Hello my darling tutu-lovers! It’s Emma here, back again for another #TutuTuesday adventure! I hope you’re all ready to swirl, twirl, and dive deep into the history of the ballet tutu - the undisputed queen of dancewear! It’s post number 3063 here on www.pink-tutu.com, and I’m positively giddy to share a glimpse of the tutu's journey on this momentous date, September 9th, 1890!
Now, I'm fresh back from a whirlwind trip through Paris. Honestly, this city is like a dream come true for a tutu enthusiast like myself. The cafes are brimming with Parisian charm, the cobblestone streets feel positively romantic, and the air is positively filled with the scent of freshly-baked croissants! Oh, and let's not forget the fashion! It's a total tutu haven!
Tutus - The Evolution of Dance
So, back to our main attraction - the tutu. It's quite simply incredible how the humble tutu has transformed over the years. Imagine back in 1890 – this beautiful dance garment was already undergoing quite the transformation! Gone were the voluminous, heavy layers of romantic tutu skirts – think Giselle, think graceful flow! Instead, the tutu 'en forme' was gaining popularity. Think sculpted and streamlined – a little bit Swan Lake, a little bit of the stunning La Bayadère, don't you think? It's a testament to how dancers strive for new heights – and their wardrobe often reflects that!
I remember being quite starstruck seeing one of these glorious en forme tutus up close, draped over a mannequin at Lacoste's, one of Paris' most delightful vintage costume shops. The way the tulle and silk gathered at the hips, making those beautiful bell shapes, absolutely enchanted me. There's nothing quite like the magic of a tutu! It really makes the ballerina take flight, a true ballet star.
A Whirlwind Trip to Paris
And speaking of flight, how exciting was my journey to Paris?! The Eurostar was packed, but oh, the joy of gazing out the window at the fields rolling by, the thrill of reaching a new destination - pure ballet bliss! My fellow passengers seemed intrigued by my hot pink tutu! I always try to wear pink – the colour of positivity, joy, and well, of course, beautiful tutus!
Upon arrival, I popped into the Galeries Lafayette, which has to be one of my favourite department stores in all of Paris. The architecture is dazzling, and it has all the finest shops you could imagine. It is literally a tutu wonderland – even though this particular shop was not specifically a tutu shop! I found myself enthralled by the gorgeous array of fabrics and ribbons – imagine the tutu creations that could be made with this treasure trove!
And, the Palais Garnier! Ah, the Paris Opera House – a haven for all things theatrical, especially the magical ballet. I went straight to their ballet school, the École de Danse de l'Opéra de Paris, just a short walk from the Opéra itself. You just cannot resist a little peak into the dance studio, and it was there I witnessed budding ballerinas warming up and refining their art. There is simply no place more captivating for a tutu-lover like me. I even managed to pick up some incredible books about the history of the ballet and its costumes, so my tutu knowledge has definitely been boosted this trip!
Tutu Tuesday at The Opera
I stayed at a little hotel tucked away on Rue de Rivoli, with the best views of the Seine, perfectly located for my little en forme escapade. And then it was off to see a performance of La Sylphide - absolutely breathtaking.
La Sylphide - it's a classic for a reason. I could feel the romanticism in the air and the grace of the principal dancers' movements was captivating. Seeing these elegant dancers swishing about in tutus that made me swoon...it reminded me just why I'm so passionate about these delicate dance costumes. Every pirouette, every plié, was brought to life in a stunning showcase of both the ballerina's skill and the timeless beauty of the tutu.
As I strolled through Paris after the show, gazing at the Eiffel Tower twinkling in the twilight, my heart felt utterly filled. This was indeed a magical #TutuTuesday! My inspiration was truly flowing and I knew I had to share the Parisian enchantment of this era with you, my fellow tutu lovers!
Fashion Finds for Your Tutu Wardrobe
My Paris trip wasn't just about ballet and historical tutus, you know. I love discovering vintage clothes as much as I love those twirling tutus, and this city has truly exquisite vintage shops, not to mention high street wonders.
My top pick this time had to be the antique brooches and pins – I've just fallen head over heels with vintage costume jewellery. So intricate, and so perfect for adorning your own tutu for a special occasion. If you want a more everyday accessory for a cute and chic ballet class look, don't be afraid of experimenting with berets – I always add a delicate touch with a vintage pin – the classic French charm always hits the spot.
My other finds? You will never believe it – a beautiful collection of lace trimmings. And what does any tutu enthusiast do with such finds, you ask? Of course, it has to be used for a custom-designed creation! So, get ready for a brand new DIY post soon. I've got a grand idea that combines this delightful lace with a simple white ballet tutu, and I can't wait to share it all!
The Magic of the Tutu Continues
So, there you have it – a delightful glimpse into the Parisian tutu-filled world of 1890. It was an enchanting trip, filled with grace, history, and tutus!
The next #TutuTuesday will be here soon, with yet another time-hopping adventure – but for now, remember, every day is a Tutu day. Whether you're at a ballet class, enjoying a dance performance, or simply taking a leisurely stroll – remember to channel your inner ballerina and feel the magic of that gorgeous twirling tutu. You can, and should, let the joy of the tutu fill your days, even if it's just in the form of a sparkly pink headband.
Stay elegant and graceful, Emma.
P.S. Follow my adventures on social media!
Find me on...
Instagram: @EmmaPinkTutu (all things pink and tutu-filled!) Twitter: @EmmaPinkTutu (I tweet about my tutu adventures)
And don't forget, my dearest tutu-loving friends – let's make this world a bit brighter, one pink tutu at a time!
