Hello dearies! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here, bringing you another fabulous instalment of Pink Tutu Travels! Today we're twirling back to February the 2nd, 1828. Hold onto your tiaras, my loves, as we step into the heart of the Romantic era and experience the enchanting world of ballet!
(Remember you can find all my posts on www.pink-tutu.com. This one is number 2006!)
This month, my journey takes me to the beautiful city of Paris, a centre of artistic brilliance and, you guessed it, fabulous fashion! Magic Meg, my sparkling pink Shire horse with golden hooves and a white mane like spun silk, is as eager as I am for this Parisian escapade. My leather rucksack is ready to be filled with tales and trinkets from the era.
(Don't forget to keep your eye out for the special "Pink Tutu Tip" section at the end of this post! It’s going to be a beauty.)
A Whirlwind of Romance:
Imagine a stage awash with light, the delicate flutter of tulle and satin as dancers gracefully move like flowers swaying in the breeze. This, my dears, is the romantic era of ballet. Forget the strict formality of earlier ballet; it’s all about flowing movement, heartfelt storytelling, and the triumph of the individual.
One of the stars of this ballet universe, Marie Taglioni, is the very definition of elegance and grace. Known as the 'goddess of dance', Marie was all about ethereal movements and emotions. And yes, dearies, even her iconic ballet costume—the iconic white tulle tutu, a precursor to the famous pink version, was considered scandalously short!
Now, if you can imagine the fashion world as equally daring and romantic, you’ve captured the essence of the time. Think frills, floral patterns, delicate silks, and the occasional sprinkling of the beautiful, oh-so-elegant shade of pink.
Dancing in Paris:
We're fortunate to have arrived in Paris during an exciting time for ballet. The Théâtre de l’Opéra, the very centre of Parisian culture, was abuzz with ballet fever. Marie Taglioni’s performances were the talk of the town, with everyone rushing to catch a glimpse of her iconic dancing style.
Oh, the crowds! Everyone seemed to be wearing a variation on the fashionable attire of the day – beautiful silks, velvet bodices, delicate shawls, and of course, hats that were quite frankly larger than most of the ladies themselves! And the gentlemen? Well, they looked as dapper as ever in their well-tailored coats, trousers, and pocket squares. The colour pink was just starting to make its appearance and boy was it stunning. A few of the bolder ladies even sported a pink sash around their waist, or a touch of pink in their hats. Just a sprinkle, but enough to make them stand out.
(Don't forget, my loves, you can see these fabulous looks for yourself on my Pinterest board at Pinterest.com/pink-tutu. It's filled with gorgeous illustrations and period photos!)
I was lucky to score some fabulous tickets to see Taglioni perform La Sylphide – the very first true romantic ballet, which features a hauntingly beautiful, mystical story about a magical forest nymph. Oh, I can't tell you how much I was moved by her delicate, flowing movements! Just think, all this on pointe shoes. Now, I am all for wearing heels, but not for all night dancing like she did! I definitely need to buy myself a new pair of pink pointe shoes and have a go, and why not do it while dressed in a delightful, frilly, pale pink tutu!
(There's a "Pink Tutu Time Capsule" coming your way at the end of the post. We’re adding a touch of 1828 magic to your everyday lives! )
Pink Tutu Tip of the Month:
Dance Like You Mean It!
If you’re reading this, you must love ballet, darling! It's so much more than a form of art - it's about expression, it’s about elegance, and most of all, it’s about passion!
So, when you’re out there in class or on the stage, channel your inner Marie Taglioni, dance with joy and let your heart express your love for this beautiful art form!
The Pink Tutu Time Capsule
For my "Pink Tutu Time Capsule," this month, I've chosen a few things to inspire your inner 1828 Parisian fashionista:
Embroidered silk scarves: A splash of pink in the form of floral embroidery adds the perfect touch of femininity to any outfit.
Elegant fan: Not only fashionable but practical! (Just be sure it doesn’t take a tumble into the punch bowl, dear.)
Rosary beads: The romantic period loved dainty touches and little details – how charming and delicate!
Remember, my loves, that fashion is all about personality and flair! Don't be afraid to experiment and let your inner ballerina shine!
* Until next month, keep twirling, keep shimmering, and remember to keep dancing to your heart's content!*
(Stay tuned, dearies, for a brand new post on my Pink Tutu Travels on www.pink-tutu.com next month. And don't forget, every purchase of a tutu supports my adventures in time! )
With a twirl and a smile,
Emma
