Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad blogger Emma here, and welcome to post number 1914 of my Ballet Tutu History blog! As always, I’m absolutely buzzing to be back with another fabulously fabulous historical tidbit about the darling of dancewear, the tutu. Buckle up buttercups, because today we’re stepping back in time to the 1st of September, 1868!
This week, I took my trusty time-travelling tutu and waltzed my way over to Paris. Yes, Paris! As I stepped out of the train at the Gare du Nord (don't even get me started on the chic, vintage-looking steam engine - simply divine!), I practically gasped! There was this wonderful air of elegant energy, and oh, the fashion! Just walking down the streets, I felt like I was in a ballet. And can you believe, it's practically unheard of to spot a woman out and about without a stunning hat! Now, that's what I call fashionable!
Speaking of fashionable, on this day in 1868, a rather exciting event happened in the world of ballet – the Paris Opera premiered the spectacular "La Source." My dears, imagine this – a ballet set in the sparkling, beautiful Caucasus region, full of passionate love and breathtaking dances, with costumes that must have been to die for! This ballet is packed with beautiful dancing that really pushes the boundaries for movement, showing off all the grace and strength of our magnificent ballerinas. Can't you just imagine it? The intricate patterns, the breathtaking lifts, the stunning choreography!
Of course, what I really want to know is, what were the tutus like in **“La Source”? I'm dying to imagine what those delicate layers of tulle and silk looked like. It’s said that the costume designers went all out with embellishments, incorporating everything from glistening jewels to flowing ribbons, and of course, all the lovely flowers you can imagine! Sounds perfectly divine, don't you think?
Imagine being at the Opera House, seeing this spectacle unfold. You’d have to keep yourself from saying "ooh!" and "ah!" at the sheer brilliance of it all, not to mention the talent on stage. It must have been completely captivating.
Paris was bursting with a sense of artistry and creative flair. As I popped into a chic boutique in the city centre, my heart practically skipped a beat! The fabrics they were using were simply sublime - silk, satin, velvet – all with intricate lace and gorgeous, detailed embroidery. It's almost like the clothes were themselves tiny, delicate works of art. I bet they even incorporated some of those new-fangled machines for making fabrics to create new, exciting patterns for those luxurious materials!
And of course, I had to purchase something! My eyes landed on the most exquisite hat - a soft pink, feathered beauty with intricate flowers adorning its brim. Just like I'd imagined the Parisienne ladies would wear!
While Paris was an absolute delight, my travels continued. I couldn't resist hopping on another steam train (with a very charming conductor, might I add!), and arriving in London! Now, let's face it, no fashionista would miss out on the trends taking over the world in London, wouldn't you agree?
I love watching people in their fine clothing as I stroll through the city. I see so many men in their smart, sharp suits and women sporting outfits just begging to be sketched, so filled with delicate embroidery and flowing silks. And, of course, the dresses - oh, the dresses! Such stunning designs! I just love spotting all the delightful differences between the fashions here and back home in Derbyshire. London always sets the latest trends and it seems the trend now is all about a silhouette! Those narrow bodices and flowing skirts look so chic!
And now, speaking of tutus, while I'm here in London, I have to visit the Royal Opera House! This incredible venue has played host to countless ballerinas, from the most elegant, delicate movements to the thrillingly daring feats of strength and power. Can you just picture it? All those stories of dedication, talent, and artistry on display under that beautiful chandelier! I love this beautiful space where I can lose myself in the world of dance and beauty.
You can bet that London has seen many exciting changes in the world of dance. Imagine it! Those first steps into the Royal Opera House must have been simply breathtaking. And with each performance, I’m sure that the tradition and excellence only continued to blossom. It’s no wonder that even to this day, ballet remains such a beloved form of expression!
You know what, darling? I believe it's this kind of passion, this joy, that shines through in every single performance. I have to admit, sometimes when I’m feeling a bit down, just watching those dancers soar across the stage, their dedication shining bright, well it just brings a smile to my face and lifts my spirit right up! I have a hunch, this infectious energy was probably even stronger back in 1868, so I'm dying to know what it was like to be a part of those beautiful stories they told through dance.
Right now, the whole world is buzzing about the Royal Opera House's latest production - “Giselle.” It’s a classic tale, a romantic story with themes of loss and longing set in 19th Century Germany, complete with intricate, flowing movements. This story is so perfectly captured in every single step. The emotions are raw and powerful, leaving a powerful impression on everyone in the theatre, and they leave you feeling something truly special. And of course, those tutus, just gorgeous and oh so elegant.
I feel incredibly lucky that we get to experience all this incredible artistry today, in our comfy seats, and the thought of being at these legendary performances in the past just sets my mind racing.
Remember, lovelies, if you are ever in London or Paris, take the chance to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of dance. Go and see a show - trust me, you won't regret it! And most importantly, don't forget to wear a tutu! Because, after all, a pink tutu makes any experience even more magical!
Stay beautiful, stay fabulous, and stay tuned for next week's edition of #TutuTuesday! 🩰💖
