Hello darlings! Welcome back to #TutuTuesday, where we delve into the delightful history of the tutu! Today, we're hopping in the time machine and landing ourselves in September 1878. Prepare yourselves, my dears, for a grand adventure!
This is post number 2436 on my blog, Pink-Tutu.com, and it's going to be a right royal affair. You see, as a Derbyshire lass born and bred, I simply had to travel back to this year to witness a true piece of ballet history unfold – the opening night of a new production at the Paris Opera.
Can you imagine the buzz? It was the creation of the legendary Marius Petipa, a name synonymous with ballet perfection. His new work, La Bayadère, premiered on September 30th, 1878, and, oh my dears, the buzz in Paris was absolutely electric!
My research brought me to the rue de la Paix, the chic heart of Paris fashion. This was the very street where Cartier first opened its doors in 1847, and where Parisian society flitted about with elegance and charm. The streets buzzed with elegant carriages and smartly dressed gentlemen escorting ladies in the most divine hats and gowns!
Imagine a ballet scene set in India, a place that sparked endless imagination for Parisian fashion houses in the late 19th century. A mystical temple, beautiful exotic fabrics, the shimmering moonlight – I can almost hear the strains of the orchestra now, just as they would have sounded then, in this glittering world of Parisian ballet.
You know, even though tutus weren't quite what we see today, imagine the anticipation around those first delicate tutus - the early attempts to capture the flowing grace of dancers and their magical presence on stage. Just imagine the whispers of admiration, as the ballerinas took their first steps in those beautifully sculpted garments. It's a true testament to the art of fashion and its vital role in creating magical moments, even then!
And what would I be wearing in Paris? Well, my dear readers, it goes without saying that I'd be sporting a pink tutu, wouldn't I? After all, pink is my favourite colour, and who says ballet needs to be confined to just black and white? It’s a symphony of colours and emotions, don’t you agree? And I must tell you, Paris in 1878 was positively abuzz with colour! Imagine all the magnificent textiles, the embroidered details, and the gorgeous silk ribbons used to make those enchanting early tutus. What a feast for the senses!
For a Parisian adventure like this, I'd pick a simple pink tulle tutu, the perfect length for fluttering movements and dainty steps, paired with a silk, pastel-coloured top – perhaps lavender or blush, a nod to the exoticism of La Bayadère itself. Then, a bejeweled tiara would sit upon my hair – a nod to those opulent ladies I imagined watching the premiere.
Don't worry about my travelling funds, you darlings. As always, I’ve been saving for this adventure, making my pennies through magical ballet performances, because a bit of 'theatricality' can really make those travel expenses disappear, you know!
Oh, and I must tell you about the famous Opéra Garnier. Its opulence! The majestic halls, the ornate decoration, the perfect backdrop for such an incredible evening. It's just the place for experiencing those early ballets in all their glory. It felt so incredible to be swept back into such a vibrant, inspiring setting, to be surrounded by music, dance, and the awe of such a magical experience.
So, as you see, my dears, this past Tuesday wasn't just about the history of tutus - it was about an adventure of the heart! It’s about embracing those beautiful things in life: the power of dance, the beauty of a colourful tutu, the thrill of time travel, and, of course, a little touch of Parisian flair.
Let's all dream about being there on opening night of La Bayadère. Just imagine - you, me, and a room full of exquisitely dressed ladies and gentlemen, gathered together for an evening of sheer brilliance! Until next week, my dears! I leave you with the simple message, *“Embrace the joy of movement, wear a pink tutu, and don't be afraid to twirl!” *
Until next #TutuTuesday, remember to stay fashionable and dream big,
Emma 🩰💖
