Bonjour, darling Tutu lovers! Emma here, back from another dazzling trip through the annals of ballet history. It’s Tuesday, which means it’s time for your weekly dose of tutu-rific knowledge! Grab a cup of tea (and perhaps a pink macaron), settle in, and prepare to be whisked away to the vibrant world of 1877!
This week, my time machine deposited me right in the heart of Paris – the capital of couture, the birthplace of fashion, and, of course, the heart of ballet! This was the era of the Second Empire, a time of opulence, elegance, and exquisite refinement. Picture bustling boulevards adorned with magnificent theatres, ladies in cascading skirts and hats adorned with feathers, and the unmistakable scent of perfume hanging in the air – pure Parisian magic!
And what’s the perfect way to experience this extraordinary period? Why, a trip to the Opéra de Paris of course! This iconic theatre, adorned in the grandeur of the Second Empire style, is a haven for ballet enthusiasts, a magnificent place for dreams to come alive on stage!
My oh my, this particular trip was particularly special because 22nd May, 1877 marks a very important day in ballet history - the debut of *La Camargo by Jules Perrot.*
I managed to secure tickets for this highly anticipated performance - and let me tell you, the energy inside the opera house was absolutely electric! Imagine rows upon rows of ladies, their dresses swirling in a symphony of silk and lace, their eyes sparkling with anticipation for the ballet. It felt like the whole city was breathing in anticipation!
The curtain rose and we were instantly transported to a world of beauty, passion, and storytelling. La Camargo, a tale about the famous ballerina of the 18th century, Marie Camargo, who famously revolutionized ballet with her innovative short skirts and vibrant movements!
Perrot, the mastermind behind this captivating ballet, was a true innovator, his work exemplified the beauty and grace of the classical style. The choreography flowed effortlessly, each move a masterpiece in its own right, filled with such elegant jumps and twirls - oh, how I wanted to join the dancers on stage!
The ballet's popularity surged in a beautiful whirlwind of excitement, making its mark in the hearts of Parisian society - proving the power of art to move, inspire, and connect with an audience on a deeper level.
While the 1877 tutus, crafted of tulle and lace, were undeniably elegant, they lacked the exuberant pinkness that truly brings joy to my tutu-loving heart. A splash of pink in that era’s fashion, much like adding sugar to tea, would’ve simply taken it to the next level!
Of course, one can’t always achieve all their sartorial ambitions in the past - and honestly, who needs time-travelling modifications when we can embrace a little whimsy in our own modern tutu-filled lives?
That brings me to this week’s #TutuTuesday challenge: wear a touch of pink! Perhaps a pink ribbon tied to your ballerina bun, or a pink bow on your favourite pair of ballet shoes. It’s the small details, my dears, that add those exquisite touches of feminine charm!
I've certainly been indulging my love for all things pink – I even acquired a magnificent, rose-coloured tea set in Paris! Don't you just love the feeling of finding beautiful pieces that capture the joy of fashion and femininity?
And to end this week’s journey on a delightful note, a reminder that life is meant to be danced with a dash of pink!
Till next Tuesday, my darlings! Remember, the world is your stage, so twirl and dance with joy, in the most fabulous fashion you can find!
With all my love,
Emma xx
PS Did you know the train journeys through the countryside surrounding Paris are just as enchanting as a visit to the city? There are charming little villages hidden along the tracks, perfect for a delightful little detour during your ballet-themed vacation! And of course, nothing beats the sense of excitement that comes with a journey aboard a historic train. So if you’re a true lover of tutus and travel, then this is the journey for you!
PPS Don't forget to share your own pink fashion inspirations on Instagram! Just add the hashtag #PinkTutuMoments, so I can admire your beautiful style! And remember, there's a bit of pink magic in all of us, so go forth and let it shine!
