Dearest fellow Tutu Enthusiasts!
Itās Emma here, your resident tutu-obsessed time-travelling ballerina, and welcome to another #TutuTuesday on www.pink-tutu.com.
As you know, my heart flutters with delight at the sheer thought of twirling in a tulle confection. Todayās blog post, however, will take us on a historical journey back to the year 1837. Iāve been exploring the vibrant Parisian fashion scene (itās SO good for inspiration!), and found myself enthralled by a period when the art of dance was on the brink of revolution.
Imagine this: 1st August 1837. The sun is shining (hopefully) and the streets of Paris are alive with activity. It's a Tuesday - just like today, you see! And at the Theatre de l'OpƩra, they're preparing for an exciting new ballet, "La Sylphide" by Jean Coralli.
Now, you've probably guessed why Iāve set my time machine's dial to this date, right? You're absolutely right! "La Sylphide" introduced the world to the iconic ballet costume - the tutu! This delicate confection was a far cry from the cumbersome, layered skirts that ballerinas previously had to endure. The tutu, a marvel of airy tulle, transformed ballet from the ballroom into an elegant, ethereal spectacle.
The original tutu wasn't exactly the romantic, frothy vision that comes to mind when we imagine these creations today. It was known as the "tutu romantique" and resembled a more layered and calf-length skirt made from several tiers of fine fabric, allowing for beautiful, fluid movements that defied gravity. It's the kind of silhouette I would wear in a flash for a graceful afternoon stroll. It's easy to see how such a design quickly took the world by storm.
But the true star of this era? Marie Taglioni! She wasn't only a stunning dancer but the ultimate queen of the "tutu romantique." Her delicate physique and nimble footwork were a sight to behold as she danced like a dream across the stage. āShe dances, she walks, she runs like the very air,ā they whispered at the time, mesmerized by her performance in "La Sylphide." Imagine, fellow tutu lovers! Marie Taglioni made history, a legend woven in silk and tulle!
Imagine, dearest friends, having a glimpse into such an exquisite moment in time! The scent of orange blossom in the air, the gas lamps illuminating the Parisian streetsā¦ and the sheer joy of seeing ballet take its first momentous leap towards the modern era, fueled by the power of tulle and imagination.
Oh, it brings a tear to my eye! Just thinking about that moment when the "tutu romantique" graced the stageā¦ Imagine that impact, darling! Just by adding a bit of light, ethereal elegance, "La Sylphide" changed the trajectory of dance forever. This kind of innovation is what I dream of for the world of fashion. We must dare to dream big and envision creations that elevate the human form!
While Iām on the subject, what an absolute dream it was to witness the beauty of Parisian fashion in 1837! The bustle of shops showcasing the latest creations, the rustling of silk gowns as fashionable ladies waltzed through salons, and the incredible sense of artistic vibrancy in the air - I tell you, itās enough to make any ballerina swoon. It's the kind of inspiration I relish to fuel my own dreams. You know what they say, āinspiration can strike anytime, anywhere, so itās always important to keep a stylish open mindā.
This period truly encapsulated the spirit of grace, movement and elegance. They embraced color and texture, and what do you know? Those things are close to my heart too! It seems like history truly does have a habit of repeating itself!
This experience inspired me, you see? Iāve picked up a little inspiration from the 1800s, with its vibrant colors, its dedication to detail, and its daring style choices, which make me believe anything is possible in the realm of fashion.
As for me, I'm still a long way from London and Derbyshire, my beloved hometown, but I can already smell those wonderful oatcakes waiting for me. Oh, the joy of going home! I am returning tomorrow morning by the Orient Express, which will make my travel so comfortable and relaxed - and also ensure that I am fully rested in case any opportunities present themselves to do a couple of ballet performances in Paris on my way back home! Paris, always a city to fall in love with!
Itās a wonderful time for tutu inspiration! Remember, my friends, embrace your inner ballerina! Dance, twirl, and dream of grand things to come! You never know when inspiration might strike. Iām off to catch a show and marvel at all the fantastic tutus theyāre showcasing tonight at the Theatre de lāOpera in Paris, but I'll be back next Tuesday for a new blog post - a date with history awaits, of course, and hopefully a trip to the local dressmakers too!
Keep dancing and keep twirling, my lovelies!
Emma
XOXO
