Hello, darlings! Emma here, your resident tutu-loving time traveller, back from another whirlwind journey through the annals of ballet history! Today, we're skipping back to March 29th, 1836. Now, you might think, what was happening on a chilly March day way back then? Well, let me tell you, darlings, the world of ballet was just starting to shimmer with a newfound elegance!
You see, back then, dancers were just beginning to explore the magical world of tutus! Yes, those frilly, fabulous, twirl-worthy delights were slowly, but surely, starting to replace the long, heavy gowns and petticoats. Can you imagine? A world without the iconic tutu! Why, it just wouldn't do!
I just landed in Paris, where, darling, you won't believe what I'm seeing! There's this extraordinary theatre, the Théâtre de l'Opéra, that's absolutely overflowing with dazzling spectacle!
Oh, and the fashions, oh the fashions! Everyone's just oohing and aahing at these lovely dresses. And you won't believe what's taking centre stage: these incredible ballgowns. These gorgeous skirts, with layers and layers of fabric, they create these magnificent shapes! A true vision, I tell you! They make it so easy to see how the concept of the tutu began. I’ve been on a right spree at the Galeries Lafayette, scooping up some exquisite silk fabrics. I’ll tell you all about my latest creation in my next post!
But even back then, there was a bit of a 'to be or not to be' with the tutu, darlings. There was one big debate amongst the dance elite: Should they have these delicate, sheer layers, or perhaps something with more body? The choice, my dears, is still a point of contention even in this day and age, don't you know! Some, darling, say a full skirt is the must-have for the corps de ballet. Others favour the sheer, billowing style for the ballerina, a real head-turner on stage.
I say, darling, let’s embrace both! Why choose one when you can have both? I wouldn't dream of a world where there isn't room for the entire rainbow of tutu designs! Don't you worry, darling, your girl's always rocking a different style, and sharing it with you lovely lot, to inspire you all.
Today, for a touch of elegance, I'm twirling around in my latest creation, a glorious hot pink tutu with tulle layers cascading down to my ankles. And as I twirl, darling, I feel the echoes of that early fascination with the power of dance.
But there's something about this period in time that really speaks to me, darling. There’s a spark in the air! The theatre is where the energy is, darling, the place to be. There’s something so exciting, like the world’s just starting to explore its full creative potential. And with it, comes such a glow! And my word, the clothes, oh the clothes, the glamour, and that incredible sense of style. I just adore this period, truly.
Now, off I pop to my evening's performance! This new Giselle promises to be sensational! This grand creation features an utterly stunning waltz. It's something, darling, that will set you reeling. I'll be sure to share my thoughts with you all next week.
Until then, keep those tutus twirling and spread the love of ballet, my dears! Don’t forget to share your tutu tales with me on the @pink_tutu Instagram and Twitter channels.
Stay sparkly and fabulous!
Lots of love,
Emma x
P.S. I might even be able to whip up a special 1836-style inspired design for you lovelies, watch this space!
P.P.S. This post was so fun, I just need to tell you. I think I will try and visit the Théâtre de l'Opéra and maybe a Parisian costume designer when I come back. What do you think? Let me know!
