#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1887-04-26

Hello lovelies! Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing, time-travelling fashionista, ready to whisk you away on another journey through the enchanting world of ballet history! 🩰 This week, we’re skipping back to 1887-04-26, and oh darling, the fashion scene is positively swoonworthy!

Now, you know how much I adore tutus - and for this #TutuTuesday, I’ve chosen a glorious shade of rose pink. The colour perfectly captures the spirit of this period. You see, it’s not just a colour, it’s an attitude!

But first, let's take a trip back to the bustling streets of London, shall we? The Victorian era is full of vibrant colours, ruffles, and a love for dramatic embellishments. And what better place to embrace it than at the Royal Opera House, my dear! Imagine, the plush red velvet seats, the glittering chandeliers, and the sweet sound of the orchestra – a truly magical experience!

So, what’s hot in the ballet world this year? Romantic ballet is all the rage darling. Picture intricate dances, delicate costumes, and tales of love, heartbreak, and heroism! La Sylphide, a captivating story of a young woman entangled with a mysterious sylph, was oh-so-popular and continues to enthral audiences to this very day. You know I must attend this one!

The ballet costume, at this time, is far more form-fitting than the earlier fluffy tutu. But don’t be fooled! It’s still incredibly dramatic and intricate, featuring layered skirts, flowing fabrics, and those exquisite, floating sleeves that make you want to twirl!

Oh, speaking of tutus! The tutu's journey in 1887 has moved beyond its earlier appearance in Romantic Ballet. The tutu is now constantly evolving – taking inspiration from both fashion and performance to become more functional and strikingly beautiful. And of course, it remains the iconic garment of a ballerina!

Fun Fact: Did you know that ballet was once considered to be quite daring for a woman? Maria Taglioni, known as the “queen of Romantic ballet,” broke ground for all of us ballerinas with her graceful and airy performances, where her ethereal tutus practically took flight!

Now, let's talk fashion! Imagine the colours - deep reds, lush blues, vibrant greens, and of course, a symphony of pinks! Think luxurious silk gowns, intricately beaded bonnets, and those fabulous feathered hats. Imagine a grand ball at the Ritz!

Don't get me wrong, Victorian era style does take effort, but I wouldn't have it any other way! I adore its elegance, its charm, and most of all, the bold way it celebrates femininity. And guess what, dear friends? It is all about accessories, as every good Victorian knows. You have to pair your grand dresses with gloves, necklaces, beautiful brooches, and of course, a spectacular fan!

This week, I’ve hopped aboard a lovely train to travel to Paris. Oh darling, Paris! It's the heart of fashion in 1887, with all the most dazzling boutiques for fabrics and couture!

Speaking of which, my latest acquisition? You won’t believe it, but I discovered a deliciously delicate silk ribbon with the tiniest silver sequins that are absolutely perfect for my upcoming ballet recital! (Which, I may add, I've managed to squeeze into during my trip.) I’m all about making an entrance in a statement pink tutu. Imagine - my signature rose pink paired with a shimmering ribbon! What a sight!

But hold your horses, darling! As much as I adore the fashion in 1887, we mustn’t forget its practical side, especially for ballerinas! The clothing we wear needs to allow us to move effortlessly across the stage. We are, after all, storytellers through dance!

Here's a secret - ballet is a language - a beautiful blend of art and athletics. It’s no surprise that, as a ballerina, I feel a deep connection to the stories we tell through movement, and how fashion plays a critical role in telling those stories.

It’s the reason I wear pink tutus. This bold colour symbolizes creativity, passion, and above all, joy! And yes, I want everyone to embrace it. So don't be shy! Give it a go! Imagine yourself pirouetting in your own gorgeous pink tutu! What could be more magical than that?

It’s been so much fun traveling back in time and sharing this piece of ballet history with you. Remember, we all have a story to tell, and I believe each of us has a dancer inside. Whether it's dancing on a stage or twirling in your favourite tutu at home, there's always time to unleash the ballerina in you!

See you next week for another adventure in ballet history! 🩰 Until then, wear your pink tutu with pride, darling, and remember to always embrace your own inner beauty!

Love, Emma

PS Don't forget to follow me on social media and visit www.pink-tutu.com for more #TutuTuesday fun! And feel free to share your own tutu stories and experiences in the comments. Let’s dance! 🎉

This post marks #2887 in my Ballet Tutu History blog!