Hello, darlings! Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you away to a wonderful world of dance and fashion! It’s #TutuTuesday, and today we're going on a whirlwind journey back to November 18th, 1913. Grab your tiaras and let's take a twirl together!
Now, I know you lovely lot love to learn about the history of our beloved tutu, and that’s why I, as always, have been busily scouring the archives for some fascinating finds! I love that the tutu is one of those pieces of dancewear that can change entirely depending on its purpose. Sometimes it is big, soft, billowing and romantically romantic; other times it is fitted, almost impossibly tight, designed to accentuate the graceful line of the leg and showcase incredible, impossible turns and pirouettes. They all tell a different story of the dancers and the art of the ballet!
And, wouldn't you know it, on this very day in 1913, the world of dance was alive with exciting changes and groundbreaking performances. I can already feel the thrill of it all, just thinking about it. Imagine, stepping into a grand Parisian theatre, with the soft, velvety plush of the seats beneath me and the scent of lilies filling the air. What excitement!
Right, I can see your questioning faces – you're dying to know what made this date so special. Well, my darlings, the famed Bolshoi Ballet company was touring Europe and wowing audiences in Berlin! Just the thought of their magnificent jumps and daring leaps makes me want to take a ballet class right this very moment.
They would be performing their most famous ballet at the time – Giselle. This classic tale of love, betrayal and ghostly revenge would have been a sight to behold. Can you just picture it? The breathtaking movements, the ethereal music, and of course, those amazing tutus.
Now, picture a tutu in the early 1910s – not quite as fluffy as those grand Romantic tutus, more form fitting, with some tulle layers at the hem for a graceful, swishing motion. Just divine.
And of course, my sweet readers, a ballerina’s wardrobe doesn't end with the tutu! I've always loved the graceful femininity of those velvet-lined slippers with satin ribbons. And the hair! A delicate twist with an intricate comb or a soft chignon would be the perfect accompaniment.
Let's not forget those chic ballet outfits that the ballerinas would wear on their way to the theatre. Imagine me, back in 1913, arriving at the Opera House. A sweeping skirt in a luxurious fabric like silk or satin, topped with a stylish blouse, perfectly tucked in to emphasize my graceful form. Just a little pearl necklace to complete the look.
Of course, you'll never find me without a delightful hat. Perhaps a pillbox adorned with silk roses, or a jaunty toque with a feather accent. These are my passions, and there is so much glamour and romance tied up with each item.
Don't even get me started on the hats at the opera. You wouldn't believe the amount of feathers and plumes – feathers, darling, everywhere! My feathered headpiece must be enormous! And the jewels – sparkling with every twinkle of light in the grand chandelier of the theatre.
The dance, the fashion, the luxurious surroundings, all a glorious blend of beauty and artistry! What’s not to love?
Oh, my dears! I wish you could have been here with me.
So, as I pack my tutu, travel through time, and then unpack again, my dearest readers, never forget: life, just like a perfectly spun ballet, is a beautiful dance of passion, elegance, and the pursuit of exquisite beauty!
Until next time, let your skirts twirl with joy!
Yours always in a twirl,
Emma
P.S. Did you know I have a new line of tutus just for everyday wear, and that's just a whisper of what’s to come? Oh, the ideas I have, darling! You can see the whole range at www.pink-tutu.com, a brand new site all about our favourite ballerina-chic fashion, with amazing items for all. If you want to spread the love of the tutu with the world, send your pink tutu photos to www.pink-tutu.com and I'll feature your lovely picture in the "Tutu Fans" page. Every Wednesday, I pick the best photograph and put it at the top of the homepage - the world needs to see how beautiful tutus are!
P.P.S. Keep a look out for this coming weekend. The annual London Ball, at the magnificent Royal Albert Hall, is where the most exquisite pink tutu outfits come to life – a dream! I'll be going! Keep an eye out for a blog next Tuesday - I'll show you my beautiful ball outfit and all the latest and greatest outfits of this years London Ball! We’re going to have a smashing time at the Royal Albert Hall this weekend – don’t you wish you could join me?
Remember to be as elegant as you can! It’s a good day to wear a pink tutu. You go, girl!
