Hey darlings! Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing, time-travelling fashionista, ready to whisk you back to the Victorian era! This month's trip takes us all the way back to February 2nd, 1863 - oh, the excitement!
This post is a real treat, my lovelies, because 1863 saw some truly revolutionary leaps in leotard fashion, all part of a story woven from a thread of innovation and the sheer magic of movement!
This time, I had to don my most shimmering pink sparkling leotard. This one's my favourite, adorned with sequined stars and moons. The light from those tiny gemstones cast a magic spell over me as I zoomed through time, feeling like I was dancing on a celestial carpet. My trusty, ever-so-pink tutu was of course billowing around me, the fabric swirling around me like whispers of the past, just like it always does.
Now, for all my newbie time-travellers: it's vital you have the right look for each era! Think of it as a costume, only it's about celebrating the history of fashion in its most flattering, feminine form! You'll have a lot more fun - believe me! - and it helps you blend in, which is important if you're on the hunt for a piece of historical fashion magic.
So, off I went, through time and into the captivating atmosphere of the Victorian era!
And oh my darlings, let me tell you, 1863 was quite a year! It was all about daring change!
Firstly, let’s talk ballet. Yes, that was my main reason for hopping on this particular journey! Ballet was starting to be the talk of the town back in 1863. Now, you might be surprised to learn it hadn't always been this popular. It was the 1860s where the popularity of the dance form really began to spread and reach wider audiences!
The biggest change came with the introduction of what they called the "bloomer." Now, before we get carried away, the bloomers in 1863 were not at all like what we wear today. We are talking baggy, almost clownish trousers. I thought about slipping into a pair and joining a street show with those wide legs. It looked fun and freeing - that sense of being almost unstoppable.
These "bloomers," you see, were meant to be worn under the ballerina's tutu. Yes, those lovely billowing skirts were being lifted and underneath we could see these wonderfully practical trousers, giving ballerinas that extra freedom and elegance. Imagine swirling with ease, and oh! I could have worn them all day long, dancing from London to Derbyshire in a glorious swirl of pink!
In fact, you know what? This idea for a future travel adventure - it might be just the inspiration for my next trip! I’ve been dying to go to the National Ballet School in London! It’s famous for its history, and its stunning modern dance halls. Maybe, in 2023, they will let me join a dance session, in full pink, of course! I’ll let you all know what happens.
I've been getting some really nice feedback, by the way, from the people I meet during my time travelling. My followers adore my fashion! It’s so much fun hearing about the difference in reactions. In the past, my brightly coloured, frilly dresses and tutus must have seemed shocking! My dear friend Susan - she's my personal assistant back in 2023 - was quite surprised that I even survived some of the places and times I visited, with my bold outfit choices. "Pink, really, Emma? You couldn’t find a safer colour? " was her most repeated comment. Of course, Susan loves me and understands I simply can't help but sparkle, but it was all about embracing individuality. Even in a historical setting. I mean, there were those fabulous Victorians in their bonnets! So much inspiration, right?
And it's true that my tutus are all the rage with the time travelling set - and what do you know? Now the bloomers are gaining popularity again! This whole new trend! This new look, these daring trousers – it just proves the power of individuality, of expressing yourself through the magic of fashion! You know I’m a total sucker for history. So to see something so influential to the development of the modern ballet dress has me mesmerized. And this trend! It’s a real reminder of how quickly fashions come and go – that we are all dancing with the tides of style! You know I love this stuff. It’s my lifeblood, and why I choose this crazy journey – to explore this glorious fashion evolution, even with my brightly coloured outfit.
Now, before we say goodbye - my next time travelling jaunt will be just in time for Paris Fashion Week. Oh la la! That is if I get the money. You see, after a time travelling jaunt I do tend to end up on an exciting shopping spree, which costs, believe me. That’s why, if you ever see me around town, a bit ragged, wearing a pink tutu, it is probably a week before one of my grand trips and I'm raising money by dancing.
As you know, this blog is about celebrating fashion, so before we head back to the 21st century, here are some tips on bringing a bit of Victorian style into your wardrobe:
Embroidered Flowers
Oh my darlings! Flowers are the most enchanting touch for any time traveller’s outfit! Whether you’re in Victorian London or strolling through the streets of Paris, embrace a floral flair. You can sew floral patches onto a tutu for a splash of colour, or embellish a bodice with embroidery or appliqué! And don't forget a headband! And a floral hair clip! They give off a gorgeous timeless appeal.
A Little Bit Of Lace
Ah, the delicate beauty of lace! In the Victorian era, lace was as much about craftsmanship and status as it was about looks. You can use it to add elegance to your clothing – lace trimmings to add a refined finish. Don’t forget, this material comes in a fabulous array of textures and designs, from intricate Chantilly lace to beautiful tatting, and let's not forget crochet - your only limitation is your imagination.
Puffed Sleeves
The puffed sleeve, oh yes, it's another essential element! Add a touch of romantic elegance to any outfit, whether it’s a ballet leotard or a glamorous street outfit! I'm a huge fan of Victorian era romanticism – puffed sleeves are pure glamour.
So, off I pop, until my next trip, I’ll see you on my Pink-Tutu.com site soon! Love Emma
P.S If you haven't done so already, follow me on Instagram and Twitter for live updates of all my exciting time travel adventures.
