Bonjour, mes chères! Emma here, back again from the land of time-travel with another enchanting chapter in our Tutu Tale! This week we're waltzing back to 12th May, 1835, a date etched into history as the very day La Sylphide first graced the stage. This Parisian production, by the way, marked the true beginning of ballet's romantic era!
Oh, how I adore La Sylphide. I was there, tucked into the velvet theatre box in the Palais Royal. It was divine. The story, the music, and, oh, the costumes! I couldn't stop admiring Marie Taglioni, so beautiful and graceful as the ethereal sylph. Think of a wispy, light as air creature, and you have an image of the costumes they wore - ethereal and so delicate. Just a touch of pink here and there, perfectly capturing the dream-like world they painted for us.
You see, around 1835, tutus hadn't quite found their definitive shape - those glorious bell-shaped creations, all billowing layers, were yet to come. The Romantic Ballet era favoured simplicity - a short, skirt-like form made from layers of muslin. Think a little like a longer, lighter petticoat, but perfectly fitting around the body - more a skirt of whispers than a tutu!
Think sparkly sequins, graceful movement and swirling fabric. And of course, it must have been magnifique to see under the glittering Parisian theatre lights. These tutus really were the start of ballet’s magical transformation!
The tutus we wear today are descended from that graceful muslin form. That La Sylphide brought to life in a Parisian theatre. I just think it's rather exciting to think how one little ballet performance could change history and inspire the future of a fashion!
Speaking of inspiring, I must tell you, Paris is a joy to travel to for any ballet enthusiast. Not only did I take in the beautiful ballet at the Palais Royal, but I had to stop at the Palais-Royal for a quick little shopping expedition - how else would I have a perfect Parisian costume for this post?
Just look at my outfit. Perfectly pink with touches of Parisian-inspired embroidery. You see, I found these utterly charming shopfronts, filled to the brim with pretty ribbons, lace, and silks, all in those beautiful dusky shades of pink! They say Paris is always worth a trip - especially for a budding fashionista and ballet lover.
For those of you thinking of adding to your own collection of ballet garments this week - I strongly suggest pink tulle, soft floral embroidery (and lots of lace!). But for a real trip back in time, try finding yourself a skirt of tulle. Such a delightful dance in the fabric, so airy and light.
If you're a passionate ballet lover (especially those who just adore a bit of pink!), why not try and emulate that iconic first tutu with a beautiful muslin skirt of your own. Add a ribbon of the softest, lightest pink and you have yourself a fabulous little Parisian silhouette in an instant!
But don't forget, your individuality and personal style are always vital for a true ballerina's ensemble. So find your perfect touch, your little flair.
Until next time, let's continue to spread the joy of ballet, one tutu at a time. Don’t forget, #TutuTuesday is a call to all! Share your beautiful photos with #TutuTuesday and let's show the world our ballet fashion love. S’il vous plait , join us at www.pink-tutu.com. Au revoir!
