Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, your resident pink tutu aficionado, and it’s Tuesday, which means it’s time for another spin through the glorious history of ballet tutus! This week we’re heading back to November 3rd, 1868, and my, oh my, what a whirlwind of a time it is! This is blog post number 1923 in my #TutuTuesday series. You can check out the full archive over on www.pink-tutu.com.
Paris: Where Fashion Takes Centre Stage
I’ve been gallivanting around Paris this week, as you do. This is truly the city of fashion and oh, the tutus! My time machine landed me at the Palais Garnier, a true marvel of architecture and the perfect stage for a ballerina’s dreams. The opulent decor, the golden chandeliers, the sense of excitement, it’s electrifying. Imagine my joy when I realised there was a performance of "La Esmeralda" on the very night I arrived.
You might know this enchanting story, with its captivating music and beautiful choreography, a tale of a captivating Gypsy dancer and her perilous journey through the dangers of 19th-century Paris. And wouldn’t you know it, the prima ballerina was a real star – the beautiful and graceful Madame Caroline Legros. It was such a delight watching her pirouette across the stage, all decked out in a flowing, billowing tutu – you know, the kind with those romantic tiers of fabric. She truly captivated the audience, and as I took my seat among the elegant ladies of the audience, I couldn’t help but think, "Yes, Paris truly is the city for those who adore tutus."
Beyond the Stage – The Parisian Tutu Scene
Now, darling, it wasn’t just the performance that captured my imagination – the fashion around town was quite a sight! Everyone is just so stylish, you can really feel the artistic energy bubbling about. The streets were abuzz with ladies dressed to the nines, with their crinolines and beautiful hats – they all reminded me of some kind of Victorian flower show!
It was a time when the idea of femininity was really celebrated in fashion. Ladies wore elegant fabrics like silk and satin, all soft and graceful – and I had a blast picking up some delightful ribbon and lace for my own tutu designs, for my dear readers, naturally!
I had the most charming experience – at the Theatre de l'Opera, a truly decadent establishment with exquisite gowns and exquisite tutus galore. The gentlemen in their finest suits and ladies in shimmering ball gowns and elegant parasols really took me back in time, especially as a lovely little cafe with a most divine array of cakes and pastries sits nestled in the Theatre's square. Imagine my delight – afternoon tea and delicate meringue, oh darling! What more could a girl ask for?
Time for a Travel Break
Of course, travelling always takes a lot of energy, so I had to treat myself to a luxurious stop at the Grand Hotel du Louvre. Such opulence! They really do go all out in Paris for luxury! They have grand suites and a beautiful restaurant. I even snuck into a drawing room and tried out one of the new chaise longues – very comfy for a travelling tutu enthusiast!
Oh, and a delightful touch to finish off the day – a glass of the finest Parisian champagne, served on an antique silver tray.
Now, I’ve got to be off – a fascinating exhibition at the Musee de l’Opéra de Paris awaits, with even more tutu treasures to see! Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog to get all my latest posts - just pop your email address in the box on the website. I’ll catch you next week for another trip through tutu history, so until then, be good to yourselves and keep twirling, darlings!
