Hello my lovely tutu-loving darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com!
It’s me, Emma, your favourite time-travelling ballerina, back with another #TutuTuesday dive into the magical world of tutus. I can hardly believe this is post number 3299. How exciting is that?
This week I'm whizzing us back to 19th century Paris, the city that is synonymous with ballet! The city of light is brimming with creative energy, from grand boulevards to intimate theatres, the French capital is overflowing with style and elegance.
The Paris Opera House is abuzz with the buzz of exciting premieres and exquisite performances, all dazzling under sparkling chandeliers. Oh, how I long to slip into a theatre seat right now, surrounded by the whispers and the crackle of excitement.
Speaking of exquisite performances, 1895 has been an extraordinary year for ballet! Just last month, Diaghilev unveiled a breathtaking ballet adaptation of 'The Swan Lake.' It was pure magic! I was lucky enough to witness this stunning spectacle, with its swirling costumes and unforgettable choreography, all set in the glorious Salle de l’Opéra. The applause was deafening. This year has definitely solidified the dominance of Russian ballet, with all eyes on the talented performers.
Oh, my lovelies, I was especially enraptured by the graceful movements of Anna Pavlova, a dancer who embodies everything we look for in a ballerina. She captivated everyone with her grace and poise, moving with such effortless lightness, and it has inspired so many. It is because of talented dancers like Pavlova and Olga Preobrajenska that we see the evolution of the modern-day tutu.
Can we just take a moment to appreciate how transformative the tutu has been for ballet? It wasn’t so long ago that dancers had to create their own costumes, usually just layering petticoats or lace around themselves to create a more voluminous shape. But the arrival of the classic 'tutu-like’ shape, made with tulle (oh, the possibilities!), in the mid 19th Century changed everything!
These 'tutus', with their soft, layered, flowing design allowed dancers such incredible movement, showcasing their grace and artistry. The tulle allows for delicate swishes and spins, creating captivating, fluid motions.
It truly was a dance revolution! I was able to acquire one of these first "tutus" while I was in the Paris archives. I wore it at a luncheon at The Ritz just last week, and it was the perfect piece! The delicate white tulle created the perfect contrast against the dark-toned walls and furnishings, while my elegant silk scarf gave a nod to the latest Parisian fashion. It's a privilege to wear such an iconic garment!
So you might be asking yourselves 'Emma, what's hot in Parisian fashion in 1895? ' And my darlings, I wouldn’t dare keep you in the dark! Fashion in Paris is all about soft feminine curves and opulent detail.
Imagine silks and velvets, rich in color and texture, draping delicately over the feminine figure. We see lace, ruffles, and delicate ribbons, delicate hat's and parasols, it's all about highlighting the femininity and sophistication. Oh! And have you seen the exquisite jewelry? The use of delicate gems and pearls is breathtaking.
My heart beats a little faster when I spot these fashion delights, and I simply had to snag a few pieces for myself. It's an absolute privilege to indulge in this era's incredible elegance, but you know me, I wouldn't leave without some little something special for you lovelies, a reminder of this fantastic trip!
I discovered a magnificent new haberdashery on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré called "Maison Au Bon Marché". It's the place to be for fabric, trim, and haberdashery - just like a ballerina dreams of.
They were having a sale this week so I snagged an assortment of the most delicate tulle, silk ribbons, lace, and pearl beads - all in the most beautiful pastel tones. Just wait until you see the delicious pink hues! I know you're all going to want to "sew" these beauties into something spectacular.
Let’s have a peek at what the future holds for tutu history: *a new era of tutu artistry is already blossoming. *
The late 1800s saw a transformation in dance, with new interpretations of movement, and ballets incorporating grand themes. Think The Sleeping Beauty, and Swan Lake.
There is a new level of drama, emotion, and sheer visual artistry in dance and the tutu is more than just an ornament, it's becoming a powerful tool, adding to the emotions and narratives of these incredible ballets!
Imagine, a mere few decades later we will be witnessing the dazzling performances of Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev, performing before sold-out crowds, with tutus capturing the eyes of everyone!
My dear Tutu-loving companions, I can’t wait to travel further into time with you, discovering more fabulous tutus. If you have any requests for a #TutuTuesday adventure, let me know and don’t forget to send your Tutu photos! I’d love to see how you are spreading the Tutu Love.
Until next Tuesday, dear friends,
Keep those tutus spinning,
Emma xo
P.S. My travels back to the 19th century are a bit expensive, but I am delighted to help out fellow tutu enthusiasts, so be sure to catch me in action at the next London performance. I’m dancing in The Nutcracker on 31st December at the Royal Albert Hall! You can see my pink tutu dazzling on stage – and I can't wait to make memories and sparkle with you!
