Bonjour, chérie! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com for another #TutuTuesday! I’m your time-travelling fashionista Emma, back with another fascinating dip into the delightful history of the tutu. This week, we’re venturing back to the shimmering world of 1907, a time when the tutu was experiencing a glorious bloom of romanticism and graceful experimentation. Let's twirl back together!
Today, I find myself in the enchanting heart of Paris, the City of Lights. Paris in 1907 was a place buzzing with artistry, and as you know, darling, where there is art, there is fashion. And where there is fashion, there is the tutu. Today, the streets are abuzz with anticipation as dancers are preparing for the unveiling of a new ballet at the hallowed halls of the Paris Opera.
Imagine this scene, darling: elegant carriages rolling down boulevards adorned with sparkling Christmas lights. Ladies clad in extravagant furs, hats the size of bonnets, and skirts swirling around their ankles. And a whisper of excitement: "Have you heard about the new ballet?"
Well, this, my lovely, is where our story begins. It was the 17th of December, 1907, and the Paris Opera House was abuzz with anticipation. A new ballet, “The Fairy Doll,” by a rising star of ballet, Michail Fokine, was being premiered. And guess what? It wasn't just another graceful fairytale story; it was revolutionary. The ballet broke away from traditional rigid routines and embraced a more natural, flowing style, even allowing for improvisation during the performance! And just imagine, a dramatic and beautiful design that showcased an emphasis on dramatic pantomime – just so fabulous!
Now, I must admit, darling, my first thought wasn't "revolutionary"; it was "Where's the tutu?" Luckily, Fokine embraced the graceful movement and expressiveness of the tutu perfectly. The tutu, as always, proved the ultimate symbol of ballet. “The Fairy Doll” showcased stunning costuming, featuring a design called the 'tutu-de-pan.' These tutus had more structure, more dramatic length than the earlier versions. These tutus were long and luxurious, billowing around the dancers as they danced. This design captured the essence of the era's elegant, yet free, aesthetic. It perfectly mirrored the artistic revolution taking place within ballet, a desire to move beyond classical restrictions and embrace a more fluid, expressive style.
Now, let's be honest, darling, this was not only a groundbreaking ballet but also an enchanting journey of elegance. Imagine yourself seated amongst the elite in the Opera House, watching these talented dancers perform in the heart of the French capital. The atmosphere would have been electrifying, a symphony of colors, sounds, and emotions. Think of the grandeur, the lights, the costumes - oh, the costumes! I just wish I was there.
Speaking of grandeur, a big news piece this month has been about a glamorous fashion exhibition showcasing the latest Parisian trends! The exhibit was curated by the renowned fashion designer, Paul Poiret. His fashion showcased dramatic styles, flowing materials, and vibrant colours, much like the tutu-de-pan. He called this style “The Empire” line, after the feminine fashion of Napoleon Bonaparte's time.
Poiret is a true inspiration, darlings. His passion for the flowing grace of the gown inspired some spectacularly dramatic costumes. The emphasis on light materials that allow for dramatic movement mirrors the changing styles of ballet so perfectly, creating an artistic conversation between fashion and performance.
Now, don't worry, darling. As I always say, when it comes to tutus, there's something for everyone! No matter how we’ve grown, and no matter how far back we look, there will always be the graceful grace of a beautiful tutu.
As the month of December draws to a close, let’s take a moment to enjoy the shimmering magic of tutus and the captivating evolution of ballet. So go ahead, darlings, put on your most beautiful pink tutu, twirl with glee, and remember to celebrate the enchanting world of dance that continues to capture our imaginations and hearts. And as always, let’s dream big and keep that pink tutu shining brightly!
Until next Tuesday,
Emma x
