Hello, darlings! Emma here, back again for another Tuesday with your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time traveller. I hope you're all ready for a blast from the past because today, we're heading to the late 19th century - specifically, to the 30th of December 1890! Can you believe it? A whole 133 years ago!
Where's the train going this time?
This week, our time travel adventure takes us to the heart of ballet's Parisian scene. It's the city where tutus truly began to flourish! Just imagine - Paris in December, the crisp air and the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the streets, the twinkling lights of the Theatre de l'Opera shimmering in the distance... And of course, a sense of excitement as the city gears up for a new year!
1890: A year for Ballerinas!
The year 1890 saw some extraordinary performances grace the stages of Paris, showcasing the evolving beauty and strength of ballet. Ballet had, of course, been around for a very long time - it dates back to the Italian Renaissance, but 1890 marked a year where it truly took flight and became the breathtaking art form it is today!
Imagine these scenes: The delicate steps of dancers wearing tutus that were growing lighter and more layered. A focus on flowing lines, and captivating movements designed to enchant the audience with their elegance and grace. And that glorious feeling, oh, the thrill, of watching dancers leap across the stage in perfect synchronization! The sheer artistry of it all is breathtaking!
But, back to the 30th of December 1890. On this date, Paris wouldn't have been filled with holiday excitement like we are now. Christmas Day would have been a little quieter, much quieter, and New Year's Day would be just a few days away.
That doesn't mean there wasn't something special happening on this date. Think about it, ladies: It's a Tuesday, just like today. This could mean any number of things. I picture the charming Parisian Ballet schools already in full swing for the New Year, their studios buzzing with a symphony of music and the clatter of shoes. Can you just imagine the young ballerinas working diligently, perfecting their technique?
I bet there'd be many beautiful tutus drying in the warm sunshine, with layers of tulle carefully hung up - their silhouettes whispering tales of past performances and upcoming dreams.
So why were Paris, the theatres, and the ballet so important?
Oh, my dears! They were simply at the forefront of elegance! I mean, we all know Parisian fashion - from their beautiful dresses and hats, their incredible lace - the entire look - is synonymous with grace, with sophistication, with chic.
And let's face it: There was no way these elegant women were going to stand on stage in any old attire, so of course, they brought a fresh and feminine approach to the art of the ballet. Their designs emphasized every lovely line and curve. Think long flowing skirts and dainty embellishments, ribbons and beads sparkling on the stage under the stage lights, and intricate corseted tops that accentuated the ballerina's figures - this all meant the stage had never looked as enchanting as it did in this era!
But then, we move to the tutus! It wasn't about practicality or covering the entire leg for them. Their tulle was airy, so lightweight - designed to "disappear", so they could literally dance through the air. And it had to move gracefully - I mean imagine this! As their limbs flew, they would become, almost like flowers dancing in the breeze! The entire spectacle was breathtaking!
I adore travelling in time for days like these. Just picturing the ladies, and the excitement!
But, darling, the era also introduced what we'd call today's 'classic tutu'. The style we all know today and the very look we think of when we envision a ballet performance. This style was shorter - showcasing their long, slender legs - and its shape resembled a flower in bloom! The skirt of the tutu was fitted to the hip and then flowed outwards - oh, so lovely!
Oh! Now imagine all of these tutus, these lovely ballerinas and all of this incredible artistry at its peak - just in the same space.
Well, dear ones, we'll have to leave it there for this #TutuTuesday! Don't forget, join me again next week for another incredible historical exploration through the fascinating world of tutus! And remember, ladies, never be afraid to wear your favourite colour, embrace your inner dancer and always, always remember that a tutu makes every day a little more special.
Until next week,
Emma
[website link: www.pink-tutu.com]
