Hey darlings, it's your favourite tutu-loving time traveller, Emma, back for another sparkly #TutuTuesday journey into the world of ballet history! Today we're stepping back in time to 1896, a glorious era where pink was practically the national colour of the ballet world. Just imagine!
We’ve all heard the saying “pink is the new black” right? Well, darling, let me tell you, pink WAS the new black back then. I'm talking vibrant, blushing pinks, the colour of romance and elegance that just seemed to float around the stage like magic.
So, where should we set our time machine today, darlings? Oh, this is going to be fab. How about… Paris, darling! Paris in 1896 - a bustling city full of opulence, glamour, and, of course, divine ballet performances!
Stepping off the train into Gare du Nord, the scent of freshly baked croissants fills the air (yum, croissant buns with my pink tutu... hmm...), and all around me I see horse-drawn carriages and ladies in stylish, trailing gowns - think Belle Époque elegance! And of course, everywhere I look, a flutter of pink. Just what my little ballerina heart desired. 💖
Off to the Opera
With my lovely pink tutu sparkling under the Parisian sunshine, I arrive at the Palais Garnier – the crème de la crème of Paris opera houses. Imagine, darling, opulent, grand, decorated in stunning, extravagant marble! * Inside, I spot the famous Grand Staircase and *gosh it is divine! The detail! And so many beautifully dressed ladies... some with those elegant chignons, which is so divine! All the men, too, so impeccably dressed... what style. It's the stuff of dreams. ✨
The Ballet - A Visual Spectacle
The ballet program tonight? It’s the “Giselle” – an iconic story of love and tragedy set to some truly exquisite music! The stage is alight with the graceful figures of the ballerinas, clad in their romantic tutus and exquisite costumes - oh, the feathers, darling! Just the image of a beautiful ballet performance fills my heart with joy and wonder!
One thing I've noticed about this era is the attention to detail and sheer craftsmanship! Each layer of tulle, every pearl and bead on the bodice... just meticulously made. I'm thinking, I really must try to get some lovely Victorian-era, pink tutus. They look like dreamy clouds - ethereal, ethereal, I just love the dreamy air of these gorgeous creations! ✨
The Alluring Colour Pink
Back then, darling, the power of pink to evoke sweetness, romance, and pure innocence was very pronounced! The tutus weren’t the only thing awash with pink - even the floral decorations and even some of the ornate settings would be painted with those charming pastel shades. This whole look, darling, made me want to swirl in a cloud of tulle!
And Now For A Treat!
I'm so excited I had to stop at Ladurée on the way home and indulge in their divine macarons! It’s just not a visit to Paris without a box of those exquisitely colourful and dainty pastries... my favourite shade? Of course, darling, pink macaron!! A lovely delicate colour... a truly sweet delight, much like our pink tutus.
Remember the Dream
The world of 1896... oh, I just love stepping back in time and marvelling at the elegance and charm of those eras. But you know what? Though fashion trends come and go, that feeling of romantic magic of the ballet stage is just… timeless. It never fades. And every time I step onto a stage or even a classroom floor in my beloved pink tutu, I feel like I’m transported right back into that wonderful world!
So, darling, remember... even if we’re not all in the midst of Victorian elegance right now (though it’s definitely a look worth reviving! ), let’s all celebrate the spirit of dance and fashion! * Keep dancing, darling, and *dream those sweet dreams in your tutus. Don't be shy about those pink tones - pink never goes out of style!
And do come back next week, darling! As usual, there will be a new exciting chapter of Tutu Tuesday, waiting just for you! You know you wouldn't miss this pinktastic ballet history adventure for the world... see you then! 💕💖
Yours,
Emma, the pink tutu loving ballerina 💖
(www.pink-tutu.com)
