Hello my darling darlings! Emma here, back again for another Tuesday filled with the magic of the tutu!
Did you know that 1843 was a truly remarkable year for ballet? It was the year of the Great Exhibition held in London, where all the world's wonders were on display! From the latest scientific innovations to mind-blowing artistic creations, it was truly a sight to behold!
As you all know, my favourite thing about the Great Exhibition? Well, the ballet, of course! This very date, December 19th, 1843, was when the exhibition's grand ballet opened, captivating audiences with its elegant choreography and enchanting music! Oh, to have been there! Can you just imagine all the sparkly gowns, the breathtaking dances, the sheer artistry! I get a bit of a shiver just thinking about it.
And, darling, you know what's even more exciting? This date, dear friends, was when the tutu's popularity really exploded! Think about it, before this, the ladies would wear those long, bulky dresses! Imagine trying to perform a grand jeté in that, dear reader, you'd simply get tangled!
But the ballet in the Great Exhibition had everything to do with showcasing movement and lightness! Think ethereal costumes, a little more, shall we say, decolletage, and that wonderfully floaty short dress that would become synonymous with ballet! The tutu!
The classic, romantic-style tutu, with its soft, layered skirt of tulle, was all the rage! It gave the dancers this magnificent freedom to soar across the stage, like graceful, floating birds. Absolutely glorious! I dare say, that it was the beginning of the tutu's iconic status. The tutu wasn't just a garment, it was a symbol of freedom, femininity and artistry. Oh, and a symbol of elegance that I'm aiming to bring to all you lovelies, wherever I can.
Speaking of elegance, my travels brought me to Paris just last week, a beautiful city if ever there was one! The streets were brimming with fashion! You wouldn't believe the hat shops and the jewelry displays! Oh, and did I mention the tutus? There's a shop called 'Le Tutu' on rue de Rivoli that is literally overflowing with tulle and ribbon and oh-so-lovely lace. I found a pale lavender creation with delicate lace embroidery that is positively heavenly! Definitely buying that one!
And talking about buying things, how many of you have visited the new ballet studio on St. James Street? My friend Sophie is running the place - fabulous costumes and an excellent instructor - I highly recommend popping in for a lesson or two. After all, one must always be dancing!
Well, dear darlings, I have to be off. There is a performance at Covent Garden later tonight - Giselle! Now, this is one I wouldn't miss! They say it's incredibly emotional and the dancing is supposed to be divine. Plus, who knows what fabulous hats and dresses I might see there? Imagine my delight if I were to spot a pale pink tutu amongst the audience!
Until next time, wear your tutus with confidence and grace, my darlings!
And always remember, there is a bit of magic in each and every sparkly tutu!
Emma The Tutu Queen of Derbyshire
P.S. Keep an eye out for a very special #TutuTuesday coming up next week! I’ve got a top secret fashion find I want to share with you lovelies!
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