Hello lovelies!
It's Emma here, your trusty pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you back to the glorious days of 1890! As always, we're on a quest to uncover the history of the most magical garment in the world - the tutu!
Today's #TutuTuesday takes us to the heart of Parisian ballet. I've popped on my favourite pink number (it’s a new one, purchased on a whim at a fabulous shop on the Rue de la Paix!) and hopped aboard the Orient Express - always a fabulous choice for a time traveller - to delve into the Parisian ballet scene. It's such a magical time, just bursting with creative energy and artistic inspiration.
A Glimpse Back in Time
Imagine a world where tutus weren’t just worn by ballerinas - they were the ultimate symbol of feminine elegance and style! This is exactly what we find in the ballet world of 1890. Think romanticism, dreamy waltzes, and a sense of freedom expressed through flowing tulle and shimmering silk.
At this time, ballet wasn't just a performance. It was a society event, and Parisian women of style took every opportunity to see the latest innovations in dance and fashion.
Where can we see a ballet in Paris?
It's not the Opéra Garnier we know and love today, darling! On this particular date, the Opera House is under renovations. Thankfully, there are other exciting theatres popping up in Paris where we can find fantastic ballet performances. This September, the Théâtre de la Gaîté is hosting an exceptional production of Le Roi de Cambodge. Just the mention of that name is enough to get me in a swoon! And the costumes - I hear there are magnificent tutus with ornate patterns and beautiful colours, some even adorned with sparkling sequins. I simply can't wait to witness this delightful spectacle.
A Tutu's Tale
Now, a little bit about those incredible tutus we are discussing! They’ve evolved considerably since their early days, becoming a little bit less cumbersome. They are a beautiful testament to artistry and craftmanship - think soft layers of tulle, delicately crafted with ruffles, embellishments and even floral accents.
The Evolution of Tutu Fashion
It’s not just the tutu itself that is experiencing evolution - the entire world of fashion is undergoing an exciting metamorphosis. Look around at all those fabulous hats! What a dazzling array of colors and shapes, some even with feathers or lace. Every lady is a little bit of a ballerina - just imagine what they could do with a pink tutu! I must try to spread this magical style to the world! I have it all planned. First, London!
My Journey of Pink
It's clear, isn't it? My time travelling escapades aren't just about ballet, they are also about discovering the history of fashion, art, and yes, my absolute favourite colour - pink. This glorious colour has taken me to every corner of the world, through all sorts of times! But this time period in Paris is truly a highlight.
And wouldn't you know it, I discovered a new favourite boutique just this week on my jaunt through Parisian shops! It's brimming with pink ribbon and bows and everything you need to be a little bit fancy, a little bit Parisian.
But of course, you've all come to read about the history of the tutu - and this 19th Century journey is absolutely crucial to that story! I've already been to the opera this morning (it is almost eleven!) and caught a sneak peak at the rehearsal of the Le Roi de Cambodge ballet. They are amazing! But, more about the evolution of the tutu in next week's post, I think!
#TutuTuesday, you're in for a treat!
As always, please share your love for the tutu, the colour pink and the magical world of ballet. Join me on my Instagram at @Emma_PinkTutu! You know how I love a good hashtag. 💖 I've also put a few beautiful images of my tutu adventures from the world of Parisian fashion in the blog this week - keep an eye out.
I can’t wait to see you next week! Remember - always wear a tutu with confidence! 💖🩰
*See you on the other side of time travel! *
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
(This post is blog post 3065, as part of her Ballet Tutu History series on her blog, www.pink-tutu.com. )
