#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1889-02-19

Bonjour, mes amies! Welcome back to my #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog, your weekly dose of all things tutus, from their glamorous beginnings to their contemporary chic! Today we're travelling back to a particularly exciting era in tutu history, the late 1880s, the golden age of ballerinas and exquisite artistry!

This week's date is February 19th, 1889. Let's imagine it's a crisp winter's morning in London, a beautiful carriage drawn by chestnut horses is carrying a fashionable young lady to the grand theatre. She’s in a hurry as she has tickets to the London premiere of “La Sylphide,” and let me tell you, the buzz in London’s artistic circles is off the charts!

Now, you might wonder, "What’s so special about La Sylphide on February 19th, 1889?" Well, it marks the premiere of an entirely new choreography by a rising star - the one and only Marie Taglioni! Imagine the anticipation, the whisperings in the theatre lobby! But for me, the real magic lies in the costumes.

The year is 1889, and ballet is beginning to evolve. The elaborate panniers of the 1700s are gone, replaced by elegant lines and romantic tutus. These graceful, flowing tutus are lighter than air, letting the ballerinas float across the stage, literally! The softest fabrics, adorned with intricate lace and silk ribbons, made them not only a visual delight but a testament to the ballet world's delicate art.

Now, back to our fashionable friend at the theatre - she’s probably wearing a chic costume, influenced by the fashions of the ballet world. It’s all about graceful elegance, think frilled collars, delicately ruffled sleeves, and a touch of the Parisian whimsy, of course! If you've seen the latest haute couture from Paris, you'll know the parallels are striking!

It's funny how the styles intertwine! I've noticed it again and again in my time travels - the styles on stage have a way of flowing out into the everyday, making the ladies look just as beautiful as their favourite ballerinas!

You know, when I'm out shopping in Derbyshire, my eye always wanders to the latest fashion trends - I adore picking out a new hat to compliment a dress, or matching gloves and handbags. And don’t even get me started on the exquisite ribbons and floral details. I simply can't help it; my love for fashion runs as deep as my love for the dance! And you know, there is a reason why I always, always make sure my latest ballet purchases involve a fabulous, fluffy, pink tutu. Pink just always makes me feel so chic and feminine, don't you agree?

I think there’s something so wonderfully magical about seeing how ballet inspires so many of us. There is a spirit of grace and beauty in those pirouettes and fouettés, and it’s as if the audience can't help but absorb a bit of it all. In the bustling streets, you can spot people with a touch of the ballerina: a flowy dress here, a stylish beret there… even the men sometimes have a touch of theatre with their neatly pressed cravats.

But enough about my ramblings, back to our trip down memory lane! This trip, I travelled by train, which for once, went without a hitch. Now I've travelled by train in some grand, beautiful styles in the past - the grand elegance of 1920s trains, the cosy warmth of a sleeper car from the 1950s... and it truly brings the era to life. And it always gives me inspiration for my outfits, for sure!

Speaking of outfits, it's time for me to give you my favourite tip of the week, to help you rock the look from our 1880s journey:

Get the look: The Romantic 1880s Style!

• Choose soft, flowing fabrics: Satin, velvet, chiffon, and even lace work wonders for that elegant, romantic vibe.
• Add a touch of vintage glamour: Don't be afraid to experiment with frills, bows, and even some intricate embroidery.
• Focus on feminine shapes: Think puffed sleeves, cinched waists, and full skirts – the 1880s is all about showcasing those lovely curves.
• Pick a dreamy colour palette: Opt for pastel pinks, soft blues, creams, or rich emerald greens - colours that exude a romantic air.
• Don't forget a hat: The right hat will really bring the look together! Think elegant bonnets with lace embellishments, or perhaps a feather-trimmed fascinator.

So, my friends, get ready to channel your inner ballerina this week. And as always, don't forget to wear your best pink tutu! If you want to embrace your inner Parisian romantic, you’ve got to wear pink.

Until next Tuesday, remember: Every day is a chance to feel elegant and glamorous! And don't forget to follow me on @pink-tutu and #TutuTuesday to see more fun and fashion from across the years. Happy twirling, everyone! xx