Welcome back to my blog, darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, Emma, back with another #TutuTuesday instalment for www.pink-tutu.com! I'm bursting at the seams to share some delightful tidbits from the past, and oh, darling, what a time to be alive!
Today, we're waltzing back to 1 January 1889. Can you imagine? The world was just stepping into a brand new year, full of hope and exciting possibilities. It was a time of change, progress, and of course, glorious dance!
Now, you know how much I love my tutus, and it's a joy to know that even back then, they were making their presence felt. But let me tell you, dear readers, tutus in 1889 were not the graceful, flowing wonders we know and love today.
Picture this: our ballerinas were decked out in rather starchy, multi-layered skirts - think billowing layers of tulle and netting that could easily double as a circus tent! They were often draped with ribbons and embellishments, creating a most opulent, almost fairytale effect. But practicality? That was something else entirely!
I can just imagine these dear ladies flitting around the stage, their heavy tutus rustling with every twirl, their steps perhaps a little more cautious, their every movement a grand theatrical flourish.
The beauty of it all was that these monumental creations, despite being a tad less mobile, gave an undeniable aura of classic elegance and grandeur. Oh, I could imagine how lovely they would look on stage!
I travelled in style for this trip, of course - what else is a true ballerina to do? I snagged a first-class carriage on the train and let me tell you, the trip was pure enchantment. It’s all thanks to my last ballet performance – I snagged quite the sum, enough to allow for this little trip back to 1889. I can always earn money from dancing, no matter where in the world I find myself, that’s how popular ballet is.
My trip took me to Vienna, which just so happened to be the location of one of the biggest theatrical celebrations of the year: the New Year’s Eve Ball at the magnificent Hofburg Palace! The event was overflowing with beautiful music, charming company and of course, stunningly adorned ladies waltzing with their gentlemen! And wouldn't you know it, a large number of those ladies were dressed in tutus, though of course not the classic form we are so accustomed to these days. It truly was an enchanting sight!
Did you know that Vienna has a rich and celebrated history in dance? It’s a wonderful city for enjoying ballets, and the ladies were absolutely rocking the look!
As a ballet-obsessed traveller, you can't visit Vienna without dipping into its captivating ballet world! Just thinking about it makes me want to grab my pointe shoes and head straight to the theatre.
Speaking of theatres, while I'm here, I'll have to make time to see some local shows! My absolute favourite thing in the whole wide world is seeing beautiful stories unfold on stage. The way the dancers express their feelings through their graceful movements and beautiful costumes is breathtaking. It's art, my darlings, it’s pure, undiluted art! And nothing says "art" quite like a beautiful tutu!
It's amazing to think how far tutus have come since the days of those large, flowing skirts. The evolution is fascinating. But let's not forget the grandeur of those early tutus - they were a symbol of the elegance and refinement of a bygone era, and their history continues to shape the dance world we know and love today.
Now, darling, I wouldn't be a proper #TutuTuesday blogger without a little bit of advice on how to get your very own Tutu Tuesday Look:
Embrace your inner ballerina: You don’t have to be a professional to love tutus! Whether you prefer a full, poofy tutu or something a little more understated, embrace the playful, elegant side of yourself.
Play with colours! This is your time to experiment, my darlings! Think pastel shades for a sweet, fairytale vibe, or go bold with neon hues for a modern twist.
Pair your tutu with a classic white T-shirt and stylish heels, or dress it up with a beautiful lace top.
Remember, darling, you don't need to wait for #TutuTuesday to embrace this timeless dance fashion staple! A little bit of tutu magic in your life is always a good idea, I say.
Now, run off and enjoy your week, darlings!
And remember, the ballet world is always open to new and inspiring styles, so never hesitate to express your love of tutus, even if you choose to break the mould and make it your own!
*Don't forget to keep spreading the joy of tutus and follow my journey on www.pink-tutu.com. * And until next Tuesday, my darlings!
