Hello darlings! Emma here, back again from another thrilling journey through the magical history of ballet and, of course, the oh-so-wonderful world of tutus! Today, weâre going back to 24th November, 1903!
Isn't it utterly delightful how we can hop aboard a time machine of sorts and witness the evolution of fashion, of ballet, and most importantly, of tutus? My travels are a whirlwind of swirling skirts, exquisite music, and the most delectable shoes, all funded by my ever-so-popular ballet performances â why, I've even got my own fan club now, you see! You should see their tutus â they make the ones in my Derbyshire village look positively dowdy!
Speaking of villages, imagine my delight when, in 1903, the Parisian Ballet, a veritable haven of pink and tulle, decided to take their artistry all the way to Russia, to St Petersburg, for a magnificent performance! Why, I wouldnât miss it for all the tulle in the world! A trip across Europe in a train carriage, I was practically vibrating with excitement! But what were tutus like in those days, you ask?
Whimsical Romanticism and Graceful Lines
Imagine, if you will, tutus that looked more like frothy clouds than the crisp, structured masterpieces of today. The Romantic era (ah, it's a delicious name, donât you think?), favoured tulle gathered in such a way that they gently grazed the dancer's ankles â absolutely picture-perfect. It created a soft, fluid effect that emphasised their ethereal movement, just like the graceful swan's feather in its ballet form! It was almost as if they were about to float right off the stage!
But⌠where were all the colours?!
Yes, it's true, the hues in 1903 werenât quite as vibrant as what we see today. Weâre talking soft, pastel shades â the dreamy ivory, a delicate hint of peach, and of course, my favourite, a light and airy pink. These colours perfectly captured the Romantic aesthetic, the essence of light and femininity! I mean, wouldn't you be a total dearest in such a beautiful costume? Just picture it â twirling under the gaslight stage lights, your delicate pastel tulle billowing, just perfect for those whimsical jumps!
A Glimpse into St Petersburgâs Theatre World
It wasn't just about the ballet! While in Russia, I just had to check out the vibrant fashion of the time. Fashion in St. Petersburg was as grand as their architecture! I loved how ladies flaunted intricate lace bodices and puffed sleeves - it almost mirrored the frills of my tutu, you know? I made sure to get a proper photo to inspire a new line of my "St Petersburg Ballet" tutus for my shop, "Pink-Tutu.com." I even got the delightful Madame Alexandra, who you may remember from the fashion scene in Moscow, to share some insider secrets! She assured me that even in Russia, the âitâ look was elegance with a pinch of playfulness. Now, doesnât that sound just delightful?
Oh, and what's this? A Peek into a Grand Opera House
What better way to truly feel the heart of Russia in 1903 than to see an opera performance? They were opulent, luxurious â it was all silks, velvets, and some very serious drama! The costumes were so intricate that I spent a whole day sketching in my journal just for the sheer inspiration of it all. Did I mention, itâs the best time to find new ideas for tutu trims? I do hope that my darling followers in London and Paris find the same excitement in my designs as I find in seeing them for myself.
So Much to Discover!
It seems like there's always a new chapter in the tutu's tale to discover. In this grand adventure, I get to meet so many fascinating characters who breathe life into balletâs past. They may not all be wearing a pink tutu, but the magic is always present, dancing and swirling around me! I promise, my dearest darlings, more of my adventures with these remarkable moments in ballet history will unfold every #TutuTuesday right here at www.pink-tutu.com, so make sure you join me! Now, if youâll excuse me, I have a shipment of delicate pink tulle to prepare â there are new designs that are simply divine! Until next time, keep twirling!
Emma xoxox
P.S. Have you worn a tutu yet today, darling? It truly transforms a day from ordinary to exquisite! Youâd be surprised how it changes a mood! #tutu #ballet #fashion #history #pink-tutu.com #EmmaTheTutuTimeTraveller
