Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your portal to the magical world of ballet history, fabulous fashion, and, of course, pink tutus! This month, my trusty steed, Magic Meg, has whisked me away to the shimmering streets of Paris in the year 1694. Can you imagine the thrill?
As always, I'm channeling my inner historian and fashionista. I'm on a mission to bring you a glimpse into the world of ballet in the era of Louis XIV, the Sun King himself. Now, let's get down to business, shall we?
1694: A Year of Dance in the City of Lights
I arrived in Paris just in time for the "Grand Bal" at the Palais Royal. Oh, my darlings! The sheer opulence, the grandeur! I'm talking lavish costumes, intricate dances, and, of course, a sea of powdered wigs. I was positively overwhelmed.
But, before we dive into the glamour, let's chat about the background. 1694 was a pivotal year for ballet. The Academie Royale de Danse had just been founded and, darling, what an academy! I was instantly smitten with its focus on refined technique and elegant movements, the precursors to the classical ballet we know and adore today.
While in Paris, I was lucky enough to see a performance by the famous choreographer, Pierre Beauchamp, considered one of the pioneers of ballet technique. Imagine, darling, I saw the man who, almost by accident, discovered the five basic ballet positions! He wasn't the first, of course, but he codified them into the beautiful framework we know today.
Ballet at Court:
One of the most remarkable things I learned about ballet in the 17th century is how deeply ingrained it was into courtly life. Ballet wasn't just an entertainment, but a powerful means of social expression and diplomacy.
Now, I might have a little daydream about bringing my own touch of pink tulle to these formal events. I envision a dazzling waltz in a blush-colored tutu, twirling under the chandeliers of the Palais Royal. Wouldn't it be sensational?
Parisian Fashion: The Birth of the Ballerina Look
Let's not forget about the fashion, darlings! This era is where we start to see the origins of the modern ballerina look, a silhouette both graceful and captivating. Imagine layers of fine fabric, lace and delicate embellishments. Even without the tutus, Parisian women already understood the magic of movement. Their skirts, fitted at the waist and full at the hem, moved beautifully as they walked, danced, and gracefully flitted through the courtyards of their magnificent houses.
This style wasn’t only for court, of course. Women in 17th-century Paris started experimenting with the shape and embellishment of their skirts and dresses, leading to the romantic silhouettes of the later Rococo era. They were experimenting with a kind of "ballet-inspired" style. So, if I had a time-traveling wardrobe, my pink tutus would absolutely have to be styled in the chic, delicate Parisian way.
The Influence on My Own Ballet Style:
Now, let's be honest. Seeing the brilliance and refinement of 17th-century ballet really fuelled my own passion for this art form. I've been in contact with my teacher in Derbyshire and we're incorporating a little Parisian flair into our choreography. I can already picture our upcoming performances; I've already designed new tutus in pastel shades, the colours are inspired by the dainty elegance of this time period.
Ballet in a Back Pack:
From this time-travel adventure, I've picked up some interesting bits and bobs to bring back to Derbyshire with me in my pink leather rucksack. The little French poem I found at a street vendor, a book about Beaumont’s life, and, of course, a delightful embroidered fan to remind me of the exquisite Parisian court life. I’ve already been busy incorporating these Parisian influences into my Derbyshire-based ballet classes!
Time Travel on the Horizon:
What wonders will September hold for me? Magic Meg has already nibbled my ear with some ideas, but I can’t tell you where we’re going! I have to keep some secrets, darling. But, I will say this, we’re heading somewhere truly amazing and maybe even a little adventurous, just my kind of ballet trip.
Before you go, I've prepared a few surprises. There’s a behind-the-scenes video showcasing some of the Paris locations on my blog. I'm even sharing some of my sketches for the new ballet costume designs, inspired by 17th century French style! So, have a look around my website and check out all the extra details I’ve hidden away!
Until next month, darling, keep those tutus twirling and let the beauty of ballet guide you. Remember: pink is always in!
Emma xoxo
