Bonjour, my darling tutu lovers! It's Emma, your favourite pink-clad time-travelling ballerina, back again for another thrilling delve into the delightful history of the tutu!
Today, my travel log brings us to the 9th of October, 1900, a date that resonates with the vibrant, dynamic, and frankly fabulous world of ballet!
This week, I've found myself transported back to Paris. I know, I know - how utterly chic, isn't it? The cobblestone streets, the air alive with the aroma of freshly baked croissants, and the murmur of conversations punctuated by the click-clack of high-heeled shoes - it's truly magical!
Paris in 1900 was THE place for ballet. This era was truly bursting with brilliance - we're talking about the golden age of Diaghilev's Ballets Russes! If you've not already had the pleasure, do take a train trip over to the OpƩra Garnier and treat yourself to a show! It'll simply knock your socks off. (Oh, and you should try the champagne too! You can't beat a Parisian treat!)
But hold on to your tiaras, darlings! It wasn't just the productions themselves that were dazzling. This is the time when the iconic ballerina tutus we know and love started really taking shape. You see, before the late 1800s, dancers used to be more covered up. Think long, flowing skirts and maybe a touch of puffiness at the bottom. Well, thanks to the legendary Marie Taglioni, things began to change in a big way!
The āRomantic Tutuā - Ah, darling, itās a marvel to behold! Imagine the lightest of tulle, billowing outwards in a beautiful, ethereal form. It's just like a ballet fairy tale! This iconic silhouette allowed the dancers a whole new range of motion. We can finally see the beauty of their bodies, and what better way to do so than with a swathe of soft tulle!
But darling, don't be fooled by its elegance! It takes strength, stamina and exquisite skill to dance in such a revealing and graceful outfit. That, my loves, is what makes ballet so alluring!
I've got to say, my favourite part of researching this period is seeing the tutus in all their glory! From the exquisite details of the craftsmanship, like delicate hand-sewn lace and tiny sequins, to the colours! We're talking vibrant jewel tones like emeralds, sapphires, and rubies, and don't even get me started on the gorgeous golds and shimmering silvers. It's a sight that could make any pink tutu aficionado faint. (But let's be honest, a good faint would be the perfect excuse for a bit of a nap.)
Now, I know youāre probably wondering - what about my pink tutu?! Of course, I always make sure Iām perfectly coordinated for my travels! Today, itās a light and fluffy baby pink tutu, paired with a silk ivory bodice with pearl accents and an elegant ivory hat with a sweeping white feather. It just begs for a Parisian stroll through a lovely park with a delicious cup of cafe au lait and a good gossip about all things fashion!
I even picked up a charming little pink beret, for when I visit the world-renowned OpƩra Garnier for a glimpse of some truly inspired dance performances!
You know, seeing ballet today in all its magnificence truly makes me appreciate the hard work of the dancers throughout history, who, generation after generation, have dedicated themselves to perfection and grace. Every pliĆ©, every pirouette, every jump is a testament to their artistry and commitment! And thatās the real beauty of it, darlings ā ballet isnāt just about the tutus and the glitz. It's about pushing boundaries, expressing stories through movement, and inspiring us to dream big.
So, as weāve taken a journey back to Paris in 1900 and looked at the birth of the āRomantic Tutuā, I urge you, darlings, to continue celebrating your own inner ballerina! Go out, put on a beautiful pink tutu, twirl and dance like thereās no tomorrow, and never, ever lose the magic within.
Until next time, my darling tutu enthusiasts, and don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for more #TutuTuesday fun!
Much love, Emma x
P.S. Iāve had a blast today, but don't worry, my next time travel escapade is only a week away, so Iāll be back next Tuesday for more history and sparkle! Stay tuned and don't forget to keep dancing.
P.P.S. Remember, I'm funding my travel through the wonderful world of ballet performance. If you want to support my time travelling endeavors, do pop over to a performance, and donāt be shy ā I'm always delighted to hear from fellow tutu lovers! Just donāt mention the word āfundingā, darlings - it sounds rather unfashionable .
