Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your pink tutu-clad time traveler, and it's another fabulous Tuesday. I'm just back from a trip to Paris, oh là là! As you know, I'm always chasing history through the ages - and especially history that sparkles with tutus. 😉 Today, we're stepping back in time to 9th July, 1867, and, darling, what a treat this trip was!
Firstly, the journey! Just the thrill of being whisked away by train to the continent is an experience in itself. Picture this: a crisp white blouse, my trusty pink tulle tutu, and a velvet jacket (because it always seems a little chilly in carriages, no matter how sun-drenched the day is), and me, tucked in comfortably amongst charming strangers and elegant ladies.
And Paris! Such a chic and fashionable city, filled with laughter, conversation, and the air electric with exciting developments. The World Fair, in particular, was absolutely buzzing! Every corner was filled with wonder – new inventions, artistic masterpieces, and the most decadent food displays you could imagine.
Of course, the first thing on my itinerary? Finding a ballet! The Opéra Garnier, just recently opened, was the epitome of grand theatre – a magnificent spectacle in itself! The audience was absolutely enraptured by the performance; you could practically feel the thrill in the air. But, dear readers, I was slightly disappointed... You see, this ballet, like most productions of the time, featured skirts rather than our beloved tutus.
This period was known for "long skirts" in ballet - beautifully layered fabrics designed to accentuate movement, and truly majestic. It is interesting to see how even then, ballet dancers were finding creative ways to play with layers and fabric.
Though I did love the extravagance of the skirts and their fluidity, my heart still belonged to the romantic tutus that would follow just a few decades later!
Yet, Paris always delights. My visit wasn't solely focused on ballet, and as any true fashionista knows, shopping in Paris is a ritual. My time was well spent exploring the Parisian fashion houses and browsing through shops bursting with fabric and lace - truly an inspiring feast for the eyes!
My favourite shop was called "La Maison de la Danse" which sold the most incredible dancing shoes. I simply had to purchase a pair - with ribbons, no less! Imagine how wonderful they would look dancing around a garden on a warm summer's evening...
I filled my luggage with decadent Parisian treats: silk scarves with charming Parisian scenes, embroidered lace doilies to use on my writing desk at home in Derbyshire, and enough French bonbons to last until my next trip! It's all about indulging yourself and experiencing new cultures, darling, and Paris is simply brimming with excitement!
Now, I can't just talk about Paris without a quick tip for all you tutu enthusiasts. Did you know that while the iconic tutu wasn't quite the fashion staple back in 1867, Paris was still embracing the magic of dance? There was a booming ballroom dance scene! So if you want a taste of 1867 Parisian glamour, don't hesitate to find a ballroom dance class and spin in a gorgeous full-length ball gown. The swirling, graceful movements will transport you straight into the elegant heart of Parisian history.
Of course, I still hope you’ll embrace the tutu, and for the time being, why not join me for a whirl through a ballroom? It's never too early to start imagining your very own Tutu Tuesday - perhaps in Paris? 🇫🇷💖
As always, your dear friend,
Emma.
