Hello darlings!
It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another jaunt through the whimsical world of ballet tutus! This week, I've whisked myself back to the 21st of January, 1896, a most lovely and vibrant time, indeed!
Just picture it: London is buzzing with activity, the air filled with the crisp scent of coal smoke and the sound of horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping down cobblestone streets. Ladies are adorned in elaborate hats, their skirts swishing with every step. And me? I'm strutting my stuff in my very own pink tutu, of course! It's a bit more hoops and frills than what they're used to, but trust me, darling, they're charmed!
Today's #TutuTuesday takes us back to a period when the ballet tutu was evolving into something quite exquisite. Gone are the days of heavy, layered skirts - the era of the tutu as we know it, with its airy and flowing silhouette, is upon us!
Oh, how the *tutu has changed!*
A hundred years ago, the tutu was primarily made of a stiff, starched fabric called tulle. While not as airy as today's lightweight tutus, they were still oh-so-lovely. The tutus were often embroidered with beautiful details and trim. They were like a dreamy swirl of silk – the perfect expression of lightness and elegance. Think delicate lace, shimmering sequins, and little bows, just a hint of sparkle for that extra dose of magic!
Ballet at the Turn of the Century
Now, imagine the enchantment of attending a ballet performance back then! The grand opera houses were brimming with excitement. The opéra was alive with drama and passion! In Paris, the Opéra Garnier was in its glory, and ballet companies were gaining prominence, showcasing tutus in all their grandeur. In Russia, the Imperial Ballet was in full swing, boasting incredible dancers and mesmerizing choreographies.
And you know me, darling - wherever the ballet takes me, there I shall be, indulging in the delicious delights of fashion!
A Day in 1896...
So, imagine my delight on this grand January day as I found myself strolling down Regent Street, London, the air humming with energy.
The shoppes were packed with exquisite gowns and stylish accessories. I simply had to purchase a lovely velvet hat with a feather plume, to complement my perfectly pink tutu. The most divine lace mitts graced my fingertips, of course, as well as a sweet little lace parasol for the walk to the opera. I even managed to snatch a new book, titled The Story of the Ballet, with charming illustrations of lovely, twirling dancers in their sparkly tutus - how divine!
Speaking of divine twirls, I was simply thrilled to discover that a special performance of "The Nutcracker" was taking place tonight! The tale of Clara, the Nutcracker, and their magical journey - what a magical treat for a tutu-loving girl!
And you know, my lovelies, it wasn't just the ballerinas who wore tutus. I spotted little girls and young ladies everywhere, frolicking in their own miniature tutus. This time, it's the tutus for all - every woman and girl deserves a twirl, as I always say!
Fashion in a Pink Tutu
As always, my darling readers, I was ever-so-conscious of my *look, ensuring every detail was perfectly posh and perfectly pink, because let's face it - fashion is fun! And it doesn't get more whimsical than dancing around in a fluffy pink tutu!
But you don't have to wait for a fancy event to rock a tutu. Take it from me: wear it on a picnic in the park, or even to the grocery store, why not?! Don't be afraid to express yourself through fashion!
Tutus and the Future
So, as I depart from 1896 and travel back to our own time, I leave with you this important message: never be afraid to experiment, explore and, most importantly, tutu around!
Until next Tuesday, darling, may your day be filled with joy and fabulous pink tutus!
Love always, Emma
(PS. Be sure to check out the next #TutuTuesday post, where we journey to Paris and the Belle Epoque era! It's going to be oh-so-chic! And if you're loving the pink, be sure to follow me on Instagram for more tutus, fashion, and ballet fun!)
XOXO
