Bonjour mes chéries!
Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, dedicated to all things pink and twirly! This week, on our historical journey, we find ourselves stepping back in time to the 24th of March, 1840. Today's #TutuTuesday will take us to the heart of Paris, a city that always feels alive with the energy of creativity, especially when it comes to fashion and dance.
As I hop off the train in Paris, having just travelled from Derbyshire, I can already smell the delicious scent of croissants, the warm air filled with the sound of chatter and laughter. It's a glorious spring day, the sun dappling through the tree branches, casting light upon the bustling city below. I am, naturally, in my most magnificent pink tutu – a flowing tulle confection with intricate embroidery and ribbons galore. I just can't resist a bit of Parisian flair!
The "Tutu" Begins to Twirl
Today's #TutuTuesday topic is especially exciting for me - it marks the very beginning of a significant shift in ballet fashion! You see, 1840 is the year Marie Taglioni, a famous ballerina and my ultimate idol, debuted a truly revolutionary costume: a lightweight, calf-length white skirt, known as the "tutu," which allowed for graceful movements and, of course, fabulous leaps and pirouettes.
Prior to this, ballerinas were burdened with heavy, restrictive skirts and cumbersome dresses that restricted their movement and artistry. It's incredible to think how much ballet changed after the introduction of this graceful garment! Taglioni was the pioneer, an innovator who dared to revolutionize not just the way ballerinas dressed but how the art of ballet itself was perceived.
The beauty of this "tutu" - a word I feel encapsulates the absolute perfection of it all - lies not only in its airy, delicate nature but in how it showcases the fluidity and beauty of the human body. It embodies both strength and grace, and that is why it's truly my all-time favorite!
But Hold Your Horse (Or Should I Say, Your Carriage)?
While this new "tutu" quickly became a symbol of ballet, there were still whispers of disapproval from those who saw it as "too short" or "inappropriate". But I say "pah!" I don't care what anyone else says – if it looks good, and feels good, you're doing it right!
This early "tutu" was more akin to a "Romantic Tutu," - long and full, a billowing cloud of softness. Over time, we will see it evolve and be transformed further into the shorter, more dramatic and "Classic Tutu" - and even today, both continue to inspire and mesmerize, with each design evoking different emotions and interpretations on stage.
Seeing Stars! The World of Parisian Ballet
To immerse myself further in the spirit of Parisian dance and fashion, I naturally visit the beautiful Salle Le Peletier, the theatre that hosted the Paris Opera Ballet, even back then. As I take my seat amongst the elegant Parisians, a wave of anticipation courses through me. I imagine, I see, the stars of ballet dancing, those delicate steps, that grace... Ah, the power of a tutu is to dream, to create, to dance!
Later on, I pop by the Theatre du Gymnase - and don't even get me started on the fabulous millinery and hats - and have a spot of afternoon tea at a delightful little cafe! What else can one ask for in a day!
As I amble around Paris later that evening, I see a performance by the Comédie Française, and later I go shopping for a delightful new pink silk scarf at a small boudoir, near the boulevard Saint-Martin, a very smart area. The Parisian fashion world was vibrant and ahead of its time, and the "tutu" perfectly captures this spirit of style and freedom!
Pink-Tutu Musings
Oh, my darlings! I must go - I am so excited to explore more of Paris, to drink in the beauty, and see if there are more new designs in the making. I’m just off to find some new ideas and inspiration for the next pink tutu. Do join me for more fashion fun on next week's #TutuTuesday ! Until then, remember to keep twirling and to dream big, always, like Marie!
Bisous! Emma x
P.S. Have you got your favourite pink tutu? Do let me know in the comments, and make sure to share your own Tutu Tuesdays too! I can't wait to see!
