Hello, darling dears! Emma here, your favourite tutu-wearing time traveller, ready to whisk you away to the world of fashion and ballet in the enchanting year 1896! Today, I'm here to share a little history lesson about those fabulous tutus, specifically in the grand era of the 1890s. Buckle up, my lovelies, as weāre boarding the time machine for a trip to Paris, the beating heart of all things stylish!
You know, I just love travelling back to these golden eras of fashion. It's like stepping into a beautiful dream, filled with elegance and style.
Where We Are: Paris in 1896
Ah, Paris! It's vibrant and bursting with life, especially around this date. It's a whirlwind of innovation. Paris has always been the center of fashion for centuries, and 1896 is no exception! Imagine strolling down the boulevards, admiring the elegant women in their stylish hats, frilly gowns, and, of course, the captivating tutus of the ballerinas!
Today, we find ourselves a mere month away from the opening of the "La Revue" at the famous Moulin Rouge! It's the season of exciting revues, and those gorgeous dancers on stage are looking spectacular in their shimmering tutus! I'm envisioning sequins sparkling, lace whispering secrets, and layers of tulle that seem to float on air. Imagine how fantastic they must look with the dazzling spotlights and vibrant Parisian nights!
The Evolution of the Tutu
The tutu has come a long way! Gone are the days of those stiff, uncomfortable layers of stiff, hard netting - those were more a kind of cage than a tutu, darling! Weāre moving towards more flowing designs. In the 1890s, you'll find the tutu romantique, or āromanticā tutu, all wispy layers, lightweight and graceful, allowing the dancers' every movement to be seen. Think Degasā paintings! Those tutus, those dancers, they make my heart dance just looking at them. And letās not forget about those adorable little ribbons on the skirts, just bursting with colour!
This period saw a ballet boom across Europe. This meant more dancers, more shows, more gorgeous tutus, and more Caroline and Charles Worth! Did you know Caroline was a renowned fashion designer for both women and dancers? It's fascinating that women were blazing a trail in fashion back in this era, and they were no wallflowers. In 1896, Paris was at the epicenter of dance!
A World of Colour & Chic
Just like today, a big part of the dance was how the tutu looked! Ballet in the 1890s was vibrant. There were so many incredible hues - pastels, blues, lavenders, the most dazzling pinksā¦itās a fashion-loverās paradise! You couldnāt miss those bright coloured satin slippers and that contrasting tulle...Oh my, it's making me want to find my own dancing shoes right now!
Tutu Trend: Why They Won!
Think about it: Why have tutus remained so iconic? Because they make a statement! The tutus back in the 1890s, even today, embodied the freedom of movement. And the freedom to show off gorgeous design! The delicate lightness of the tutu romantique, the contrast of a full, fluffy tulle and a tiny, elegant bodice... Oh, the drama! It truly is fashion magic, darling.
Looking to the Future: The Pink Tutu
I've got my own special dream, a tutu that truly embraces all things beautiful, feminine, and pink! I picture a perfect symphony of layers, just floating around me as I twirl, as light and airy as the whispers of a soft breeze.
I love the 1890s. These ladies truly embraced the delicate artistry of ballet. Thereās such drama in each twirl, and we owe a big, huge thank you to those who crafted these designs. And what is more glamorous than ballet? Honestly! This trip back in time has me absolutely overflowing with ideas for the perfect pink tutu! Maybe you have ideas too! Send them to me, my loves, because every day, with a bit of inspiration, the dream gets closer to reality!
Until next week, remember, dear reader: Life is too short to not wear a tutu!
Yours always,
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to share your thoughts on tutus, 1890s fashion, and the beauty of ballet! We love hearing from you!
