Hello my darling tutu lovers! Welcome back to #TutuTuesday. I am Emma, your time-travelling tutu enthusiast, back to whisk you away to another fascinating historical date on our beloved ballet tutu timeline. This week we’re travelling to the year 1896! Today marks my 3356th blog post here at www.pink-tutu.com and it feels so lovely to be sharing this adventure with all of you. As always, grab your pinkest teacup, settle into your most comfortable armchair, and let’s take a little trip down memory lane together!
Now, before I delve into the delightful details of 1896, I must confess, travelling by train just isn’t the same without my trusty pink tutu! I think it makes a statement, don’t you? Honestly, a touch of pink just adds a certain je ne sais quoi to any journey. Speaking of statements, isn't fashion just absolutely fascinating in this period? It's a real blend of elaborate grandeur and emerging trends, perfect for showcasing the elegance of ballet's graceful movements. I’ve always been partial to a good puff sleeve myself, and let me tell you, they’re simply divine in 1896! The colours are just exquisite, too - deep, jewel tones, like those on a Victorian fan, contrasting with soft, feminine pastels. If you’re thinking of incorporating a touch of 1896 fashion into your own wardrobe, consider velvet for a regal touch, a luxurious silk scarf to add some swish to your hair, or even a delicately beaded corsage to complete your ensemble. You’ll be feeling every inch the Belle Epoque beauty in no time!
But let’s get back to the ballet, shall we? 1896 was a year filled with delightful happenings for those who love ballet! One event that truly grabbed my attention was the creation of the Diaghilev Ballet Russes - oh, this is pure theatre magic, ladies and gentlemen! The energy was just incredible. It revolutionised ballet by combining breathtaking choreography with visually striking designs and costumes. Imagine opulent costumes, innovative stage design, and dances that truly transported the audience. Talk about setting trends! It wasn’t just about pretty tutus – it was about an artistic explosion, a whirlwind of creativity that set the world alight! I know what you're thinking - all those elaborate costumes, how could it have not been fabulous?! And to think, it all happened on April 21st this very year. I truly hope you have the opportunity to experience the Ballet Russes sometime, whether it’s a live performance or in a beautiful film adaptation – trust me, it’s an experience not to be missed!
Now, back to the fashion... I can't help but marvel at the beautiful dance shoes of this time period. The graceful leather slippers with their satin ribbons, or the delicate satin pumps with their pointed toes – they really complement those grand, flowing tutus, don’t they?
This particular year saw a lot of innovation within ballet. In particular, the innovative steps of the renowned dancer Anna Pavlova. This was the woman who brought to life such amazing characters as the mythical 'Dying Swan'. Now imagine - an intricate costume and breathtaking moves! She absolutely wowed audiences with her artistry and captivating technique, paving the way for modern-day dancers.
Of course, what’s a #TutuTuesday post without mentioning Tutus themselves? 1896 saw the continuation of the ‘Romantic Ballet’ period. Now this meant something really special for ballerinas – delicate tutus made from light layers of tulle, offering incredible movement. The Romantic era was the perfect era for showcasing those elegant, twirling moves. Picture this - soft pink tulle, gathered to create beautiful billows and flowing like clouds – a vision of absolute loveliness. Can you just picture how beautiful these performances must have been? I've always dreamt of owning a Romantic era tutu, and the day I do, I promise you all, I will share a full tutorial and plenty of photos here on the blog.
As the sun begins to set, I must bid you farewell, my dear tutu enthusiasts. But before I go, remember - embrace your inner ballerina, and never hesitate to dance like no one’s watching! You can achieve so much if you simply dream, and if you choose to pursue your passions with courage, even those that might seem whimsical at first.
I hope this trip down memory lane has sparked your passion for the captivating world of ballet, and remember to stay tuned for our next journey through ballet history next week on #TutuTuesday! Don’t forget to grab your fanciest dress, put on your prettiest shoes, and head on down to the nearest ballet performance.
And don't forget, a pink tutu always makes life more enjoyable, and, I truly believe, can make the world a brighter place, one pirouette at a time!
Yours in tulle,
Emma xx
