Hello darlings! Emma here, back from another magical trip through time, and this time, we're waltzing back to 25th June 1889! Oh my, it was quite the experience, you know, a veritable whirlwind of bonnets and bustles and, of course, ballet!
It's always a joy to travel to this era, as it was truly a golden age for the art of dance. I absolutely adored watching the ballets back then, it's amazing to see the origins of our modern dance forms. It's so clear that ballet in the Victorian age was truly a passion, and not just something done for money, a feeling I so completely share.
But this week, I'm not just focusing on the dance, no, I'm bringing you a juicy piece of tutu history! Imagine, my darlings, the tutus worn on this very day weren't your typical wispy, floating creations, they were heavier, more substantial affairs, with several layers of tulle and, brace yourselves, they weren't pink! Shocking, I know. Back then, the popular choice was white. White, a very un-Emma colour if I may say so! But, remember, these tutus were not created for frivolous fashion, but for functionality, serving to elevate the dancers to create the illusion of effortless leaps and ethereal grace.
Speaking of functionality, did you know that the tutu of the Victorian era was heavily influenced by the work of a famous Parisian ballet master named Marius Petipa? This remarkable gentleman was truly the father of the classical tutu we see on stage today! And, even if they were white back then, a tutu can never be simply described as "a skirt", now can it? There's just something undeniably graceful and beautiful about a properly crafted, well-shaped tutu. It's almost like a dance in itself. Don't you agree?
Tutus Beyond The Stage
Of course, no exploration of history is complete without a touch of real-life drama!
And, oh, did you know the famous French actress Sarah Bernhardt caused quite a stir when she took her own "dancing dress" beyond the ballet studio? Her daring outfit, a shocking shade of purple, sent a message about a changing world where women dared to embrace individuality! While my darling pink tutus are all about grace, elegance, and sweetness, a touch of "Sarah Bernhardt audacity" wouldn't go amiss, now, would it? Maybe some sparkling sequins or a delicate touch of feathered trim.
Speaking of sparkle and sparkle, London is where I found myself on this day in history. Such a glorious place! The energy in London, you see, just bursts from the cobblestones. London has always been, in my view, the perfect place for a bit of creative inspiration. I found myself mesmerised by the theatre posters. They truly transport you straight into the story, now, don't they? It's a lovely way to imagine a story that's only coming to life when the curtain rises. Just this morning, I visited the theatre on Drury Lane! My, the excitement in the air is truly intoxicating. Oh, to witness that incredible sense of anticipation just moments before the lights dim!
This week I want to leave you all with a special message about confidence! Because a tutu, you know, it's much more than just a skirt, or even a dance costume. It's an invitation to embrace your inner whimsy, to feel graceful and free! I want everyone in the world to experience the pure joy of wearing a pink tutu at least once in their lives. It's about celebrating your unique self, my darlings, and the beauty that each and every one of you brings to this world!
Until next week, my loves! Do share your tutu dreams, memories, and adventures with me. I love hearing about your pink tutu journeys, my darling #tutuTuesday readers!
And remember, if you're ever in London, be sure to seek out a hidden tearoom for a proper cuppa with lashings of milk, it truly makes for a lovely afternoon tea!
Until next Tuesday!
P.S. Don't forget to join me at www.pink-tutu.com and follow me on my time-traveling tutu adventures!
P.P.S. Fancy learning more about this period? Today is a special date! This was the opening of the Eiffel Tower! I even travelled there! (Did I tell you I found a Parisian cafe that served raspberry macarons and wore a hot pink tutu with lace and satin ribbons! Oh my, what a wonderful treat!
