Hello, darlings! Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-clad time traveler, back with another splendid instalment of #TutuTuesday.
Today, we're stepping back in time, right into the heart of 1847. It's June 22nd, and let me tell you, it was a marvelous time to be in... drumroll ... Paris!
The French capital was thriving with artistry and creativity. You could practically smell the paint in the air from all the talented painters, and every shop window showcased the most breathtaking fashions, from bonnets to dresses (they weren't called "tutus" yet, darlings - just wait until I get my hands on those fashion dictionaries!). And let's not forget the grand Parisian Opera House! You must pop over there for a glimpse of a ballet performance, a magnificent spectacle indeed.
Today's date, June 22nd, happens to hold a special significance, even though it's just another splendid day in Parisian life. Why, you ask? Because it marks the 2nd anniversary of La Fille Mal Gardée premiere - that's "The Girl Who Is Badly Guarded" in fancy-talk. It's a delightful tale about a young farmer's daughter, her cheeky charms, and a daring love story - perfect for a delightful summer evening.
What's interesting, you see, is that although ballerinas at the time weren't quite wearing what we now know as a tutu - they were certainly dancing with a great deal of movement and grace in their rather large, floaty skirts. They had quite a lot of fabric to deal with!
But now, for a trip down the Parisian fashion memory lane...
The 1840s were all about a swirling and enchanting elegance. Think tight waists, full skirts, and dainty puffed sleeves - pure romance, my dear friends! There were, of course, several dresses that truly captivated my fancy:
- The crinoline: This delightful piece, which literally meant "hair linen," was a skirt constructed from several hoops to give that iconic "bell-shape" effect. Imagine the graceful movements and a touch of theatrical flair!
- *The *ball gown: Absolutely enchanting. A true princess-worthy creation with its layered tulle, lavish beading, and generous frills. Perfect for a waltz under the sparkling Parisian moon.*
As for colours? Think the softest pastels, especially pink! And let me tell you, my darling Derbyshire pink (just a tiny shade deeper) would've been the absolute darling of the day.
Imagine the thrill of spotting a ballerina gracefully spinning under a magnificent crystal chandelier, all while wearing a dazzling pink gown, her delicate shoes tapping softly on the stage. Bliss!*
And, oh, what a lovely image to inspire our own sartorial endeavors, don't you think? Perhaps we should create our own version of a 1840s ball gown. Picture it, darling: a swirling tulle skirt in that glorious deepest Derbyshire pink, a cinched waist, and a touch of shimmering embellishments - it'd be an absolute masterpiece!
Remember, darlings, our mission is to share the joy and enchantment of the tutu! And if you're looking for even more historical delights - well, my personal website www.pink-tutu.com has just the thing! Just a little scroll through my #TutuTuesday archive and you'll find hundreds of posts, packed full of pink, beauty, and dancing magic!
But I can already hear your excited chatter, and you're right - let's not leave any fashionistas out! If you've got a captivating Parisian fashion memory from 1847 (or even from another historical period!), do share it! Write a comment below and tell me all about it. We'd love to hear from you, darlings.
Until next #TutuTuesday, remember to keep your spirit bright and your tutus twirling! 💖
Emma xo
