Hello darlings! Emma here, back again for another jaunt into the captivating world of ballet and the gloriously frivolous tutu! This week, my time machine has deposited me right in the heart of 1836 – a year of great social change, particularly for us women, and of course, a year of exciting dance trends!
As you know, my mission in life (apart from wearing pink tutus constantly, obvs) is to spread the love of tutus to every corner of the globe, and today, I’m channeling a proper vintage vibe, and I think it’s going to be a right hoot!
A Parisian Affair
I’ve landed in Paris, a city I must say, is absolutely brimming with fashionable ladies, grand ballrooms, and all things utterly glamorous. The Parisian streets are a sea of flowing gowns, puffed sleeves, and intricate hats, with a dash of bold colour, like a painting by Manet himself!
Now, the real excitement? We are in the golden era of the Romantic ballet! It's a complete departure from the classical style, with ethereal dancers (they do look so graceful and weightless, like swans in flight) showcasing a whole new way of movement – lighter, more expressive. The ballet blanc, the ballet in white, is all the rage. Think billowing white tulle tutus, just imagine the delicate beauty and ethereal glow. Simply divine!
Fashioning a Tutu:
The tutus you see today are still very much a work in progress, ladies! What they lack in quantity, they make up for in ingenuity. Picture these adorable crinolines, layers upon layers of frills made of lace, silk, or fine net, sewn together and shaping into a circular skirt! The ladies look like blossoming flowers – stunning, delicate and beautifully full.
Taking It to the Stage
But before we think too much about the stage, let’s indulge in some fashion fun! Have you ever seen a Parisian boutique window in all its splendor? Imagine layers of lace, fabrics shimmering, each shade more beautiful than the last! I’m particularly fond of pastel pink, so delicate, feminine, and truly dreamy, perfect for any blossoming ballerina!
Speaking of, today is the 12th of July and guess what?! This week in 1836, a performance of “La Sylphide,” was showcased for the very first time! It's one of those ballets you absolutely have to see, if you want to know how ballet evolved, or even if you’re a ballet novice! It’s an emotional rollercoaster! The story of love, loss, and longing perfectly embodies the beauty and complexity of the ballet form.
Whirl Through the Ballet World:
To add another touch of charm to your evening, imagine strolling around the city in a silk gown and an embroidered waistcoat while sipping your wine and chocolate, or grabbing a glass of cognac after watching a performance. Now, picture yourself stepping out into a chilled Parisian night, wearing a simple, but elegant silk gown, your face softly illuminated by the gaslights, dancing under the moonlight, perhaps enjoying the melody of a Parisian opera, your toes twirling in pure delight. What an unforgettable night!
Oh, ladies, if I could only find a pink silk waistcoat to match this blush pink tutu, we'd be fashion royalty. Alas, pink is just a dream for today!
But fear not! Our time travel adventures will take us to all sorts of exciting destinations!
And that, my dearest dancers, is all for now!
I hope this little jaunt into the past has sparkled a few ideas for your personal dance wardrobe, as well as fuelled your appreciation for the timeless beauty of ballet. And remember: don't forget your tutu.
Until next week,
Emma,
The pink-tutu-loving, ballet-obsessed time traveler
P.S. Do check out my amazing travel journal, packed with my Parisian discoveries on the www.pink-tutu.com website!
