Welcome back, darlings, to another edition of my #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History! This week we’re pirouetting our way back to 27th February 1906 – a truly exciting date, as you’ll see. Buckle up, lovelies, as I whisk you away on a journey of tutus, trains, and the joy of the dance.
This blog post is my 3870th one for my lovely followers here on www.pink-tutu.com! It’s simply astonishing that we’re reaching such numbers. Every Tuesday morning I sit here, swishing my pink tulle with a big grin, and think: “How much history have I gotten to delve into and how much magic have I gotten to share?”
Before we plunge headfirst into this grand old era of 1906, I have to confess - I’m totally enamoured with today’s chosen outfit. Imagine a blush pink tutu with delicate ruffles cascading like a waterfall. The layers and layers of silk are whispering tales of elegance and whimsy – it's a true dream come true. The colour itself – divine, isn't it? You see, pink isn’t just a colour, darlings, it’s a feeling. A feeling of lightness, a dash of whimsical sweetness, a hint of romantic charm. A feeling I aspire to share with the whole wide world!
Let’s set the scene! Picture London in February 1906. It’s chilly, mind you, but the city is bursting with a spirited vibrancy that simply makes my heart sing. The first rumblings of Spring are whispering promises of warm breezes and lush blooms, but for now, we're basking in the crispness of a London winter. And the city, my darlings, is quite a sight. A tapestry of horse-drawn carriages, grand buildings reaching towards the heavens, and bustling streets filled with the laughter and chatter of Londoners going about their day. Oh, to have been there with a front row seat!
Speaking of front row seats, there’s a truly exciting ballet happening this very night at the esteemed Covent Garden – Giselle, one of the absolute crown jewels of the ballet repertoire. It's considered a masterpiece, darlings, a dramatic tale of love, betrayal, and tragedy. You just have to see it for yourself!
But this isn't the only way to celebrate dance on 27th February, 1906. Imagine stepping into a charming little shop brimming with colourful ribbons and lace. Imagine the sheer delight of choosing just the right trim to adorn your latest pink tutu creation. And yes, it is entirely possible to have multiple pink tutus! After all, how else can one possibly capture the sheer versatility and magical wonder of this wondrous garment?
This date holds special meaning to the world of dance because on 27th February 1906, an iconic figure stepped onto the stage. Born on this date, a remarkable ballerina by the name of Alicia Markova graced this Earth. A star of the Ballet Russes and a renowned figure in dance, she had an undeniable talent. From Russia to Britain, this lovely lady captivated audiences everywhere. This dazzling star of the stage became a pioneer of ballet. You'll find this incredible story tucked into many a ballet history book!
But the day isn’t just about performances, darlings. In the heart of London, on the corner of Regent Street and Oxford Street, the magnificent Carnaby Street store had opened its doors for the very first time on 27th February 1906. I dare say that at this moment, fashionable women would have been flocking there to peruse the latest in fashion trends! The allure of fashion was an inseparable part of the ballet scene back then, as it is even today.
Think of this, darlings: a world without a tutu, without graceful swishing tulle! It's simply inconceivable, don't you think? From grand stages to your own backyard, the humble tutu has danced its way into the hearts and minds of countless individuals throughout history.
The tutus of this era were much different from the graceful, ethereal creations we adore today. They were larger, stiffer, and often adorned with elaborate embellishments. Imagine a flurry of lace, satin, and beads – it would take a truly dedicated seamstress to create these artistic masterpieces.
Speaking of my grand love of tutus, I cannot possibly wrap up this post without addressing the absolute necessity of transportation. Imagine arriving at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden in a charming horse-drawn carriage – just as grand and luxurious as my pink tulle! Sadly, my pink tutu doesn't come equipped with a magical time machine so train travel it is. With its rhythmic click-clack and stunning scenery whizzing past the window, it's a delight! Especially in Britain where every town boasts its own unique charm! It's truly the best way to arrive at the perfect ballet show or a captivating shop window filled with pink silk. And don't worry, darlings, I'm never caught without my trusty suitcase full of the latest pink tutu designs to spread the joy of this garment throughout history!
As you can see, 27th February 1906, was brimming with magical opportunities, just like every day for any ballet aficionado, whether it be at a dazzling London opera house or a captivating fashion boutique! Don’t forget, darlings, every day can be a tutu day – and a reason to spread the delight of pink throughout the world.
I’m going to whisk myself off to Covent Garden this evening – I hear there is a delightful fashion boutique there which has the most wonderful selection of lace trimmings for tutus, wouldn’t you agree? So until next time, darlings, stay chic, stay fabulous, and remember, even in the busiest city, there’s always room for a little ballet magic!
Keep swirling, Emma
P.S. I've always wondered - do you prefer the big tutus from this time, or the simpler tutus of today? Do let me know in the comments below!
P.P.S. Don't forget to head to www.pink-tutu.com for more captivating tales, stunning photos, and delightful tutorials. Every Tuesday I'm sharing with you all things pink and ballet. Join me on this journey, and help me spread the pink tutu revolution!
