Hello my lovely leotard lovers!
September, oh September...the air is getting crisper, the leaves are turning, and the scent of autumn is in the air. What a wonderful time to be a ballerina! But as a ballerina who time travels, it also means a whole new era to explore.
Today, I’m whisked back to 09 September 1891 - an exciting day for fashion, let me tell you. In fact, you might say it’s the day tutus first stole the show!
As I stepped out of my magical pink sparkling leotard, I landed in the middle of a bustling London street, with an aroma of fish and chips tantalising my senses. It felt a bit surreal - carriages trundling past, ladies in elaborate dresses and top hats galore, but then, as if I was seeing things, I saw a flash of tulle, an air of ethereal grace...ballet was everywhere!
My heart soared - could this be a sign of the dawn of a new ballet era?
Well, I did a little research, you see, and turns out I've arrived right in the middle of something HUGE! On this day, 09 September 1891, the world's first official ballet school, the 'Académie de Danse Classque', opened its doors in London. This is the stuff of legend, my darlings!
This grand affair was headed by the celebrated dancer Madame Eugénie Fould, who'd toured the world captivating audiences with her grace and poise. I couldn’t believe my lucky stars! I’ve always adored the romantic and dramatic style of this era, and there I was, standing in the middle of its beginning!
As I wandered the streets, mesmerized by the grand Victorian architecture, my senses were on fire - everywhere I looked, there were leotard variations that screamed elegance, sophistication, and beauty.
Ladies were wearing tutus, a far cry from the flowing creations you see today. Think fitted, delicate, and undeniably feminine. These Victorian tutus hugged the curves, with the layers of tulle perfectly complimenting the bodice. My pink-tutu loving heart just couldn't take it! They reminded me of a symphony of graceful pink petals, and it's safe to say they truly were the definition of fancy.
Even the streets were alive with the ballet buzz. A theatre production had just wrapped, showcasing a grand performance called "La Source." Can you even imagine?! To witness the evolution of ballet firsthand, in its beautiful early stages...it truly made me believe that a pink tutu truly can transport you to any time period, to any era!*
My day in 1891:
I knew I had to take this magical experience one step further. So I decided to blend in, embrace the elegance and style of this golden age, and share my passion for pink tutus!
Firstly, I visited the Academy of Dance Classque. Just stepping inside felt like I was entering another world! I was surrounded by eager young ladies in various styles of practice attire, their eyes sparkling with ambition and their forms gracefully stretching and flowing in the perfect, harmonious ballet manner.
Then, I took a trip to Madame Eugénie Fould's private salon – a whirlwind of elegance and charm! The luxurious dresses, stunning accessories, and the breathtaking selection of ballet outfits left me completely enchanted. The walls were lined with tutus of every shape and colour imaginable. From graceful flowing creations to exquisitely-tailored, shimmering masterpieces - it was like a ballerina's paradise! Madame Fould herself was incredibly welcoming and even gave me a peek at the latest ballet designs – they were truly captivating, each a piece of wearable art!
I managed to blend in so well, that I ended up becoming part of an intimate gathering. We all sat and chatted, sharing stories, giggling over cups of tea, and, yes, even attempting a little ballet performance in our own unique leotard variations! The highlight was, of course, dancing in my pink sparkly leotard amongst these elegant ladies - my own homage to a magnificent era in leotard history!
Then, I wandered into the Royal Opera House and just happened to catch a glimpse of the divine Auguste Vestris, an exceptional dancer at the time. You can bet I was swooning.
My darling Leotard Lovers, it really was the day for pink! The Victorian era really seemed to embrace the pink aesthetic - you'll find pink lace details on many costumes and even, pink accents on some of the men's formal attire. Who knew that pink could be so sophisticated?! I couldn't believe my luck! I just felt like I was right at home, surrounded by the most magnificent leotards. I was like a little ballet butterfly in a vintage flower garden.
As the night descended, I strolled back through the glittering city lights. It was just a short glimpse into a historical moment that had a profound effect on the future of ballet. I have so many amazing photos that I’ll post for you all on the Pink Tutu Blog, so you can all marvel at this extraordinary time travel journey!
Don’t forget to share your love for leotards, dance, and the world of ballet. And don’t forget to embrace the beautiful world of the past and, like I said, wear that pink tutu with confidence!
Until next month, darlings, happy twirling!
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
