tutu, and you can be sure I'll be sharing every exciting detail with you! Keep a look out for a brand-new blog post next Tuesday! Until then, let's spread a bit of joy - put on your favourite pink tutu, have a twirl around your living room, and remember the power of graceful elegance, right at your fingertips!
Remember, dear friends, I have just one goal: to spread the message of pink tutu love! Until next time!
With all my love and twirls,
Emma x
