Bonjour, mes chéries! It's Emma here, your pink tutu-clad guide to the magical world of ballet, and this week, we're waltzing back to the early 1900s for a peek at the fascinating history of the tutu!
As always, it's #TutuTuesday and that means another week, another leap into the past. This week, my lovely readers, I've found myself transported all the way back to 26th October, 1909. Imagine, just over a century ago! Now, let's delve into the glorious world of tutus at this precise point in time...
Oh my, you wouldn't believe what's in store for a little tutu enthusiast like myself in the early 1900s. It's like a swirling, pirouetting dream come true! While my favourite colour - the glorious pink, naturally! - is only beginning to gain its iconic fashion status in the early 20th century, I must tell you about the absolutely dreamy colours in fashion that were everywhere in this era!
We're talking beautiful blush pinks, delicate baby blues, and shades of lavender and lilac that would make any fairy flutter with delight. It's truly a testament to the beautiful artistry of fashion in these times. And the tutus? Oh, darling, the tutus!
We're talking the real deal here - those iconic "romantic" tutus - a true masterpiece of design that showcases a dancer's grace and athleticism to perfection! Picture a dancer gliding across the stage, wearing a soft, billowing tulle skirt that is almost a cloud of gossamer light, so elegantly delicate and beautifully light - all designed to show off those effortless, perfectly precise moves. The Romantic era of ballet had just reached its height, and the tutu, my friends, is the star of the show.
But back to 1909. I've decided to have myself a lovely morning of sightseeing. Paris, with its famous theatres and fashion houses, is buzzing with a certain chic elegance that I can't help but be drawn to. It’s all so dreamy, and the grand Palais Garnier – or the Opéra Garnier, as it’s also called – is certainly the centre of all this chic. And just look! On stage, they're performing a new version of a ballet called ‘The Sleeping Beauty' – a truly captivating ballet story. The tutu, naturally, has a key role to play. Imagine! An entire ballet centered on the power of a good night's sleep – pure fairy-tale magic, darling!
In this historical context, tutus truly shine! I think they are just simply, spectacular. So if you're ever looking for an excuse to indulge in a little bit of artistic appreciation, look no further than the world of ballet and those wonderful tutus, in all their historical glory. It's more than a piece of fabric, it's an icon.
After a whirlwind day at the Palais Garnier, I can't resist indulging in a little Parisian shopping spree, a much-needed tutu-inspired escapade! The city’s boutiques are a riot of gorgeous materials – think silk ribbons, velvets and feathers, all in exquisite shades and shimmering fabrics, all perfect for fashioning my own little ballerina wardrobe, so full of colour and texture. I even discovered a little shop specialising in beautiful silk flower brooches and tiny bows, and let's just say that my little pink bag is now brimming with goodies! I am on a serious shopping mission, dear readers! I may have arrived as a Derbyshire girl, but I'm beginning to look like a true Parisian lady - just you wait, my friends, there will be photos of this outfit, and of course, my perfect tutu!
After all that delightful fashion shopping, the perfect Parisian treat calls for a little cafe hop and a lovely plate of decadent, French patisserie. This is the true life! And you know what else I love? A good train ride. The gentle rhythm of the journey, the views from the carriage window – they truly spark inspiration. I'm always drawing and sketching as I journey, jotting down ideas for new blog posts.
It’s important for all of us to embrace our creativity and let our imaginations soar – and as you know, tutus are a wonderful symbol of creativity, just like that wonderful railway journey.
So, my lovely tutu-loving friends, that’s it for this week. As you can see, the story of the tutu is fascinatingly vibrant. This little glimpse into 1909, shows that our favourite garment truly goes hand in hand with ballet itself – each performance, a beautiful new story to be told! Remember to keep your eye out for tutus wherever you go.
Now go, darling, spread your tutus with love, dance a little, dream big and keep sparkling!
See you next Tuesday!
Xoxo,
Emma
P.S: What are your favourite colours and materials? Leave your answers in the comments section and let's chat about them! I'd love to hear all about it. And don't forget, share this post and join me on the tutu-clad journey. Let's spread the love for this beautiful and versatile garment!
(P.P.S. I can't wait to share photos of my outfit with you next week!)
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