Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, dedicated to all things tutu. It’s a glorious Tuesday morning in Paris, the city that whispers fashion and flutters with grace. The sun is peeking through the cobblestone streets, painting everything with a warm, buttery light that makes even the most ordinary corner seem enchanting. I just adore Paris – the shops are simply divine, and the air feels infused with romance.
Now, let's dive into our time-travelling adventure today! This week we’re dancing our way back to the 26th of March, 1895, and oh my, what a whirlwind of fashion and ballet this era is. I can hardly contain myself! Just picture it: lace and tulle billowing around elegant ladies, graceful ballerinas swirling across stages, and a symphony of whispers in every café. What a glorious time!
Imagine stepping out onto the Parisian streets, the scent of croissants and fresh bread filling your senses. Parisian ladies, in their finest frocks, parade along the boulevards, their hats adorned with feathers and their waists cinched with elegant corsets. The fashion, my dears, is simply spectacular – voluminous gowns with intricate embroidery, delicate lace trimmings, and the very latest trend: the tutu.
Yes, tutus! I just adore those impossibly fluffy skirts! In 1895, tutus are all the rage on the stages of Paris. Ballerinas are a vision in shimmering silk and lace, their tutus reaching incredible heights of voluminous elegance, especially in the “Romantic” style that dominated ballet in that era. Imagine an abundance of layered tulle – the softer the better, all culminating in a graceful silhouette. It's pure feminine magic!
Speaking of romantic ballet, we’re talking about some real icons here! Today marks a very special day for dance enthusiasts: the debut of the very first version of the beloved ballet, "La Belle au Bois Dormant".
My dears, let me tell you, “Sleeping Beauty” is the epitome of grace and charm! Tchaikovsky’s enchanting music sweeps you away, and the story itself is pure fairytale wonder. Imagine being whisked off to a magical world of princes, princesses, and fairies! Now imagine this breathtaking performance with a backdrop of the opulence of the Parisian Opéra Garnier! What a truly memorable spectacle!
Oh, the magic of Parisian theatre! The exquisite costumes, the sparkling chandeliers, and the sheer spectacle of it all leave you utterly breathless. Just the other day I was mesmerized watching the ballet “Swan Lake” - and wouldn't you know it, the leading ballerina wore the most glorious white tutu, with feathers that mimicked the very wings of a swan! Absolutely captivating!
It is through these moments of beauty that we can learn from our past and truly appreciate the ever-evolving magic of ballet. And for a ballet enthusiast like me, these past times make me truly appreciate what we wear today, as you can imagine. These ladies loved fashion as much as I do.
Speaking of which, just as the era is brimming with creativity in the ballet world, Parisian boutiques are also overflowing with stunning fashion. There are so many lovely boutiques in Paris, my head is spinning with possibilities. There is the Magasin de la Mode with its exquisite creations and La Païva - known for their glamorous creations. You can see where our contemporary high fashion is getting inspiration, I promise you!
But my heart always skips a beat when I find a shop with a beautifully displayed collection of tulle. I just have to go into those shops! Oh, to lose myself in a world of shimmering fabrics, swirling designs, and the soft, billowy feel of tulle against my fingers. If only I could bottle that feeling!
I dream of sharing that feeling with all of you. Because why just dream when we can all be twirling in a gorgeous pink tutu? (It’s time to #GetTutuing! That’s my personal mission!) My mission is to inspire you all to embrace your own inner ballerina, whatever your shape or size. And the easiest way to do that? By wearing a tutu!
It’s simple: pink is my favourite colour, but frankly any colour looks sensational, doesn't it? Whether it’s a fluffy tulle confection or a classic white ballet skirt, there’s a perfect tutu for everyone.
I believe that embracing the whimsical and the charming can truly add magic to life. And wearing a tutu? Now that’s just pure, unadulterated magic. So, what are you waiting for, my dear friends? Go forth, and find your inner ballerina!
Now, my journey will be continued in Derbyshire. Where I live and call home. But soon, my dears, soon I'll be travelling back to this glamorous city for another wonderful Parisian adventure.
I can’t wait to see what fashion awaits me! I’m already dreaming of tulle! Remember to join me next week for a new #TutuTuesday adventure and share your own stories, and let me know what kind of tutus you’re loving.
Until then, remember to twirl on, dear friends!
Your Tutu-obsessed travel blogger,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
