Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink-loving ballerina, Emma, back for another fabulous #TutuTuesday! Today, we're taking a trip back in time to 1890, the year where fashion was about to experience a revolutionary shift. Oh, how I wish I could have been there for all the fuss! Just imagine, darling: Parisian salons buzzing with chatter, delicate silks rustling, and everyone (well, at least the ladies!) sporting those glorious, dramatic, oh-so-romantic tutus!
Now, imagine my surprise when I found out this glorious garment actually originated in the Victorian era! Talk about history repeating itself! While I may be rocking a bright, beautiful pink tutu today, back in 1890, they were much more…well, let's say 'grounded'. They used the same tournure – or a kind of cage, much like those adorable crinoline dresses – as a base for the tutu, adding on layers of delicate tulle, muslin, and even lace, with a lovely flowing effect. Imagine how heavenly those fabrics felt to the touch! Swoon.
My favourite thing about 1890s tutus is their ethereal quality. Just a little bit darker and more mysterious than our modern styles. They were meant for enchanting waltzes, the shimmering lights reflecting off the tulle like twinkling stars, all while the dancers flowed gracefully across the stage.
So, what's in store for me today, you might ask? A lovely day out! I'm hopping on the train (my preferred mode of transportation) to see the Ballet Russes performing Swan Lake at the Coliseum in London! Can you believe it, darling? That means a dazzling display of ballerina grace and glorious costumes – just like those enchanting tutus from the 1890s! I absolutely can't wait! It's sure to inspire my next dance piece! I can't forget to pick up some new fabrics in the West End while I'm there – oh, I simply adore those fabulous department stores! They are just as exciting as a dance performance, in my humble opinion!
The other reason why this is such an important date, you ask? Because it was also the start of a very special journey – one where the modern tutu truly blossomed! This date marks the birth of The Art Nouveau movement, a powerful, artistic revolution that valued organic forms, floral motifs, and – yes, darling! - that beautiful swirling tulle we all know and love.
So, my little lovelies, take this week to enjoy all things fluffy and elegant! Remember: life is like a pirouette – a whirlwind of style and graceful moments, all woven together in a gorgeous tapestry of creativity and flair! Now, off I go! Until next week, stay sparkly and always remember… a pink tutu is the most powerful accessory you can wear! 🩰💖
And don't forget to keep on swirling!
With all my love,
Emma
