Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina, Emma, here! May the 5th is always a special day for me - not only because it's my grandmother's birthday, but because it's the anniversary of a truly amazing ballet discovery!
Remember how I said my aim in life was to get everyone wearing a pink tutu? Well, today I'm sharing a story that might just bring me one step closer! It all started on this day, way back in 1694. My trusty steed, Magic Meg - you know, the pink sparkling Shire horse with the golden hooves and white mane and tail? Well, she galloped me right to the heart of France, a bustling little town called Rouen. I was armed with my trusty leather rucksack, ready to collect all the ballet secrets this era had to offer.
I couldn't wait to discover what was happening in the world of dance at the time! Imagine, darling, no tutu-clad ballerinas on stage yet, but a vibrant theatrical world, ripe with intrigue. And speaking of intrigue, let me tell you about a woman named Mademoiselle de Beauvais! She wasn't a dancer, mind you, but a costume designer of the highest caliber. Now, picture this: she created costumes for plays, extravagant spectacles, and even those gorgeous ballet-like dances that were so popular in the French court. And darling, her creations? Absolutely divine! Silk, satin, velvets, and plumes - a veritable explosion of beauty! She was known for her dramatic, ornate gowns with huge, wide skirts, the kind that would make even a princess feel like royalty. And just imagine, these gowns might have been the inspiration for the tutus we know and love today! It's the closest thing to our beloved tutu-topia I found this century, and I couldn't have been more delighted!
While there weren't full-blown ballet productions, the dances in these theatrical performances were fascinating! It was all about elegant, graceful movements, with some playful steps and intricate footwork that would put any modern ballerina to the test! Imagine beautiful court ladies in their billowing, dazzling outfits, weaving and swirling like butterflies. No need for pointe shoes here, my dears, just stylish pumps and high heels - talk about a new ballet trend!
Now, what would a ballet time-travelling blogger be without a little ballet shopping, wouldn't you say? My eyes were wide with excitement when I discovered the beautiful fabrics available in the markets. Ribbons and lace galore! I couldn't resist picking up some silks in soft blush pink and rose, perfect for future tutus! Remember that I do finance my travels with ballet performances, so a little shopping never hurts. I must say, the craftsmanship of those fabrics, darling, exquisite! You simply cannot beat hand-woven silk! I plan to recreate the elegant gowns I saw in my very own pink colour palette – imagine how wonderful a ballet show featuring de Beauvais-inspired tutus would be! A touch of history with a touch of pink - simply divine!
Back at my cosy Derbyshire home, after my exciting French escapade, I spent hours admiring my new silk treasure and designing new tutu designs! Just think: maybe someday we can have a special pink tutu inspired by Mademoiselle de Beauvais' work! Now, I know some of you might be hesitant about this particular piece of ballet history. Some might think ballet is about graceful movements, beautiful shoes, and not about a flashy outfit. However, I like to see things in a more colourful way, a way that would inspire us all to wear pink tutus, from the street to the stage. I always say, "Embrace the power of a pink tutu!"
That's all for this month, darlings! But be sure to check back next month for more pink-tutu adventures, more ballet fashion, and of course, a peek into the ever-expanding world of ballet history. And, most importantly, never forget the magic of a pink tutu - you just might discover your own time travel!
Until next time,
Emma x
