Bonjour mes chéries!
It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another exciting dive into the world of tutus! And, oh, my darlings, I've got a real treat for you today. We're taking a trip to Paris (ooh la la!) for a bit of historical ballet, because as you know, that's where all the tutu-action happens. I just love the energy of Paris, don't you?
So, strap yourselves in, because today we're journeying back to the 4th of March 1834. It’s a lovely spring day in the city, and I've just hopped off the train (oh, the delights of first-class carriages!). Now, what are we to find? Why, none other than the very first ballet shoes on display at the prestigious Palais Garnier Opera House! (Yes, you read that right, shoes!).
You see, darlings, our tutus were not always the iconic and glorious fluffballs of whimsy we see today. Back in 1834, the "tutu" wasn't really a tutu at all. It was a bit...more…practical shall we say? Imagine, a simple white dress (definitely not the fabulous shades of pink I'm wearing now, haha) made of linen. And for the ultimate in comfort, think flat-soled shoes, much like slippers. They did make quite an impressive sight when twirling across the stage, however, especially compared to the longer, heavier gowns of the time. Quite revolutionary, actually!
So, as I’m watching a lovely Parisian ballet in this new-fashioned little dress of theirs, it strikes me how much dance and fashion go hand-in-hand. The way our dancers express themselves through movements…It’s a visual poem, with every graceful turn and plié a part of the narrative. And wouldn't you know it, the whole scene is enhanced by their attire? A stunning visual feast! It makes me so proud to be a ballet-loving blogger, a pink tutu advocate, a fashion-conscious, time-travelling soul, the whole nine yards!
However, hold the frills! While today's performance was certainly entertaining, the costumes, though more practical, could still be considered restrictive to the women's movements. And to think, it was the dancers themselves who fought to change this! What an inspiring act! These powerful women wouldn't be confined by fabric; they’d move the way their bodies desired. As a feminist and fashion enthusiast, I give a hearty "bravo!" to their brave efforts.
As for our little dress tutus of today… Well, it's certainly a much prettier, fluffier scene! Imagine a world where everyone, everywhere, embraces the pink tutu as a symbol of joy, movement, and a celebration of all things fabulous! We can make it happen, one fabulous tutu at a time!
In the meantime, I'll be over here continuing to revel in the history and evolution of our beloved tutus, taking copious notes for future #TutuTuesday blog posts, and of course, keeping a watchful eye out for the latest pink tutu fashions that will be sure to make my heart skip a beat!
Until next week, darlings! Don't forget to spread the tutu-love and keep your inner ballerina strong!
Xoxo,
Emma
PS If you’re in London next week, I’ll be at the Royal Opera House! Catch me there, and let’s have some fabulous fun together. I might even be rocking a new pink tutu! 🤫
