Hello my darling Tutu lovers! It’s Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time traveller, back with another whirlwind tour of the past, courtesy of the wonders of a very special magic pink tutu, of course. This Tuesday’s Tutu Time Machine has transported us all the way back to February 24th, 1891!
Fancy a bit of 19th century Victorian history, served up with a generous helping of beautiful tutus? Buckle up, dears, because we're diving right into the fascinating world of ballet fashion in the era of grand balls and romantic melodies.
Before we jump back, grab your favourite cup of tea and a dainty biscuit, sit back, and allow me to whisk you away on our historical voyage!
(Sound of a gentle, whimsical tinkling bell and Emma twirling a bit.)
Back to the Belle Époque
Imagine cobblestone streets bathed in the golden glow of gaslight, grand theaters buzzing with anticipation, and the scent of lavender wafting from elegant ladies' bonnets. That’s the setting for our Victorian Tutu Tuesday adventure!
The year is 1891, a year buzzing with activity! The Paris Opera Ballet was just gearing up for another stellar season, and all over Europe, ballerinas were stepping out onto stages adorned in an array of gorgeous gowns and, you guessed it, tutus! Now, the tutu you’re envisioning when you think 1891 probably isn't the short, puffy tutu we know today. Those would come much, much later, but I must say, they weren't entirely missing!
Think of flowing, delicate tulle, cascading down to the knees in waves of white or blush pink, intricately layered and often adorned with intricate ribbons, delicate lace, and the most gorgeous blooms. The ladies in those days, loved a bit of detail, and these beautiful tutus were like their own personal canvas for artistic flair.
What to Expect in Ballet
One of the absolute joys of time-travelling to the 1890s, is seeing the elegance of ballet at its core. No flashy jumps, acrobatic tricks, or modern-day interpretive dances, mind you, but a pure focus on beautiful lines, graceful movement, and a truly ethereal beauty.
For a sneak peek at what might have been on offer in London that very evening, think "The Sleeping Beauty" or a classical ballet featuring intricate choreography. If you can't catch a ballet performance in person, just picture a stunning woman with cascading blonde or auburn hair, gracefully sweeping across a stage, wearing a dress and tutu, both shimmering like stars against the soft backdrop. Think fairytale vibes, darlings!
*Now, what about shopping? *
Oh, my dears! Can we even discuss shopping without letting out a giggle? You wouldn't believe the absolutely stunning bonnets! They were all the rage, you see, with beautiful fabric blooms and ribbons galore, just begging to be paired with a sweet and charming gown! And can we discuss the hats! From feathered concoctions that tickled the heavens to charming little pillboxes perfect for adding a touch of elegance, the ladies of the time had a real talent for putting together outfits that would make even me blush.
*Speaking of pink… *
Well, let’s be honest, pink was, well…pretty much out of the question, even back then for serious stage-wear. Ballet wear at the time was very much confined to traditional colours like white, black, or beige, sometimes incorporating cream and grey, but only for very specific performances and costumes. Now, I’ve got to be honest, my love for pink did feel a little unfulfilled, for lack of a better word! Thankfully, we’re a little further on down the pink timeline than that. But let's keep that for our next blog!
Travel Time!
Now, imagine what it must have been like to travel back then, on steam trains puffing and chugging along. The smell of coal smoke, the clickety-clack of the wheels on the tracks, and the bustling energy of crowded railway stations… The world, in 1891, felt very much alive and brimming with the promise of adventure. So when you’re travelling by train to see your next ballet show or visiting that chic shop, give thanks for your travel privilege! It wasn’t always as luxurious as we have it now.
Final Twirl
The great thing about travelling through time, dear readers, is seeing how beauty and fashion are threads that run through all of history, like delicate and timeless ballerinas. There’s something truly captivating about the past and appreciating how fashion continues to be inspired by traditions that echo back through the ages.
Now, go forth, darlings! Embrace a touch of the Victorian elegance! Whether you’re in your very own tutus, dreaming of tutus, or simply embracing the beauty of days gone by, may you find yourself charmed by the spirit of this historical moment, just like I have. And don’t forget your pink!
Until next Tuesday, darlings, I'm off to explore another decade. I've got a feeling this little time traveller has a date with destiny.
And remember... every day can be #TutuTuesday, and there’s a special pink tutu waiting for you.
Keep on twirling, Emma
Please leave a comment below and let me know what you're up to on #TutuTuesday and remember you can follow me at www.pink-tutu.com. If you've enjoyed this blog, please feel free to share it with your friends. Now go forth and wear a tutu with confidence and a big smile!
