Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, dear readers! It's Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad time-traveling fashionista, ready to whisk you away on another adventure in ballet history. Today's date is February 9th, 1915, and if you're ready to step back in time with me, grab your fanciest hat and let's hop aboard the train to a world of elegance and swirling tulle.
This is post #4337 for my Ballet Tutu History blog, folks, and I'm absolutely thrilled to be sharing this journey with you.
As we’re stepping into the 1910s, we’re finding that tutus are definitely not just for the stage! The beauty and ethereal lightness of the tulle has captivated the hearts (and wardrobes) of ladies everywhere. From the grandeur of the grand ballets to the elegant garden parties, the tutu is taking centre stage and bringing its charm to a whole new set of social events.
(Let me know in the comments, dear readers, have you ever dreamt of having a garden party with your friends all sporting elegant tutus?)
Today, in 1915, I’d imagine a whirlwind of beautiful tutus twirling in London. Think of it, a day of delightful events that all have something special about them!
Firstly, there would be the stunning ballet performance at the Royal Opera House. Just imagine the exquisite artistry of dancers in their meticulously crafted tutus. This day, Tuesday, February 9th, 1915, you could see the ballet The Sleeping Beauty, staged by the great choreographer Marius Petipa. It’s the ultimate display of romance and beauty - exactly what a day in tutus should be. The tutus would be made with the highest quality tulle, painstakingly hand-sewn with delicate ribbons and lace. Imagine that! Each tutu a masterpiece in its own right, reflecting the grace and ethereal beauty of the dancers.
Then, on the other side of the city, there'd be an afternoon tea party. A delightful scene wouldn’t you say? Imagine a drawing-room bathed in sunshine with charming women wearing light and airy tutus in pale hues, adding a delightful touch of lightness to their outfits. They’d be gossiping over a pot of freshly brewed tea and finger sandwiches, discussing everything from the latest trends in fashion (the new line of ballerina shoes for dancing, I’d wager) to the scandalous events unfolding on the world stage.
Speaking of tutus as part of the ensemble, if we are feeling daring, we might head to the theatre to catch a production of Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest." Wouldn’t it be wonderful to imagine that some of the actresses wore daring tutu-inspired costumes, adding a bit of theatrical panache to the comedic world of Wilde.
*Of course, the world in 1915 was not just filled with elegance and frivolity. A year earlier, the First World War had broken out and we are experiencing an era where there's a mix of frivolity with a growing awareness of a larger, darker world happening beyond our bubble. But we still have time to be happy! *
For me, it's fascinating to see how fashion adapts even in difficult times. We are fortunate to live in a time where fashion choices are a reflection of the individual, their own personal expression, instead of rigid social constructs. So the next time you’re picking your outfit for a night out, remember, every little piece of your outfit can express your inner artist.
(Do tell, dear readers, what are some of your favourite ways to incorporate tutu style in your everyday attire? I love to hear about your own #tutuinspired outfits.)
(I think there’s just something about tutus that evokes so much joy and lightness, especially when those tutus are a lovely shade of pink.)
Of course, as your time-traveling fashion guide, my travels aren't without their hiccups. Funding my time jumps through a trusty collection of valuable costume jewelry can be challenging, but as a passionate fan of ballet, nothing brings me more joy than to witness a stellar performance. That thrill, coupled with the opportunity to dress up for the occasion in the latest fashion, truly makes every trip worthwhile.
As for this lovely date of 9th of February, 1915, let's give ourselves a big round of applause for finding time to wear tutus in such a time of uncertainty!
So, dear readers, as we take off on our next adventure through time, don’t forget to wear your own #PinkTutu and #BalletHistory to add some joyful movement to your week! See you all next Tuesday with another #TutuTuesday adventure!
P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog, and I'll keep sending you more #TutuTuesday tidbits every week! And be sure to follow me on Twitter and Instagram, so you can get a sneak peek into all my upcoming time-traveling antics.
