Hello darlings, and welcome back to Pink Tutu! It's #TutuTuesday, and this week we're diving into the fascinating history of our beloved tutus! You won't believe where this magical garment's journey began. Let's travel back to Paris, 1883, where we can catch a glimpse of how fashion was evolving to inspire the dazzling tutus we know and love today.
Paris - a fashion-forward city
As a time-travelling ballerina, there's no better place to be than Paris on January 2nd, 1883! This charming city was truly brimming with artistic and fashionable excitement, just bursting with creative energy. Imagine - elegant ladies strolling along the cobblestones in their bouffant skirts, their silhouettes swaying like a graceful waltz, their hats adorned with feathers and lace. Paris, with its streets filled with beautiful boutiques and bustling salons, was the ultimate destination for fashion inspiration. A haven for all things elegant and chic!
Our Paris ballet experience
Of course, no Parisian journey would be complete without attending a breathtaking ballet performance at the beautiful Opéra Garnier, the pinnacle of theatrical grandeur. As I twirl through the grand entrance in my own custom-made pink tulle tutu, it's impossible not to feel utterly inspired by the elegance of the place.
The auditorium is abuzz with excitement, anticipation and a whispered buzz of conversation. I am particularly enchanted by the ladies' dresses, some daringly exposing their shoulders in fashionable bodices that give just a hint of what lies beneath. The gentleman’s impeccable evening attire is also truly striking, their sleek tails coats and trousers exuding a sense of charm and sophistication that can't be replicated.
And what was the program?
My eyes widen at the spectacle of the prima ballerina gracefully gliding across the stage, her pink tutu swirling and glittering under the ornate chandeliers. As I witness the incredible talent and grace, I marvel at the exquisite costumes that are on full display: velvet jackets with dazzling trim, the elaborate, romantic costumes worn by the ballerinas, their pale satins adorned with lace and sparkling jewels... it is truly spectacular!
And this brings us to the history of the tutu. What we call the tutu now wasn’t quite the tulle skirt we're familiar with today! You see, back in this time, ballerinas were adorned with long skirts, reaching their ankles! No glimpse of legs, no airy turns and leaps as we see in ballet today! It wasn’t until a few decades later that we see the introduction of shorter skirts, the first steps towards the modern tutu’s sleek, dramatic silhouette.
Shopping and Fashion - a Parisian delight
Ah, Paris! Where else can you indulge your inner fashionista? My dear, shopping here is like stepping into a dream! Imagine rows and rows of silk, satin, and lace fabrics! I simply adore the artistry and detail of fashion in Paris. Each fabric is meticulously chosen and the artistry of dressmaking - oh, I simply adore it! It's easy to get lost in the alluring, enchanting world of couture.
But don’t worry darlings, you don’t need to travel to Paris for amazing inspiration! The internet offers a myriad of amazing online boutiques to buy your next tulle tutu or ballet shoes! You simply have to remember, tutu history has taught us it's about owning your unique style, be it modern, romantic or a mix of both.
Sharing the magic of ballet - Tutu-tastic dreams!
In these turbulent times, a world consumed by news, it is all the more important to cherish and promote beauty, elegance and artistic brilliance! This is my aim, darling! That is why I embark on these trips through time. Why I share these fashion moments! For me, every moment is a magical chance to celebrate ballet and inspire more people to find joy, joy in their own bodies, their own style, the art and elegance that can come with embracing a love for the stage and fashion! I firmly believe everyone can join the pink tutu party. Don’t be afraid to embrace your inner grace and elegance and to spread some tutu-tastic joy!
Catch you next Tuesday for another installment of #TutuTuesday!
P.S. Remember, it’s never too late to dance!
Emma Pink Tutu Blogger
Stay stylish and dance like no one's watching! Visit www.pink-tutu.com for more tutu tips and tricks!
