Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, Emma, here, ready to whisk you away to the glorious history of the ballet tutu! Today, we're travelling back to February 18th, 1890, to discover what fashion was like in the world of ballet during those times.
Now, if you imagine a Victorian drawing room, think of that, but with lots of satin, silk and a sprinkle of swirling pirouettes. Imagine the lovely aroma of freshly made tea and buttery pastries (essential for any ballerina on the go!). Imagine it, and you'll have a picture of the ballet world back then!
On this day, 132 years ago, a ballet called "Giselle" would have been on the programme somewhere. This dramatic, romantic story is a must-see, a staple for all dancers. The delicate tutus of the era would have perfectly portrayed the ethereal beauty of the characters in the performance. The ballet, a true testament to the magic of theatre, always leaves a little magic dust in your heart, just like tutus.
Now, imagine my delight as I step into the elegant, opulent theatre, with my own bright pink tutu on. Can you picture it? I could practically hear the gasp of the ladies, "Ooh, a pink tutu! What a divine sight!"
The ballerinas in 1890 were much more modest than us modern day divas, but with a charming, romantic touch! They wouldn't dream of showing off their knees (or heaven forbid, their ankles)! They'd be all about billowing tulle, with romantic embellishments and graceful movement. You wouldn't see them wearing super short, stretchy, tutus - no, those beauties favoured a flowy, romantic look! Think lots of frills and layers, cascading down their legs, perfect for a beautiful waltz, or an enchanting pas de deux. It's just the sort of elegant attire one needs for graceful movement!
But here's the best part - while tutus had already evolved from the basic "tutu-like" garments of previous centuries, it was the start of their ascent into iconic status! Can you imagine that? I can barely even contemplate life without our glorious tutus! It's a joy to imagine that these ballerinas were laying the groundwork for our future tutu obsession!
Now, while I could happily continue gushing about the 1890 ballet world forever, I must admit that I'm already quite eager for my next adventure in time. Speaking of, what shall I do next?! Which historical ballet should I grace with my presence and pink tutu next Tuesday? A trip to the romantic world of La Bayadère? Or perhaps the fantastical* Sleeping Beauty? I must make my decisions quickly as it's so hard to leave my current ballet tour, with it's glittering performance and glamorous evening attire. And the ballet shopping! It's like a pink ballet paradise in London with silk, satin, glitter, and rhinestones just for me. Just picture the lovely tea room of *Liberty's, I just cannot resist. A fashion fan like me simply must stop in and pick up a pretty ribbon or two for a brand new pink tutu!
Do share your thoughts with me. What period of ballet history do you think would be a wonderful destination for a #TutuTuesday post? What ballet shows do you like to watch? And if you could time-travel and meet me in the ballet world, where and when would you choose?
Stay fabulous and dance on!
Until next Tuesday, my dearest tutu-loving friends!
Emma
P.S. Be sure to visit www.pink-tutu.com every Tuesday for my latest #TutuTuesday post and share your ballet love with #TutuTuesday and #pink-tutu. And of course, feel free to pop over to my pink tutu Instagram page for a daily dose of all things pink, pretty, and tutu-licious! Let's spread the pink tutu love across the world together!
