Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, bringing you another installment of #TutuTuesday. Today, we're taking a delightful train journey back to October 6th, 1908, to discover a world where the tutu was in its prime. It's Blog Post Number 4006 on www.pink-tutu.com – wow, I can't believe I've shared so many tutu tales!
As always, my time travel adventures are funded by my ballet performances. I've been lucky to travel all over the world, from the glittering stages of Paris to the bustling theatres of New York, but this week, I've found myself in Saint Petersburg, Russia – a place that truly understands the magic of the tutu.
Now, picture this: cobbled streets lined with stunning, grand buildings, a crisp autumn air, and the most delicious pastries. I simply cannot resist a trip to the theatre, can I? This week, it's the Mariinsky Theatre, home to one of the world's most esteemed ballet companies, the Mariinsky Ballet. Imagine the grandeur, the history, the anticipation – it’s enough to make any ballet-loving heart flutter.
The Ballet Tutu in 1908: Elegance in Motion
You might be surprised to learn that in 1908, tutus weren't the light, flowing creations we adore today. Oh no, dear friends! These were still very much the Romantic era, meaning lots of layers and tulle. The dancers looked positively ethereal!
Think a graceful cascade of soft, billowing tulle, often tiered, held up by a close-fitting bodice, and yes, a little less pink than you might expect. Back then, they preferred a creamy white, ivory, or even pale blush. Imagine a pastel dream, like a fluffy cloud of loveliness swirling on stage!
They might not have had as many colours, but believe me, their craftsmanship was top notch. Think elaborate hand-sewn designs, delicate embellishments like lace and ribbon, and intricate details like pleated, layered tulle. A real triumph of needle and thread.
1908 – A Glimpse of Ballet History
The date 6th October, 1908, was a Tuesday (lucky me, perfect for a #TutuTuesday post, don't you think?) but sadly, there aren’t any notable premieres or significant events to report from that specific date. But what I can tell you, dear readers, is that this year in Saint Petersburg, the Mariinsky Ballet would have been presenting its iconic repertoire - the classics like “Swan Lake,” “Sleeping Beauty,” and “The Nutcracker”. These ballets were truly the pinnacle of artistry at the time and even today, we’re mesmerized by their elegance and enduring beauty.
Imagine watching legendary ballerinas, their graceful movements highlighted by their layered tulle tutus, embodying characters we know and love! It's like being transported to a different time – a world of fairy tales, princesses, and exquisite art.
Fashion & Ballet in 1908
While we're on the topic of the theatre, 1908 was all about glamorous “Theatre Dress”. It was the golden age of fashion, darling, and going to the ballet wasn’t just about seeing a performance. It was a fashion spectacle.
I imagine myself stepping into the grand foyer, ladies sporting gowns with beautiful beaded embellishments, exquisite hats adorned with feathers and jewels, men in their best tuxedos – it was like stepping out of a painting! I just love that the tutu inspired not just dance but the overall atmosphere of beauty and elegance!
My Tutu Tuesday Fashion Inspiration
I’ve taken a little bit of fashion inspiration from this trip, as you can see in my outfit. While we’re focusing on pale hues and tulle in our 1908 exploration, my pink tutu (it is #TutuTuesday, after all!) still has its moment in this historical setting! I’ve paired it with a vintage-style top, complete with a beautiful ribbon, and a wide, blush-toned hat to complete my outfit. You don’t need to travel through time to bring a little bit of old-world glamour to your look, darlings!
My Pink Tutu Message:
It's this spirit of beauty and elegance, both on and off the stage, that keeps me going in my pink tutu travels, and inspires my goal: To bring a little more joy, sparkle, and movement into the world – all by inspiring you, my darlings, to wear a pink tutu at least once in your life.
After all, even the grandest ballet company in the world had a time when their tutus were a bit less bold! Don't be afraid to try something new, something a little bit different. We've all got our own stories to tell!
See you next #TutuTuesday, darlings! Until then, keep swirling!
Love, Emma.
P.S. Follow me on Instagram @pinktutublogger for even more photos of my travels and fashion inspiration!
Don’t forget to share your tutu moments with me using the hashtag #TutuTuesday! I can’t wait to see your pink twirls.
