Hello my darling darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu, your weekly dose of all things tutu and ballet! This is Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-wearing, time-travelling, ballet enthusiast extraordinaire! Today is Tuesday, so that means it's #TutuTuesday, the day we delve into the fascinating world of tutu history!
I must say, my latest trip has filled me with inspiration! I just returned from 1907 - a gloriously glamorous era with breathtaking fashion and incredible performances. This is post number 3927 for you! I post every week on Tuesday. Did you know that the ballet has existed for over 500 years? So many dances, stories and outfits! It is fascinating to follow this world!
Back in 1907: A Glamorous Affair
Just stepping out of my time-travelling train carriage onto the platform at Charing Cross station in London, I knew this was going to be a good day! The city buzzed with energy - the scent of fresh bread and a hint of floral perfume lingered in the air, and the sounds of horse-drawn carriages and chatter filled the streets. Today’s Londoners certainly knew how to dress up! Fashion was all about flowing lines, elegant fabrics and a sense of carefree whimsy.
And what could be more whimsically charming than a beautiful tutu? Back in 1907, the world of ballet was thriving. This was the era of the great ballerinas, and what better place to immerse myself in ballet history than London? The ballet world was abuzz with the latest creations, a whole new style of dancing and lots of discussion!
The Changing World of Tutus
1907 was a fascinating turning point in tutu history! Up until the late 19th century, tutus were longer and fuller, making for some truly graceful, swirling movement. But as dance styles started to change with faster, more technical steps, the tutu had to adapt too! In this period, ballerinas were increasingly experimenting with the length and shape of the tutu. We're beginning to see the classic “romantic tutu” of the earlier centuries becoming shorter, making more of a 'bell' shape, giving more movement and flexibility. The tutus are beginning to appear more in silk than in gauze, and lighter colours are starting to dominate over the darker colours of the 19th century.
From Silk and Satin to Ballet Bliss!
But let's not forget - tutus are not just about performance. Shopping in the London shops in 1907 was such an adventure! It was impossible to leave a haberdashery shop without a new ribbon or a few metres of lovely lace to add to your tutu. I love the mix of vintage elegance and a touch of 1900s flair. And the shop windows were stunning! Full of colourful displays showcasing the newest fabric and trims for dresses, hats, and of course, ballet shoes and tutus!
And on to the theater! I had to see the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. The crowds that gathered before each performance were spectacular, and I certainly picked up some tips on how to coordinate a stylish hat and feather boa with your favourite tutu! Inside the opera house, the grand architecture and the opulence took my breath away. The audience was filled with glittering socialites, elegant gentlemen and - of course - enthusiastic dance lovers. I particularly love how a performance of ballet would attract people from across all sectors of society. This artform really appealed to everybody. It was amazing to see so many different styles in the audience – beautiful ball gowns and sharp suits, plus the occasional flash of colour in the form of an amazing pink tutu, like mine!
The Performance that Had Me Swooning
And oh, the ballet! I saw the Royal Ballet performing Giselle, one of my favourite ballet classics. The romantic story and the expressive dances took me straight back to my very first ballet class as a young girl. And the ballerinas danced with such ethereal grace! They seemed to be floating on air as they performed every delicate gesture and breathtaking leap. I even got the chance to see a few well-known ballerinas in the audience - it is incredible the power that this art form can evoke in people. Ballet truly transports me, it’s the most beautiful, graceful art form!
And to be in 1907 - a turning point in tutu history and for ballet as an artform - well that was the cherry on top of a delightful tutu cake. Every day was a fashion show! This whole experience, a beautiful journey, filled me with such joy! And just like all my other trips through history, the sheer delight I felt when watching these performers left me utterly inspired! And inspired is the key word!
Fashion Tips for Every Ballet Lover
My darlings, I learned a valuable lesson this trip. And not only in terms of fashion! We need to be bolder with our style, and try something a little different – and you never know where it might take you. Ballet in particular is about trying new things and pushing yourself to the limit! I would love for all of you to consider these 1907 ideas! A dash of whimsy and a good sprinkle of glitter can really enhance a simple pink tutu! Think of these elements:
Ribbon and Lace: If your tutu feels too simple, you can always enhance it with some ribbons or lace. Imagine bows and ruffles, the extra textures just elevate the elegance and sophistication!
Hats, Gloves and Bags: A well-chosen hat and gloves make all the difference when stepping out. And when shopping, let’s go all out, you may want to bring a chic clutch, perhaps some beads or an elegant fan!
Flouncy Ruffles and Beautiful Frills: The fabric choice for the skirt itself is important too. Think silks, satins, tulle! Let the movement and texture dance with your graceful leaps!
Making Our Dreams Take Flight!
I want to see everyone on the streets in pink tutus. And this inspiration isn’t just about our wardrobes – it’s about daring to do what we love, trying something new and discovering our own individual brilliance, whether it's at the ballet studio or on a train journey through time! And don't forget - keep those pink tutus ready for any adventures.
That's all for now my lovely ladies! Don’t forget to follow Pink-Tutu for weekly updates on my blog, all things ballet and more tutu fashion inspirations!
Stay fashionable and embrace the joy of a perfectly pink tutu!
Love, Emma 💖🩰
