Dearest readers,
It's Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast, popping in for another fabulous #TutuTuesday installment from my very own Ballet Tutu History blog! This week we're whisking back to 11th September 1906. Ooh la la, what a date! The world is bursting with creativity and a delightful dose of glamour.
This Tuesday I've hopped off the Orient Express, in Paris, just moments before a stunning ballet performance at the Opéra Garnier. Paris, my darlings, is a tutu haven! Every street corner seems to boast a couture house churning out exquisite fabrics and magnificent designs, and let me tell you, it's impossible to resist the urge to get your hands on those sensational ribbons and layers of tulle. Oh, the delights!
A Parisian Promenade
But before I delve into the historical tutu trends, imagine this: strolling along the boulevards, Parisian sunlight glinting off the ornate buildings and street lamps, the air thick with the sweet scent of perfume and freshly baked pastries, a symphony of voices and chatter weaving a lively melody. My Parisian dress, a charming powder blue concoction with a touch of lace at the bodice, dances in the gentle breeze, and my matching pink straw hat perched proudly upon my head. Every now and then, I spot a passing carriage with a well-dressed lady, her ensemble adorned with delicate flowers. Such sophistication! Every woman is an artwork, an individual expression of style.
I simply can't resist dipping into a chic boutique on the Champs-Élysées, its windows displaying an array of fashion treasures: exquisite bonnets, vibrant silks, elegant gloves and, of course, the most charming little boots you've ever seen. Just looking at those dazzling displays is a delightful adventure in itself, and the sheer energy of it all simply intoxicates!
Tutu Talk - 1906
Today's ballerinas, in their majestic Opéra Garnier productions, wear stunning costumes, truly a testament to the creativity of the era. Let me tell you, the tutus are no longer the stiff, restrictive gowns of the Romantic Ballet era. We're talking flowing lines, graceful, layered skirts, and even a hint of romanticism (and by romantic, I mean frou-frou!)
Imagine delicate tulle, layers and layers of it, forming a gentle cloud around a dancer's graceful limbs, each movement accentuating the flowing fabrics, and transforming the ballerina into a captivating, ethereal figure. And, of course, let's not forget those delicate ribbons and glittering sequins! Such sheer elegance.
It's truly a sight to behold.
On the Scene - The Parisian Ballet
As I find my seat in the opulently decorated theatre, anticipation builds. Tonight's production is La Source, a ballet that had me in awe the last time I caught a performance back in the year 1888. I'm positively buzzing! It's full of dramatic action, romantic intrigue and, of course, exquisitely designed costumes and tutus that would make any ballerina swoon.
I have to tell you, every time I travel back in time, the excitement for a live ballet performance never fades. The energy is palpable, and it's simply magnetic. I'm transported into the story, the beautiful dancers take me on an emotional journey, the music swirls around me, a delicate echo of passion, and everything feels magical, captivating.
Sharing the Pink
Speaking of passion, I am passionate about getting everyone wearing tutus. We can create our own world, one filled with joyful pirouettes and laughter. If we dare to embrace the colour pink and the fabulous frothiness of a well-crafted tutu, who knows, perhaps even those stern Parisian gentlemen will start adding a little twirl to their steps!
Until next time, my fellow tutu-lovers, remember, you can follow my weekly Ballet Tutu History journey right here on www.pink-tutu.com, my virtual palace for all things ballet and tutus. I also post lots of pretty pictures on my Instagram - @pinktutulover.
Let's make the world a prettier place, one tutu at a time.
See you next #TutuTuesday, and stay twirly!
Emma
