#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1880-10-19

Hello, my dearest tutu-lovers! It’s Emma, your resident pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, and today, as always, we’re whisked back in time for a dose of tutu history on #TutuTuesday! I’ve popped my petticoats into my travel trunk and set the time machine for a trip to the Paris Opera House, a city that absolutely breathes fashion and is positively buzzing with ballerinas (and, of course, tutus)! It’s a real joy to be back in the city where tutus were, shall we say, truly taking centre stage!

The year is 1880. The Paris Opera House is the hub of dance and the ultimate dream for any tutu-loving ballerina, like myself! We're talking an explosion of colour, drama, and the most exquisite tutus you've ever laid your eyes on! Picture, if you will, delicate layers of tulle, each carefully handcrafted, shimmering and fluttering under the spotlight like the wings of a beautiful butterfly. We’re not talking stiff, starched creations here, but beautifully flowing layers, perfect for capturing the grace and movement of a true ballerina. It’s an exciting time to be a ballerina - a time of technical prowess, theatrical spectacle and, most importantly, TUTU!

The year 1880 isn’t just a year of glamorous ballerinas in elaborate tutus. This date is extra special because we have a special treat! This is the date the Paris Opera House opened their doors to the general public, no longer restricted just to the elite and royal family! Just imagine, for the first time, thousands of everyday people, filled with excitement, stepping into a place dedicated to art, beauty and, of course, the magic of the tutu. Can you even imagine how excited the crowds must have been? My heart beats faster just thinking about it!

This was a pivotal moment in the history of ballet. No longer exclusive, it opened ballet to a wider audience, becoming accessible to those who may never have dreamed of seeing such beauty in motion before! Imagine their joy when they witnessed the stunning dancers whirling and leaping in those delicate tutus. Such a thrilling moment! And wouldn't you know it, my time-travel antics got me a front-row seat at a stunning performance featuring one of the most talented ballerinas, Mademoiselle Thérésine. The performance was divine, a story woven with elegant movements, enchanting music and a few moments of pure breathtaking joy. The whole experience filled my heart with the most fantastic feelings. She took to the stage in a pink tutu (my favourite colour, as you all know!) so ethereal it took my breath away. You wouldn't believe the energy she possessed on stage.

I know many of you are thinking: "Emma, I need a tutu just like the ballerinas in Paris!” Now, even though I am here to make every day #TutuTuesday, I must be honest: Finding a beautiful, custom tutu, is a little like finding a pearl hidden inside an oyster (a beautiful pearl, of course, much like our lovely ballerina, Mademoiselle Thérésine). However, I promise, my lovely readers, there are Tutu treasures waiting for you. I've spent the past few days, not only witnessing ballet’s glory in Paris but also hunting for treasures to share with you - and let me tell you, there are some real beauties out there.

• Madame La Fontaine: The most elegant - this exquisite shop is filled with beautiful materials for making the perfect tutu. From crisp, fine fabrics to delicate lace and ribbons, Madame La Fontaine provides everything you need to make your tutu dreams a reality. If you’re the creative type, definitely visit this little gem.

• Le Boudoir des Danseuses: This is your spot if you’re looking for something ready-made. I even picked up a gorgeous peach tutu for myself here, (of course, not forgetting a pink one too).

• The truly bespoke tutu - Le Fabricant des Rêves: It doesn't get more Parisian than this shop, housed in a lovely, historical building and with exceptional craftsmanship, I’m speaking of Le Fabricant des Rêves (literally The Fabricator of Dreams!) Here, a true artist - the legendary Monsieur Dupuis, with his skilled needle and thread, creates tutus that dream of coming to life! The *only way to obtain one of Monsieur Dupuis’ tutus? He only accepts bespoke orders. But when you get the opportunity to own a piece of his art, it truly is a one-of-a-kind piece!

To get back to the present, I hopped onto a steam engine (always so charming with the steam puffing away). This journey from the vibrant Paris streets to my quiet home in Derbyshire allows me some time to reflect on the glorious history we’ve covered! And you know, my time-travelling escapades teach me so much - not only about the history of ballet and tutus, but about our ever-changing world and its appreciation for the artistry and grace ballet has brought us!

I adore seeing how the tutus, even though different in design over the years, never cease to capture our hearts and express such delicate beauty and elegance. Remember my lovelies: we can bring that elegance into every day! Who needs to be in a grand theatre? We can twirl and twirl and dance wherever we want, making it the perfect opportunity for a pink tutu moment! And with that, let’s continue this delightful journey of tutus and their magic, together!

Don’t forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com every Tuesday and let me know what you think of this latest post in the comments! I adore your lovely messages. I would love to hear about your tutu adventures, big or small, and any special moments they have created in your life. Until next Tuesday, keep your tutus ready! 💖

(Emma adjusts her lovely pink tutu) And now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to the shops for a little tutu shopping spree… or maybe I'll even grab some tea at that little cafe in Paris. See you all next week, darling tutu lovers! ✨