Hello my lovelies! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back again for another #TutuTuesday journey through the history of our beloved ballet tutus! Buckle up, darlings, because today we're taking a train trip to the heart of Parisian ballet in 1884, where tutus were becoming a true fashion phenomenon.
Remember, my love for tutus takes me all over the world and through the ages! I fund my trips by dancing in ballet shows - the more I dance, the more I travel. Last week, I was pirouetting in Vienna, and this week, I'm waltzing through the glittering streets of Paris! I'm not quite sure how time travel works, but I do know that wherever I go, my pink tutu always brings a smile to everyone's face - even those stern Parisian gentlemen. It seems even the most jaded critic melts at the sight of a frilly, pink confection.
So, why are we heading to 1884 Paris? Because this year, my dears, the Paris Opéra Ballet were preparing to debut a masterpiece that forever changed ballet costumes: Giselle.
The iconic white tutu, still worn by ballerinas today, actually debuted as part of Giselle’s costume. In 1841, Giselle was considered a groundbreaking production - a daring step into a new world of dramatic and lyrical ballet, all wrapped up in a captivating story. Giselle's ethereal tutu, with its layers of soft white tulle and delicate embroidery, became a symbol of feminine grace and vulnerability.
However, the ballet world wasn’t ready for such revolutionary style back then. They were still using heavier materials, restricting the ballerinas' movement and obscuring their delicate forms. But Giselle's iconic white tutu represented a break from those traditional constrictions. Its ethereal softness became a symbol of change.
I'm in love with the beauty of this era. Parisian style, even beyond ballet, was full of elegance and grace. Just imagine, ladies: intricate bonnets, billowing gowns, silk parasols - and every fashionable Parisian lady with a keen eye for fashion. You can imagine I was in heaven - particularly since this was the age of the bustle! The perfect, voluminous shape for tutus to shine, right?
Speaking of shopping! Oh, darling, Paris in the late 19th century was heaven for a fashion lover like me. From the grand department stores on Boulevards Haussmann, like La Samaritaine and Le Bon Marché, to the intimate ateliers nestled in the Marais, the streets were alive with possibilities! There was simply so much inspiration, and I made the most of it, shopping till I dropped, and learning about the fascinating world of dressmaking. Imagine hand-sewing beautiful layers of tulle for a perfect tutu! It was such a hands-on era.
On this very date, 1884-10-07, I witnessed a truly magnificent sight. The Comédie Française, a renowned theatrical institution, was putting on a dazzling performance. From my front row seat, I watched as the actors performed in their elegant costumes, with exquisite jewelry sparkling under the gaslights. It was like being transported to a fairy tale, and it inspired me to make sure every outfit I design has an element of theatricality.
Even today, dear readers, Giselle's legacy continues. From the world-renowned Paris Opera to regional ballet companies around the world, ballerinas in their white tutus take the stage and tell the story of Giselle. It's a timeless testament to the magic of dance, the power of fashion, and the elegance of tutus.
Of course, my journey in time wouldn’t be complete without a peek into Parisian nightlife! Paris in 1884 was buzzing with cabarets, theatre performances, and, of course, ballrooms! The elegant waltzes of the era paired so well with the tutus worn by those present.
It seems that, for most, a tutu wasn’t just for ballet in these times! We love to see a little tutu peeking out beneath a woman's gown. It's no wonder the tutus of this era inspire us so much, and we try our best to create similar beauty in the contemporary world!
While Paris, and the beautiful French culture, will forever hold a special place in my heart, I’m constantly finding myself pulled forward by a desire to continue my quest of sharing tutus with the world! Who knows where my next journey will take me? Perhaps 1950s London for the rise of ballets by Dame Margot Fonteyn? Or a glimpse into the tutu design of the 1920s in America?
For now, remember that you can wear your pink tutus and live out your own fantasies. No need for time travel! Embrace the spirit of dance, the love of ballet, and a sprinkle of fairy tale in your life!
Don't forget to come back next week for more #TutuTuesday adventures, my lovelies! Keep on dancing and stay fabulous.
Yours always,
Emma, your time-traveling ballerina
www.pink-tutu.com
