Bonjour mes amies! Emma here, back with another installment of my #TutuTuesday blog for all you lovely tutu-loving ladies out there! I know, I know, some of you may be saying "Emma, it's getting a bit too repetitive. Don't you have anything else to talk about?" Well, darlings, to that I say, Tutus Are Forever! And that's why I'm back this week, bringing you right into the heart of tutu history. Buckle up, because we're taking a train journey (of course, always in style, travelling first class!), to Paris for a sneak peek into a pivotal year for dance - 1873!
A Day In The Life of A Parisian Tutu
Imagine it, my dears. It's September 16th, 1873, and the air is thick with the scent of perfume and excitement. It's the eve of a big, big performance, the sort that brings all the fashionistas and dance enthusiasts flocking to the theatre. You can feel the energy in the city, as everyone's thinking the same thing: "Is that new tutu really a sight to behold?"
This date? It's a momentous one for Parisian fashion - a chance for ballerinas to dance with style. Why? It’s the night of "La Source" - the newest ballet to take the stage at the Opéra de Paris. It's full of the most charming, romantic tales, exquisite costumes and of course, you guessed it, tutus! Imagine delicate tulle layered over light, diaphanous fabrics – just dreaming! Oh, and can we talk about the colours? Shades of pearl, blush, and dreamy creams, making every pirouette and arabesque positively mesmerizing!
Time Travel to 19th-Century Paris: Fashion Tips
Just like today, 19th century Paris is THE centre for fashion, where trends are born. Imagine yourself walking those cobbled streets, maybe popping into a little boudoir, or catching a glimpse of some fine Parisian ladies! They love to wear their dresses just so with flowing fabrics, fitted waists and elaborate, elegant hats. And that brings me to my favourite subject: shoes! Ladies were going crazy for fashionable boots – knee-highs and heeled, oh, so chic. I even bought a few pairs for myself, because why should ballerinas only be fashionable onstage? *(Hint hint, my dears - get yourself some fancy shoes to rock your everyday tutu! *
Tutu Tuesday Tip: Did you know, in the 1800s, dancing was ALL the rage, and women wore all sorts of interesting dresses for the ballroom! Some of those silhouettes are coming back today – puffed sleeves and romantic designs that are both whimsical and fabulous. Just take a look around for those "historical references," my lovelies - you might be surprised by how fashionable history really is!
A Parisian Evening to Remember
Okay, back to "La Source" and those amazing dancers! It's not the typical classical ballet story, although those classic techniques are present, it's a bit more dramatic – oh, the intrigue! Can we just say: what would any balletic story be without those extravagant costumes? Those long flowing lines, whimsical flounces, and a plethora of tulle … the whole performance is a dreamy spectacle making those early tutu forms almost divine! The diaphanous fabrics just float around as if those ballerinas are gliding through the air, completely effortless and incredibly captivating.
Remember that dress silhouette I talked about? Well, they’re reflected in the stage outfits. Tight at the waist with that amazing puff at the shoulders – such an amazing contrast of **grace and fluidity! Don’t worry though – all these elements remain in fashion even today! (Though I do love how fashion returns and brings something new.)
My #TutuTuesday Inspiration: From 1873 to Now
Think about the tutu you choose to wear this week - is it a classical, elegant form? Perhaps something with more of a contemporary twist, with a touch of movement? I’ll admit it – I like a bit of sparkle! And my most prized tutu? My favourite shade of pink (I’m quite a traditionalist like that), of course! Every time I don that tulle magic, I feel the energy and excitement of all those amazing women who danced before me – inspiring generations, moving to the music and expressing their heart and soul. And you can do the same!
Well, my darling tutu enthusiasts, that’s my tale for this week. But I'm back next Tuesday, so come back then, to join me for another grand journey into tutu history. Until next time, remember, your journey starts right now! And what journey is complete without a little tutu? (Oh, and if you're headed to the Paris Opera, make sure you let me know about any new tutu-fashion discoveries!)
And never forget: It’s okay to be fabulous. And a little bit pink.
