Hello lovelies! It's Emma, your resident pink-tutu-loving time-travelling ballerina, back with another Tutu Tuesday! This week, I've hopped aboard my trusty steam train and zipped back to 29th May 1906 – a year bursting with dazzling fashions and a Parisian flourish.
As always, I’ve been on the hunt for all things tutu-related. Imagine my delight at discovering a world brimming with opulent opera houses and majestic ballets! We’re smack-dab in the heart of the Belle Époque, a time of flourishing arts, and darling, it's tres chic.
The year 1906 was a particularly exciting one for ballet. I just couldn’t wait to twirl my way back into this elegant era! The first thing I noticed – pink, pink, and more pink! Just as I like it. Everywhere you looked – in the cafes, on the streets, even at the theatre – there was this vibrant, beautiful shade. Think coral, salmon, blush – the Parisian fashion houses had gone mad for all things rose-tinted. And who am I to complain? My wardrobe is basically an explosion of bubblegum hues, and pink just goes so well with a tulle tutu, wouldn’t you agree?
Speaking of tutus... Oh, my dears, the tutus! I wouldn’t say they were precisely the romantic, billowing numbers we adore today. They were much shorter, even closer to the body, highlighting the ballerina's form with a graceful silhouette. Think refined rather than voluminous. And yet, those intricate designs! Every layer of tulle was a little piece of art – hand-stitched with silk and velvet and adorned with the most delicate embroidery and sequins. It was a dream come true for any fashion-loving ballerina!
To get my fix of ballet magic, I ventured to the Opéra Garnier in Paris. Now, darling, this opera house was stunning! Marble floors, crystal chandeliers, red velvet seating... you wouldn't believe the grandeur!
The ballet I saw that evening was a masterpiece, a celebration of love, sorrow, and, of course, dancing! The Corps de Ballet, in their elegant pink tutus, were a kaleidoscope of movement and grace, twirling and leaping with such precision it took my breath away.
I spent hours after the performance perusing the nearby boutiques. They were simply bursting with lace, silks, and velvets - oh, and I even spotted some beautiful tutus! I was a little disappointed, mind you, that no one was selling tutus as readily as today - perhaps I'll have to convince the local seamstress to whip up a batch for my little Parisian excursion!
But even though fashion was taking giant strides, the real reason I’m obsessed with 1906 is the legendary ballerinas. They were truly revolutionary! Imagine dancing your heart out for the adoring Parisian crowd – pure magic! Just the thought of those intricate pirouettes and stunning leaps – pure, effortless artistry.
As much as I'd like to share every detail of this amazing journey, we are all on a tight schedule, aren't we, lovelies?
I’ve even spotted a rather exceptional pink tulle that's just perfect for a Tutu Tuesday Challenge. Be sure to check back tomorrow and catch a sneak peek of my pink-a-licious ensemble!
Now, excuse me, darlings, my trusty train's waiting! But before I bid you farewell, I need you all to go forth and embrace your inner ballerina! Who knows, you might even find a dusty box in your attic with a vintage tutu inside – imagine the magic you could create!
Until next time, remember – it’s all about the tutu.
Lots of love and happy twirling,
Emma x
