Hello darlings, and welcome back to Pink Tutu! I'm your friendly neighbourhood ballerina blogger, Emma, back with another exciting journey through the history of our beloved tutu! Today, we're hopping on the time-travelling train (and by the way, the first-class carriage on the Orient Express is simply divine!), to the year 1889, a date full of both historical and tutu-rific importance. Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dance through some seriously glamorous times!
But before we step into the past, let's acknowledge that today, dear reader, is Tutu Tuesday. Yes, that means I am wearing a beautiful pink tutu (this one is a light, airy chiffon number, perfect for my trip to Paris!) and I hope you're wearing a tutu, too! It's the perfect excuse to twirl your way into the day and spread a little bit of pink tutu magic wherever you go! 💕
So, 1889... the world is buzzing with excitement, from the grand opening of the Eiffel Tower (which by the way, is breathtaking! My darling tutu has already twirled its way through its arched structures, and let me tell you, it's just magnificent!) to the vibrant world of art nouveau, everything is a feast for the eyes. It’s no surprise then, that dance, and our cherished tutu, is at its zenith!
The dance scene is particularly captivating, dear reader! At the Opéra Garnier, in Paris (and let’s be honest, darling, Paris has a special place in our hearts when it comes to fashion and dance, don’t you agree?), a truly remarkable premiere is just a few months away! We’re talking about none other than “Giselle”, the romantic ballet that stole hearts and redefined the graceful lines of the tutu, making it an iconic part of dance history!
In this era, tutus are still firmly rooted in the romantic, flowing aesthetic, though their forms are becoming bolder. Longer, flowing skirts in white or delicate pastel shades are creating a sense of ethereal grace, much like the exquisite beauty of the Parisian countryside. And, can you believe, tutus are making their way off the stage and into the homes of the most fashionable ladies! Imagine it, darling - the most coveted fashion statement is not a grand gown or a magnificent brooch, but a tutu. Who wouldn’t want to wear the epitome of beauty, grace, and elegance?
Speaking of fashion, I must tell you about my latest finds from my trip to the Parisian department stores! (A dear friend, who’s actually a time traveller, recommended these stores! Turns out, these big department stores are full of exquisite finery and stunning garments – absolutely breathtaking!). I bought an utterly fabulous hat with plumes and a few silk scarves – perfect for pairing with a fluffy white tutu! The sheer number of fashionable, yet refined pieces on offer here are astounding, dear reader! The Parisian elegance, the luxurious silks, the impeccable tailoring – all truly inspiring, and a little reminder to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry of each exquisite creation.
Back to 1889, dear reader! I'm quite certain there are tea rooms nestled around every corner of Paris (where else could you get a delightful éclair, or even a pink tutu-inspired macaron? A most charming detail!) and I simply must get a cup of the most delicate pink tea I can find – after all, how can one appreciate a historical tour without proper tea time, darling?
Oh, and while I am here in the City of Lights, it wouldn’t be a true fashionista trip without indulging in a bit of a Parisian ballet experience, darling! A peek behind the scenes at the Opéra Garnier, catching a glimpse of the legendary ballerinas practicing their routines – the energy, the dedication, and the graceful steps - it’s almost magical! To see a glimpse of how this dance form captures so much emotion and feeling – through just movement - it is truly magical! I simply had to take notes in my little notebook! I have always believed in learning from the greats – no matter the era, dear reader!
On a personal note, I am just bursting with excitement to announce that I will be sharing a tutorial on how to sew your own tutus this month! This month, dear reader, it's all about getting hands-on with creating your very own ballerina ensemble. You’ll get to play with the beautiful soft fabrics and feel like you’ve truly stepped into the era of romantic ballet and its elegance – it will make your tutu twirls all the more fun! 💖 I will be releasing a detailed video and step-by-step instructions in the next couple of weeks, but, I will give you one little tip now, dear reader - consider lace trim or silk ribbon for a real Parisian chic feel to your very own creation!
Well, darlings, time flies when you’re enjoying a cup of pink tea, shopping for exquisite ribbons and plumes, and swirling through time with a dazzling tutu. So I must say “adieu!” but not before reminding you that Tutu Tuesday is just a twirl away every Tuesday! See you next time, dear reader!
