Hello, my darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com! I’m your host, Emma, straight from the Derbyshire Dales but currently dancing my way through history in my sparkly pink leotard. This month, I'm off to the City of Lights – Paris – to discover what leotard fashions were making waves in the year 1879! Get ready for some real fashion history!
Remember my mantra? Pink Tutus For All! And that includes the fashionistas of the past! Now, imagine my surprise when I found out that even back in the 1870s, Parisian ladies were totally embracing a similar style that would later be dubbed "Leotard"!
Imagine this: tight-fitting, sleek silhouettes, made with beautiful fabrics like silk and satin. Of course, there was no "Leotard" tag just yet – it wouldn’t get that name for a couple more decades! Back in 1879, these lovely garments were mostly known as "basques," or "bodices." These were meant to be worn underneath an elegant skirt, adding a touch of sculpted beauty beneath the flow.
However, I found myself utterly charmed by how many ladies embraced the bodice for a more “athletic” look, pairing it with bloomers instead of a skirt! Imagine these "bodices," much like a modern-day leotard, showcasing the grace of the female form in its active motion. I wouldn’t be surprised if a few Parisian ladies secretly practiced some pirouettes, embracing the athleticism of the times!
Paris, my love, is simply teeming with elegance. Even though tutus haven’t quite made their grand entrance onto the world stage yet (oh, how I yearn for that moment!), I couldn't resist taking in the captivating beauty of the Parisian ballet. The Opéra Garnier – it’s absolutely breathtaking, both the building and the performance! The ladies at the theatre, with their elaborate hairstyles, grand ballgowns, and luxurious jewelry… truly mesmerising.
Did you know that back then, ballet performances were much more than just graceful twirls and stunning choreography? It was about elaborate stories being brought to life. I had the most delightful time taking in the “La Source” ballet at the Opéra Garnier, based on the captivating legend of the nymph of a spring. It’s quite magical, honestly. Seeing those ladies – they look like fairies! A testament to the enduring charm of the ballet form – and it all started right here in Paris!
Now, back to my adventures in the city of love! To top off my explorations of this wonderful era, I treated myself to a truly exquisite Parisian luncheon, just the kind you would see in the most fashionable illustrations. Think light snacks and beautifully adorned teacups - very chic! Of course, no trip to Paris is complete without shopping – and oh, darling, what a shopping trip it was! Parisian boutiques, bustling with lace, silk, and velvet! Even though tutus haven’t quite emerged yet, I had my eyes set on a spectacular lilac silk gown with intricate lace details, which I knew would be absolutely perfect for the grand gala event later in the week – I had the absolute pleasure of being invited to attend a luxurious Parisian ball. Imagine – the waltzing, the laughter, the exquisite elegance… I’m going to look absolutely glamorous!
I found a delicate pair of silver satin gloves for my outing – so lovely. And wouldn't you know it, I discovered an amazing shop, just filled with the most exquisite hats. The most extraordinary, beautiful wide-brimmed straw hat trimmed with a ribbon adorned with the sweetest pink and lilac bow caught my eye immediately, it was as if it were made for my pink tutu.
I also visited a most curious milliner's shop where they had the most wondrous collection of headpieces – the most elaborate hats with feathered accents. Truly breathtaking – just wait till I show you pictures in my next post!
So, dear readers, until my next journey through time, do keep my mantra in your heart, "Pink Tutus For All!" Keep an eye on Pink-Tutu.com. Let me know your favourite Parisian stories in the comments. And remember, whether you're twirling in a pink tutu at a Parisian gala or admiring a vintage Parisian gown in a museum, a touch of elegance always adds joy to life! Until then, be fabulous, darling!
