Post #72 - www.pink-tutu.com
Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, back with another fabulous journey through the annals of time in my sparkling pink time-traveling leotard. December is always a month for glitz, glamour, and glorious fashion, and this month we're taking a trip back to 12th December 1864, a date bursting with historical intrigue and fashion fun!
Let’s grab our pink tutus and hop aboard the time machine! This time, I’m sporting my custom-made Victorian-inspired tutu. I had it especially designed with exquisite lace details and layers of blush pink tulle. It’s perfect for travelling back in time!
As I twirl through the portal and land in 1864, my senses are filled with the intoxicating aroma of coal smoke and a heady blend of Christmas cheer and Victorian elegance. The streets are buzzing with Christmas preparations - bustling markets selling seasonal goods, the first tentative twinkling of Christmas lights, and children huddled around window displays showcasing toys for the festive season. The atmosphere is a delightful blend of warmth, anticipation, and that signature Victorian stoicism!
Now, you all know how I absolutely love my leotards! So naturally, I couldn't wait to check out the current leotard fashion scene in 1864. And what a fascinating journey it's been!
Leotard fashion in the Victorian era was a world apart from our current era, but that's what makes it so exciting to discover! There was no such thing as a ‘leotard’ as we know it. However, dance and theatre costume was starting to move away from heavy layers and cumbersome skirts! This paved the way for an exciting era of change in performance apparel, and you guessed it - it started to be influenced by those clever and creative French ladies! The term "Leotard" is often linked to French circus performer Jules Léotard, who wore a form-fitting one-piece outfit designed for aerial acrobatics around 1859, but the exact history and use of the garment is debatable. We can say for sure, it is heavily linked to athletic and performing arts throughout history.
What was a ballerina's uniform in 1864? Let me tell you, it was truly an ode to beauty and movement. Instead of sleek one-piece costumes, dancers were dressed in luxurious gowns with full skirts, often constructed of delicate materials like satin, lace, and tulle. The skirts would have intricate details - elaborate ruffles, layers, and panniers creating graceful volumes, making each twirl a spectacle. A key design aspect of this era was "The Crinoline", a fabric-structured hoop skirt worn underneath, adding incredible volume and making the dancer’s form truly spectacular.
In the world of dance and ballet, we start seeing the influence of romantic ballet, particularly in its costuming! It’s characterized by lightweight, billowing dresses made from luxurious silk or delicate gauze. Ballet was more about flowing movements than precise, acrobatic displays.
One of the iconic figures of the Victorian dance era, Madame Carolina Rosati, an Italian dancer, was a celebrated artist in her day. Her grace, elegance, and stunning beauty graced many stages throughout the era, inspiring many of us to appreciate the history of dance!
Now, on this December 12th in 1864, you'd be in for a treat if you attended the Covent Garden Opera House in London. You could have witnessed a performance of Charles Gounod's masterpiece - Faust! I can imagine the dramatic scenery, the powerful arias and the beautiful ballet sequences within the production - an absolute spectacle of sound and performance!
And speaking of spectacles, don't think for a moment that dance was only enjoyed on grand stages in Victorian England! This era was filled with balls, dances, and entertainment in public spaces! From private gatherings in beautiful Victorian ballrooms to bustling music halls showcasing exciting variety acts, dancing was integral to Victorian social life. You could be part of a lavish waltzing display, enjoy a spirited polka, or watch mesmerized as dancers executed complex and intricate quadrilles. It's no wonder that dancers and performers became such captivating figures.
Although we haven’t quite reached the peak of the leotard era, we’ve already started to see its potential in this beautiful period! The shift toward less restrictive clothing in the 1860s was just the beginning!
As I twirl back to my own time, I'm so full of inspiration from this historical fashion journey! I feel more than ever how crucial evolution, creativity, and of course, pink tutus, are to celebrating dance through the ages!
Now, until next month’s adventures through the annals of time in my fabulous, sparkly pink leotard, let's get those pink tutus twirling and continue to celebrate dance and its stunning evolution. Be sure to stay tuned to www.pink-tutu.com for all your pink tutu needs and of course - be sure to share your favourite tutu looks with me!
