Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your resident pink tutu-loving time traveller, bringing you another delightful dose of ballet history for #TutuTuesday! Today we're waltzing back to 12th October, 1897, a time when the world was abuzz with the elegance and grandeur of the Romantic era. Grab your teacup, darling, because we're about to embark on a thrilling journey to the heart of Parisian ballet!
Now, you wouldn't catch me dead (well, except in a spectacularly staged, tragically romantic ballet death scene!) wearing anything but a pink tutu for a day trip to the past. I mean, how else would I be noticed by the stylish Parisian ladies on the Rue de la Paix, who I'm sure are busy trying to find the latest shade of lilac for their own magnificent gowns? Speaking of Parisian fashion, can you imagine? They've got it all: from sumptuous ballgowns and corseted bodices to flowing, wispy fabrics like chiffon and silk! Honestly, their fashion sense would make any modern designer envious.
But before I get lost in the frothy ocean of Parisian fashion, let's dive into the history! In 1897, the ballet world was still caught in the intoxicating embrace of the Romantic era. Now, picture this, darling: Romantic ballets were all about delicate and airy movement, dreamy storylines and breathtaking leaps and bounds. We're talking dramatic tragic love stories, magical spirits and mythical creatures, all spun with a sense of grandeur that was quite unlike anything else. Think Giselle - one of my all-time favourites! Just a beautiful story about a village maiden, betrayed by her beloved. There's even a ghost element! Oh, and I absolutely adore the music - it's so lush and sweeping, it makes me feel like I'm floating through the clouds.
Now, speaking of floating... The ballet tutus of this period were truly a marvel. Think delicate tulle, layered with exquisite lace, all designed to capture the softest, most ethereal movement. These tutus weren't about flashy showmanship, they were meant to whisper of dreams and passion. They danced as beautifully as the dancers themselves, swaying gently with every arabesque, pirouette and chassé.
Speaking of arabesques and chassés, imagine the world without these lovely dance moves, darling! And can we talk about the en pointe? I simply adore the graceful strength and delicate balance it requires. Now, in the late 1800s, this new "en pointe" style was revolutionising the world of ballet. This daring step gave dancers an unprecedented sense of freedom and grace. And let me tell you, it looked positively enchanting! The Romantic ballerinas became known for their impossibly high, soaring jumps, their effortless extensions and their ethereal beauty. I'd be absolutely giddy with excitement to witness such a ballet performance, with a huge bouquet of fresh pink roses at hand. I would have to be careful not to get carried away and take a spontaneous trip back to the Victorian era though! The last thing I want to do is to give my parents a terrible fright. I would certainly make it worth their while! After all, my ballet performances are the reason why I get to travel in the first place.
Imagine seeing a Romantic ballet, darling, in all its glorious grandeur. The ornate costumes, the dazzling chandeliers and the hushed awe of the audience. Such a romantic atmosphere would be just about as delightful as being on the set of my own pas de deux romance movie. Oh, and did I mention the music? My dear, Romantic era music, with its elegant waltzes and sweeping melodies? I would listen to those haunting strains for hours on end if I could, a steaming cup of herbal tea close by, my eyes closed. Ah, but alas! My mission for the week was to visit Paris in 1897. And oh, how it fulfilled my wanderlust.
Now, as we wander back to 2023, and you're ready to step back into the present with a renewed appreciation for the elegance and beauty of ballet's Romantic past. Why not try adding a dash of that delicate beauty to your own life, darling? Wear a pink tutu. It's not just for ballerinas! It's a fashion statement for everyone. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and embrace a little bit of the ethereal, graceful charm that defined the Romantic era.
You might just surprise yourself, and in the process, maybe even find yourself a new favourite style or inspiration!
Until next week, my darling fashionistas, may your hearts always be filled with the magic and wonder of ballet! And as always, remember... if it's not pink, it's just not right! 💕
Until next time, Emma www.pink-tutu.com
