Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, back again for another #TutuTuesday post. Today, we're taking a trip to the dawn of the 20th century, landing on 30th October 1900.
Hold onto your tiaras, lovelies! Today's historical fashion adventure promises some absolutely fabulous ballet outfits. Picture a world of ruffles, ribbons, and lots of flowing tulle – a true ballerina's dream!
This week, I found myself at the Paris Opera, nestled amongst the stylish Parisians. The grand chandeliers and intricate carvings set the stage for the spectacular ballet. You can just imagine the gasps as the ballerinas twirled onstage, their delicate tutus billowing with each graceful movement.
What was the ballet world like in 1900?
Well, imagine a time where Romantic Ballet was still the reigning queen, and ballet was about showcasing lightness, grace, and fluidity.
Here's what caught my eye this week,
1. Ballet Dress: Imagine a beautifully structured skirt made from layers of tulle and net, ending right above the knee. Did I mention * ruffles? You could have tiers upon tiers adorning these exquisite dresses, lending them an air of playful elegance. It was an age of sheer delight – the transparency of tulle and silk gave dancers an ethereal quality that was captivating.
2. Ballet Shoes: They wouldn't look anything like the pointed satin slippers you find at your local ballet studio! Think light, flexible leather crafted into dainty shoes with tied ribbons.
3. Headpieces: Flowers were absolutely en vogue! Ballerinas, even in the midst of those intense pirouettes, sported wreaths of vibrant blooms intertwined in their hair, adding a whimsical touch. Think delicate daisies, fragrant roses, or even a touch of ivy for a touch of the whimsical. Headbands were also popular, usually embellished with satin ribbons or glittering jewels, adding a dash of glitz to their dance wear.
Let's Talk Tutus!
You see, back in 1900, the tutu as we know it was still evolving! In 1839, Carlotta Grisi revolutionised ballet costuming with her first use of "The Romantic Tutu". A lighter version of the earlier "Lauterbach" tutu. Imagine a fuller skirt, often *worn * over a longer underskirt.
In this decade, *tutus were all about romanticism and grace. * Think delicate, floaty designs, a profusion of lace, and delicate bows. They weren’t the *super short, bouncy skirts you might see today. Instead, they danced between being shorter and full (think of a princess silhouette!) or longer and softer (perhaps to resemble a cloud).
The colours? Soft shades like blush pink, ivory, lavender, and baby blue – a palette that felt like a dreamy, enchanting vision! The contrast with the backdrop was truly remarkable.
How I’m Wearing my Tutu in 1900!
Let’s have a tea party!
Forget that old stuffy afternoon tea. * This time we're having tea under the Eiffel Tower – Parisian glamour! And of course, I'll be sporting my pinkest tutu with a matching ribbon headband adorned with a delicate spray of rosebuds. A *whimsical dress will accentuate my pastel-toned tutu, adorned with dainty ruffles and perhaps a sweet ribbon cascading down the side. A tiny floral clutch to hold my compact, fan, and some dainty teacups, perfect for sipping and swirling like a ballerina.
It's all about finding a beautiful and inspiring aesthetic, adding some whimsy and feminine charm wherever you go!
Looking Ahead:
This is just a sneak peek into ballet fashion from a wonderful period. But don't fret, my dear readers! In upcoming weeks, we’ll continue diving into the history of the tutu, from its elegant beginnings to its exciting evolution, and we'll do it with style! So, keep your eyes peeled and your pink tutus ready!
I'll be catching a few more ballet performances before hopping back on the train to Derbyshire!
Until next week, darling!
Emma x
P.S. Have you caught my latest YouTube video about how to create the ultimate pink tutu wardrobe? It's packed with inspiration!
P.P.S. Don't forget to check out the www.pink-tutu.com website for exclusive offers, dance lessons, and more!
P.P.P.S. Have you started a Tutu Tuesday with me yet? Tag your beautiful pictures #TutuTuesday for a chance to be featured!
