#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1905-05-16

Bonjour mes chéries! It’s Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller, back with another instalment of Ballet Tutu History! Today, we’re venturing to the heart of the ballet world: Paris! The year is 1905, and the air is thick with excitement for the latest production at the Opéra Garnier. Can you believe, dear readers, that the glorious Opéra Garnier has only been standing for just over thirty years! But what an era it marks!

I've hopped on the train to Paris, you see, which for me, is half the fun. The bustling train ride with all the fashionable ladies in their finery and stylish hats makes the journey a delight.

Arriving in Paris, my heart thumps with anticipation. This grand city is brimming with style and sophistication, and it feels absolutely alive with excitement about all things fashion and art. The Palais Garnier stands imposing and elegant, its architecture reflecting the sheer artistry it houses. Inside, the excitement is tangible; the whispers of anticipation mixed with the soft hum of the orchestra fills the air. A hush descends as the curtain rises, and I feel the magic begin.

But hold on, you’re thinking! Isn't it a bit early to call the tutu iconic? Well, dear readers, not exactly! We’re at a fascinating stage in tutu history. In the 1900s, ballet costumes, especially those worn in France, have evolved into what we now know and love. You know the classic look of a dancer: the airy, form-fitting, diaphanous white fabric that flows with the dancer's movements?

This is not a long way off, but it wasn’t a tutu as we know it yet. In 1905, ballet costumes were often still knee-length, and there's still a fair amount of fabric! There are lots of ruffles and frills. And, the most remarkable change for me, ladies, is that colour has finally arrived in the tutu world! Yes, ballerinas, both soloists and members of the corps de ballet, are wearing a range of shades - from dreamy pastel hues to vibrant splashes of colours. They are using colour as an element of their art, making each piece even more unique. It's like a kaleidoscope of delicate, graceful movement!

Speaking of ballerinas, what are they dancing? On this day, we’re lucky enough to catch a performance of "La Source" by Léo Delibes, which is enjoying a revival after its debut in 1866. What is captivating about this piece is that we see the development of the role of the ballerina within a classical dance production.

“La Source” tells the tale of a Nymph, a goddess who inspires her nymphs and then takes on the challenge to inspire a young prince. It’s quite an exciting role for the dancers as it allows the choreographers of the day to experiment and explore with new movements. It's just divine to witness these lovely ballerinas grace the stage!

One of the delights of coming back to Paris, and something that keeps me ever coming back, is seeing all the magnificent and luxurious outfits of the fashionable Parisian women! While we see fashion changes coming in Paris and around Europe with more ladies sporting practical blouses and shorter skirts in their daily wear, nothing beats seeing the Parisian women come out to dress in their grand gowns for the Opera. What fabulous outfits they all create and wear - just like we do today! I love to try and glean as many of their tips as I can - a lovely piece of ribbon placed around your waist can do wonders for any frock, for example, and always choose the highest heel shoe! I hope we don't see those ever going out of fashion.

But enough about my shopping escapades (more about them on another blog post - follow my #FashionFriday tag, darlings)! Back to the ballet! After the ballet, I find myself in the beautiful cafes of Paris. You know I always love to spend time exploring the beautiful cafes of Paris, enjoying a cup of delicious tea while sketching outfits that have caught my eye - it's an inspiring place to be. Parisian life really seems to suit the Parisian woman and their outfits, which are just a bit daring and a bit playful. And all the stylish cafes offer delicious pastries - it’s hard not to enjoy it! The delicious treats make such great snacks. The cafes are just teeming with creativity, gossip and romance.

So there you have it, dear readers, my glimpse into the Parisian ballet world in 1905! We're truly in the heart of ballet’s evolution and are seeing some beautiful designs emerge. If you’re in the Parisian area on the 16th of May, 1905, head down to the Opéra Garnier for a spectacle that’s truly enchanting. And, just to get into the mood, don your very best, frilliest pink tutu - for you are all stars, too!

Until next Tuesday, stay lovely, stay stylish, and wear that pink tutu with pride!

Your devoted Emma www.pink-tutu.com