Oh my darlings,
This Tuesday finds me back in the studio after an utterly glorious trip back in time! Now, I must admit, you just can't beat a spot of travel to shake things up a bit, and with February's birthday on the horizon, this vintage jaunt was a birthday present to myself, something a little extra. Today, I’m going to take you with me on a whimsical trip down memory lane – a trip where the trains run on steam, the tutus are frillier than ever, and pink is everything.
We’re hopping in my trusty time machine (you can find it hidden within the folds of my pink tulle - it’s surprisingly roomy!), and we’re setting our sights on 25th February, 1896. This date, you see, was when the darling Cecchetti method, a ballet teaching method that revolutionised ballet techniques and paved the way for the ballerinas we know and love today, was gaining ground.
Now, don't you go mistaking the past for boring, darlings. 1896 was positively bursting with charm and elegance, like a beautifully constructed tulle tutu! It was a time where women, particularly those involved in ballet, embraced graceful styles. We were swathed in layers of delicate silks, velvets, and - oh yes! - the most extravagant tutus you’ve ever seen. Imagine yards and yards of ruched tulle, cascading down our slender forms like a fairytale dream! Those frills were definitely designed to turn heads!
The Parisian theatre was particularly captivating – the atmosphere was electric with the anticipation of a magnificent performance! They even wore stunning opera gloves and elaborate feathered hats! Just thinking about those opulent evenings gives me shivers down my spine, all in the best possible way! The ballet costumes, ah, they were positively dreamy. We saw a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours - reds, yellows, blues, and of course, a splash of pink. It’s a fact, darlings, ballet costumes in 1896 were practically shouting, “We're fabulous!”
But back to Cecchetti, our hero of the moment. You see, he was a master, a real maestro in his own right. His focus? Graceful, controlled, and expressive movement! He truly valued femininity and refined artistry – that elegance was infused in his every teaching. With the Cecchetti method, ballet was reborn – it moved beyond rigid movements and became a celebration of beautiful fluidity and natural grace, allowing for freedom of expression like never before. Talk about revolutionary, right?
And did I mention pink? Yes, my darlings, 1896 embraced the charm and elegance of pink with a fervour rivalled only by modern day social media fashion. Even when visiting museums, and oh how they do adore them here in this vintage London, a certain Victorian pink shade graced many a gown, giving a splash of colour to even the most somber rooms. Just imagine: beautiful paintings by famous artists - and pink gowns adding a feminine touch. The beauty of it all, you simply had to experience it. It was such a delicious colour! And just try telling me it wouldn’t suit your outfit today!
And you know what? I’m thinking we need to embrace a little of that Cecchetti spirit today, let's move with fluidity, express ourselves through dance and, of course, a touch of pink. Who knows, a touch of this historical inspiration might lead to a renaissance in elegance and graceful movements. Wouldn’t that be just utterly fabulous?
You can find a beautiful collection of tutus from this era at The Victoria & Albert Museum, where I happened to make a few new friends – some absolutely delightful ladies in those billowing pink gowns, by the way. (Turns out, even back in 1896, a love for pink could connect any two ladies, no matter their age!) I just know those exquisite tutus will give you a beautiful blast from the past, too.
As always, my darling lovelies, remember to get those ballet shoes on and embrace your inner ballerina, whatever age or shape or size. And, why not add a touch of pink for good measure? It’s absolutely magical, and you can bet, those early 20th-century ballerinas would have adored it, too!
Now, let's head out for some afternoon tea, in a lovely pastel-pink tearoom, naturally. I must make my way to the Ballet this evening. The theatre awaits and my pink tulle awaits to sparkle beneath the lights.
See you next week, my loves, for another #TutuTuesday - and until then, always stay twirly!
Lots of love and sparkles,
Emma.
Don't forget to check out Emma's other Tutu Tuesday blogs at www.pink-tutu.com!
