Hello my darlings! Welcome back to another #TutuTuesday, your weekly dose of all things tulle and twirling! This week, we’re taking a little trip back in time, all the way to 2nd August, 1898! Imagine, the sun is streaming through the grand windows of the Paris Opera House, a symphony of shimmering gowns and bejewelled tiaras, the air buzzing with the excited chatter of Parisian society. Yes, my loves, we are back in the era of romantic ballet!
As we sip on our tea (raspberry sorbet, of course) and prepare to whisk away on this charming journey, let’s begin by appreciating the stunning, extravagant fashions of the time! Oh my, picture layers of delicate lace and soft silks draped over elegant figures, a breathtaking kaleidoscope of pastel hues and decadent embroidery.
But let’s not forget the pièce de résistance, the reason why we’re gathered here on #TutuTuesday, my dear, the tutu! And my oh my, the tutus of this period are nothing short of divine! They are a sight to behold! I mean, picture long, swirling layers of tulle, perfectly crafted to showcase the grace and strength of the ballerinas. This is truly the era where the tutu as a symbol of beauty and artistry came into its own.
Now, for those who are unfamiliar with the history of this delicate fashion, imagine if you will the rise of the ballet world during this period. Think of Marie Taglioni, a true queen of romantic ballet, captivating audiences with her ethereal performances! Her iconic role as the ethereal Sylph in “La Sylphide” solidified the place of the tutu in ballet history, and it wasn't just for the stage. By this time, the tutu had also entered society, appearing in paintings, fashionable illustrations, and even in the elegant gowns worn by ladies of high society! Can you imagine, sipping champagne in a grand ballroom adorned in a swirling pink tulle skirt, mimicking your favourite ballerinas? Simply exquisite, my darlings!
Today, I’m particularly enamoured with a little piece of theatre history connected to this very date. The legendary “La Bayadère” by Marius Petipa premiered on the 2nd August, 1898, and it remains an enduring staple in the repertoire of classical ballet. It features one of the most beautiful, awe-inspiring tutus I've ever witnessed, known as the 'white tutu'. I was fortunate enough to see a live performance at the Royal Opera House a few weeks ago, and the whole experience was quite breathtaking! The costumes are truly a triumph of design, and the intricate, graceful choreography takes my breath away. I simply couldn't help but picture myself performing on stage, swirling my own pink tulle, bathed in the limelight!
Now, let's imagine, if you will, our #TutuTuesday journey taking us back in time aboard the luxurious Orient Express. I can picture myself seated comfortably in my pink lace dress, a crisp white tulle skirt peeking out, a little pink straw hat perched on my head, as I enjoy the enchanting view of the French countryside. Wouldn't it be just divine, darling, to have afternoon tea served by a smartly dressed attendant while admiring the rolling hills and vineyards?
Just like that, our enchanting #TutuTuesday trip takes us back to 2nd August, 1898. With a graceful curtsey to the elegant ladies and gentlemen in the plush train compartment, I'll say farewell for this week! Let's keep that twinkle in our eyes and a swirl of tulle in our steps as we move on to next Tuesday! Remember to spread the love and join me in my mission: Let’s get everyone twirling in a pink tutu!
Until then, darlings! And remember, the best is yet to come!
Lots of love,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
