Welcome back, dear readers, to Pink-Tutu.com! This week on #TutuTuesday, I'm taking you back to September 21st, 1886, for a peek into the world of the ballet and, you guessed it, tutus! I can hardly contain my excitement as I'm about to share some fascinating insights about fashion during the fin de siècle. Just picture it: Paris, the beating heart of style and elegance, is buzzing with life. Ladies are donning exquisite dresses with bustle backs, feathers are all the rage, and, believe me, tutus are making a splash!
This week, my time travelling took me on a journey to Paris - the only place to be, truly, for the ultimate tutu experience. My dress? Why, a delectable shade of pink, naturally! A tiered tulle masterpiece, perfect for a whirlwind dance through time. Just imagining myself swirling on the stage brings a sparkle to my eyes - it's hard to keep my toes from tapping!
A Tale of Two Tutus:
Imagine my surprise when I realised that even back in 1886, there were two types of tutus already gracing the stage: The Romantic tutu and the classical, or paquita, tutu!
Let's begin with the Romantic tutu. It's almost like a fairytale, flowing with long, gossamer layers of tulle - a true symbol of romanticism! Think delicate and ethereal, evoking dreams and longing. These graceful creations reached all the way to the floor, offering the ballerinas a captivating presence, swirling like wisps of clouds on the stage.
But let's not forget the paquita tutu! With its shorter, tighter design, it hugged the ballerina's body, showcasing her incredible strength and flexibility. Think of a playful ballerina who could really move, a blur of elegance and athleticism - it's a vision that takes my breath away.
Beyond the Tutu:
My visit to the Parisian ballet scene was truly eye-opening. You could see the world of fashion reflected in the theatre, just like today.
The ballerinas' costumes: Not only tutus, of course. Their bodices were masterpieces of intricately embroidered velvet, delicate lace, and ribbons, showcasing their graceful silhouettes. Every detail, from the colour choices to the jewelled headbands, spoke of the beauty and artistry of the era.
The theatre audience: Imagine rows of gentlemen sporting velvet waistcoats and top hats. Ladies were resplendent in exquisite gowns with sweeping trains and elegant parasols. You'd find opera glasses twinkling in the soft glow of the gas lamps, and the air would be buzzing with excited conversations. It's such a glorious atmosphere!
Ballet as a spectacle: Imagine the entire stage covered in gorgeous props, elaborate sets, and vibrant colours. There was a grandeur to it all - truly a spectacle for the senses! Ballet was about entertaining, transporting you to a world of fantasy and artistry.
Where are my ballet-loving friends from Derbyshire? Have any of you caught a ballet show recently? Do tell me about it in the comments!
Of course, my travels through time always have me pondering...what tutu should I create next? My mind is full of pink-tinted dreams, perhaps a combination of the paquita tutu and Romantic tutu, or maybe even a brand-new style of tutu that would sweep the fashion world of the future off its feet!
And what's going on on this day, September 21st, 1886? A historic ballet premiere at the Opera Garnier in Paris, none other than "La Source", an enchanting ballet filled with Romantic tutus, exquisite dancing, and captivating sets. I'd give anything to step back into that moment - oh, the beauty! I might just make a return trip to the Garnier, who knows?
Until then, I must continue to spread the gospel of tutus across the timelines! Don't forget to check back next week, for a fresh dose of #TutuTuesday on Pink-Tutu.com - it's time to get your own tutu on, ladies!
Yours truly,
Emma
Pink-Tutu.com: Because everyone deserves a pink tutu!
