Hello my gorgeous tutu lovers! It's Emma here, and this week, we're waltzing our way back to 27th September 1864, for a little time travel ballet tutu history lesson! Oh, this trip was absolutely delightful - London was buzzing with energy, a glorious mix of horses and carriages, chimney sweeps and chimney pots.
And of course, no trip to the Victorian era would be complete without a visit to the ballet. Now, you're probably picturing stiff, powdered wigs and powdered tutus, right? Think again, my lovelies! This period marked the start of something incredibly exciting - a new style of tutu emerged, and oh my, was it exciting!
Goodbye Stiffness, Hello Movement
Gone were the long, heavy, full skirts that made a ballerina look more like a ballroom dancer. Instead, tutus began to be lighter and more ethereal, allowing for more graceful movement and intricate steps. Think flow - think whirl - think absolute freedom of movement!
This, my dears, was the era of Marie Taglioni, the iconic ballerina who revolutionised the way we view dance. Think long, diaphanous layers, just cascading over her legs like spun silk. Talk about a head turner! These were tutus that truly embodied the spirit of the romantic era - light, airy, dreamy, just like the story of Giselle itself.
The Power of a Pink Tutu!
And just imagine, my dears! Imagine a pink tutu, flowing around the dancer, against the backdrop of a darkened stage - breathtaking! Yes, it wasn’t exactly the iconic colour of the day (it'd be a bit daring!), but oh, the potential for pink tulle, it was there. It just took a bit more time to take the leap, literally.
Shopping and Style in Victorian London
You can imagine my delight wandering around the bustling streets of London, with shops overflowing with beautiful fabrics, shimmering with silk and lace! It was like being in a fairy tale! Imagine silk tulle in hues of pale blush pink, or even a deeper rose, with layers and layers of frills cascading over my favourite pair of patent leather ballet shoes.
My mind is already racing with new tutu designs inspired by the Victorian era! Picture it: A swirling, frilly tutu in shimmering silk, maybe with a hint of vintage lace, and just the faintest touch of pink - swoon!
My Favourites of 27th September, 1864
So what was on that day in 1864, you might ask? Well, my dears, we're right in the midst of the autumn season, the air is crisp and cool. The fashion scene is buzzing with excitement. We're talking velvet cloaks, elaborate bonnets, and of course, an abundance of petticoats to puff up those wonderful dresses! And naturally, everyone's eagerly awaiting the upcoming season's new theatrical performances.
And for my travel inspiration, I rode on the iconic The Flying Scotsman train! Oh, this iconic train was so much fun! Imagine, steam, travel, history! It really brings to life the excitement of Victorian times!
Until Next Time
But alas, it’s time for me to return to the present. Oh, I can’t wait for my next Tutu Tuesday. This time travel ballet tutu adventure was an absolute dream come true. It truly inspired me, and I'm already eager to show you all the latest styles, colours and fabrics. So join me next Tuesday at 12 noon on www.pink-tutu.com for more of my ballet tutu history escapades. Until then, be sure to channel your inner ballerina and twirl into your own happy, pink-tutu filled week!
See you then, lovelies!
With love and lots of twirls,
Emma xx
