Bonjour, darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where we celebrate the glorious tutu! It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another dive into our beloved history of this fabulous fashion statement! Today we're twirling back to 23rd October 1877 for a delightful glimpse at the ballet world just over a century ago.
As I sit here in my boudoir (with the curtains drawn for privacy, naturally!), nestled in the heart of Paris, the city that seems to inhale and exhale fashion with each passing breeze, I can practically feel the spirit of tutus swirling around me. Today is an especially magical day, you see, as October 23rd, 1877, was the day of the grand opening of the Opéra Garnier, this dazzling masterpiece of a theatre!
Now, picture this: A shimmering jewel of architectural wonder, sculpted with elaborate detail and brimming with elegance. This architectural triumph houses a stunning auditorium bathed in the soft glow of the gas lamps, the air alive with anticipation as the curtain rises to reveal... well, it's impossible for me to give away too much! You just have to imagine the spectacle. Imagine, my darlings, the breathtaking gowns and the exquisitely detailed stage sets. Imagine, perhaps, a ballet featuring ethereal fairies and dashing princes, all set against the backdrop of this grand Parisian haven. I know, it's enough to make even the most jaded heart flutter!
Let's talk tutus! Now, you might think that the tutus in 1877 looked remarkably similar to the ones we see today, but that wouldn't be entirely true! They had a very different spirit, my dear readers, almost like they were trying to escape their own constrictions.
You see, tutus back then were very long - think, ankle-grazing and swirling, a little like an elegant dress! It wasn't until the late 19th century that the tutus began their evolution, becoming shorter and revealing those exquisite lines of the ballerina’s legs. Imagine those captivating dancers, their delicate legs just glimpsed through the layers of tulle, what a magnificent image!
I recently took a trip to Vienna (oh, how I adore Vienna, so wonderfully civilized and full of beauty!) and had the pleasure of witnessing a ballet at the Vienna State Opera House. They still wear the long tutus there, and let me tell you, it's simply captivating! They bring a different kind of magic, a grandeur that's just so alluring. And speaking of Vienna, I can't resist sharing a little secret I learned: the city is rumored to be the birthplace of the famous "Tutu de Jour!" What a delightful coincidence! A fitting tribute to the sartorial majesty that is the tutu!
But my darlings, it's not just about tutus. It's about the entire ballet world and how its magic has intertwined with fashion throughout history. The ballet dancer was and still is, a muse to fashion, and vice versa. Each era boasts its own unique signature: The billowing skirts of the Romantic Era, the opulent costumes of the Belle Époque, and the sleek elegance of the 20th Century - they all pay homage to the beauty of dance.
I admit it, I can't resist a little indulgence every now and then! So last week, I went on a vintage shopping spree! I found the most fabulous pair of shoes! They were white satin with intricate gold buckles – the very kind of footwear that I imagine a Victorian ballet dancer would wear to a fancy performance! Don't you just love that touch of timelessness, darling?
Now, as you know, travelling through time can be quite demanding on one’s budget! You see, keeping a ballerina looking this fab requires meticulous upkeep! All the dancing, and traveling… It’s a tiring affair! So you might ask, how does this travelling ballet enthusiast manage to fund her adventures? Well, the answer is as graceful as a pirouette - performing at stunning events!
Oh, the wonderful things you see! Imagine standing on a stage, illuminated by the glow of the spotlights, and captivating audiences with my grace! There's nothing more exhilarating! Imagine the applause, the joy on people's faces! It's the fuel that keeps this tutu-loving adventurer going.
I must confess, darling, there's something incredibly romantic about train journeys! And it just wouldn’t be a #TutuTuesday without some stylish travel! Nothing quite compares to the feeling of settling into a plush carriage, with the rhythmic rattle of the wheels against the track, as I imagine the grand performances ahead.
And on that note, my lovelies, it’s time to take my leave! As you all know, I have a grand performance at the Palais Garnier tonight. A rather fancy costume is called for – the entire world needs a little tutu magic, right? Until next Tuesday, darlings! Stay twirling!
With all my love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. What are some of your favourite tutu moments from the past? Do share your own #TutuTuesday memories! You know how I adore sharing a good giggle! Let me know in the comments!
