Welcome back, dears! It’s me, your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back with another #TutuTuesday delve into the world of the ballet tutu. Today, we’re journeying back to 1895-05-14, a date that wouldn’t have been so significant to your average citizen but is certainly worth a giggle for a tutu enthusiast like myself.
London Calling! My latest escapade took me straight to the heart of London, where I, naturally, donned a glorious, hot pink tulle creation, perfectly paired with a flowing satin skirt (after all, even time travellers need a little modesty!). London in 1895 was buzzing with theatrical performances. I caught a delightful glimpse of “The Geisha” at the Daly’s Theatre – the story of a charming geisha who becomes an unexpected, and quite adorable, duchess! This era of operetta, darling, was full of vibrant characters, colourful costumes, and even the tiniest sprinkle of those sweet tutu moments!
Tutus on the Stage
I must say, my dear readers, tutus back then were just a bit different, you see. Imagine a long, flowing tulle skirt, sometimes in a glorious swathe of colours, or even in crisp white! They weren’t those dramatic, shorter tutus that we see on the prima ballerinas today. Think more of an ethereal cloud than a powerful silhouette. Yet, oh, how those long skirts fluttered and billowed on stage, making every dancer seem like an angel, soaring effortlessly on a sea of delicate tulle!
Fashion Forward
My favourite thing about travelling back in time is discovering all the wonderful, quirky fashions of the past. Now, even though we were only a century away, the trends in 1895 were surprisingly different from what we know today! Think layers and layers of ruffles and frills, cascading bonnets and elaborate hairstyles adorned with feathers and ribbons, the ladies even sported bonnets to cover their hair in public! The entire scene was one grand celebration of lace, silks, and colour.
And What Did I Wear?
You betcha I had a few fashion purchases myself, dearies! Imagine my joy as I stumbled upon a boutique boasting the most delicate and sumptuous brocades. I had a grand ol’ time in the dressing room, picking out silk and lace galore, which I now proudly use to embellish my modern day tutus. But it wasn’t just about fancy frills. I did my part in pushing for a little extra tulle, you know. I found the sweetest little shop with the most beautiful hand-crafted bonnets and persuaded the owner to sell me a magnificent lilac tulle veil. Just imagine, dears, how stunning that would look over my pink tutu for my next big performance!
A Word to the Wise
My dear tutu-lovers, if you find yourselves exploring the 19th Century, take note:
- The "T-word" wasn't widely used then! It seems they preferred terms like "balerine skirt" or "tulle skirt," giving that delicate air of old-world charm.
- Remember that those 1895 skirts were, well, quite lengthy! And you better believe that ladies and gentlemen walked a bit differently in those elaborate clothes, creating a whole new kind of grace and elegance that's charmingly lost on our fast-paced 21st-century world.
What's Happening Today?
So, what exciting happenings are occurring in this world as we speak? In London, 1895, a grand concert at the Crystal Palace is drawing in the crowds with a spectacular performance featuring both popular orchestral works and, drumroll please, a little bit of the very elegant ballet I’ve mentioned. What more could a girl ask for?!
Always remember, dears: The world of ballet has always been an exciting tapestry of history, fashion, and creativity. Each generation adds its unique twist, its own graceful movements to the art of dance. But one thing remains constant – the magical power of a beautiful, flowing tutu. So, keep on twirling, dear ones! And if you find yourself travelling through time, remember to leave a pink tulle trail behind you – a message in the wind, saying, "Spread the love, spread the pink tutu!”
P.S.: Did I mention I discovered a hidden bakery during my adventures, boasting a scrumptious rosewater and pistachio cake? Truly divine! Until next week, stay chic and stylish, my dears!
