Bonjour, my fellow Tutu lovers!
Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveler, ready to take you on a whimsical journey through the annals of ballet history!
Today, I’m stepping back to the glamorous, shimmering era of the Belle Époque, specifically, the 3rd of May, 1898.
Can you imagine a time where everyone's wearing bonnets, the biggest fashions were enormous poufs and bustling corsets, and, wait for it, tutus were only starting to emerge in full force? Well, this, my lovelies, is precisely where we find ourselves!
Now, don't get me wrong. While ballet was definitely flourishing during the Belle Époque (a period that ran from 1890 to 1914), the tutu, as we know it today, was still quite different. Think long, flowing, romantic tutus that emphasized movement and fluidity.
As for our fashion, ladies, we're talking about some serious frills, lace, and ruffles. The ultimate look? A full, bouffant gown with a cascade of lace falling gracefully from the shoulders.
Can we please have a moment to imagine a Victorian era outfit adorned with a perfectly fitted, frilled tutu? The very thought is giving me major fashion-envy!
But back to the 3rd of May, 1898! Today marks a fascinating ballet performance at the Paris Opéra. It's a rendition of "La Source", an utterly captivating ballet by Léo Delibes, showcasing a mesmerizing interplay of light, shadow, and movement. You could see this mesmerizing piece being performed in Paris, the epicentre of fashion and creativity, or even in Vienna, Berlin, and St Petersburg. It truly was an international ballet boom!
Imagine watching these dazzling dancers move across the stage, twirling in their long tutus as if they were floating on clouds. You might even be able to catch a glimpse of the étoile of the evening, Mathilde Kschessinska, performing the most captivating leaps and spins, sending shivers down your spine with every graceful pirouette.
It’s incredible to think how even then, the art of ballet and its connection with exquisite costumes was making waves across Europe. Can't you imagine the excitement of stepping into a grand Parisian theatre in 1898, the aroma of rich fabrics and perfume filling the air? I simply can't get enough of it!
The influence of tutus on the fashion of the time is undeniable. These airy and elegant pieces influenced both the way ladies wore their clothing, with a move towards more flowing lines, and even influenced the way gentlemen dressed. It was all about graceful movements and expressing oneself through one's style!
Of course, no fashion blog is complete without a little bit of personal touch! Now, my darling friends, while I wouldn't want to sacrifice my favourite pink tulle skirt (let's face it, it's simply impossible), I can definitely see myself donning a stunning, ruffled gown, adding a touch of sparkle with a brooch or two, and heading to the opera to witness a magical performance!
For the 3rd of May, 1898, I envision my wardrobe filled with pastel pinks and soft yellows, delicate lace, and oh-so-chic, swirling skirts! After all, there’s no better way to embrace history than to channel it with a touch of playful style!
So, tell me, darlings, what do you think about the Belle Époque style? Do you think you could rock the puffy sleeves and big skirts? And are you tempted to wear a sparkly tutu as an accessory?
Until next week, keep dancing your hearts out, stay radiant and remember: every day can be #TutuTuesday, because, in the words of a great artist, "Dance like no one's watching!”
Yours in all things tulle,
Emma 💖
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See you next Tuesday! 💕
