Hello, darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you away to the delights of fashion history. This month, I'm swirling back to the 1890s, a time when corsetry reigned supreme, and ballet was beginning to blossom. We're venturing to 6th June 1897, a date I've been itching to explore for ages!
This month, my time-travelling, pink-sparkling leotard landed me right in the middle of bustling London, and wouldn't you know it, there's a show at the Alhambra Theatre. It's not just any show though, this is the famed "Carmen" by the one and only, Madame Carlotta Patti di Patti, an operatic sensation! A sneak peek into the theatre, through the shimmer of the shimmering pink tulle of my magical tutu, reveals exquisite gowns and dazzling costumes - just my style! I must say, the opulence of this period really is something else, my darlings.
But you see, my heart truly belongs to the ballet, and this date marks a crucial moment for our beloved form of dance! Today marks the opening night of "Giselle," at the Imperial Theatre, starring the glorious Italian dancer, Pierina Legnani. She's famed for her phenomenal technique and ability to execute a series of daring fouettés (imagine those, my dears, just imagine!)
Naturally, I snuck a peek backstage, my pink tutu shimmering with excitement! Now, let's delve into the fashion. It's important to remember that in 1897, ballet costumes were undergoing a major transformation. Gone were the cumbersome, heavy, floor-length gowns. Enter, the streamlined leotard and tutu! This revolution, darling, started just a few years prior, with the infamous "La Bohème." But I'm getting ahead of myself.
Think dainty tutus and beautifully fitted, knee-length leotards - think elegant but practical! These were made in the lightest materials available, silk, satin, gauze, and velvet. Think swathes of pink and pale lavender, soft creams and blushing peaches, and, naturally, that delightful touch of blush pink. Remember, my darlings, the goal was to accentuate the dancer’s grace and movements, not restrict them, as with the corseted attire of the time. This era saw the beginning of a beautiful shift in the dance world, from the stiff and ceremonial to a softer, more free-flowing style that celebrated movement and fluidity.
Of course, I couldn't miss this opportunity to strut my own stuff! I shimmied onto the cobblestones, tutu a-flutter, and serenaded a group of enthralled passersby with a ballet-inspired jig, inspired by the era's graceful movements and elegance. As a seasoned time traveller, I know a little street ballet goes a long way when it comes to gathering enough funds for my next grand time travelling escapade. Plus, the cheers of the audience always make me feel so… well, fabulous!
The fashion here is enchanting! In the world of fashion beyond the theatre, the bustle is still all the rage, darling! And think of all the elaborate hats! Feather boas, intricate beading, delicate lace trims – oh, I could spend days admiring the beautiful details.
The ladies of fashion wear corsets - which we may not be seeing in the ballet, my darlings - but I am a big proponent of leotards, not only for dancing, but for casual wear. Why? Because a good leotard can create the perfect silhouette! The right fit and color, it accentuates those lovely curves and makes any look extra special! Remember, the goal is to feel amazing in what you’re wearing. Don't be afraid to embrace that touch of flair.
Speaking of embracing that flair, you simply must visit the famous Liberty department store, darling! This emporium is a wonderland of exquisite fabric and homewares - from lace and ribbons, silks and linens to fine china and intricate glassware. I have been to this era several times, so I'm going to head over and find a lovely pink leotard to add to my collection! I must get this post up though, the London evening is already getting rather busy. My tutu's catching on all the carriage wheels! See you soon, darling.
Until next time, keep twirling!
Emma xox
P.S. Do let me know what your favourite piece of vintage fashion is, darlings! And let's talk Pink!
Pink-Tutu.com
