Oh my darlings! What a whirlwind of a week it’s been! I'm finally catching my breath back in my little London flat after a fabulous trip to the Parisian salons.
But first, tea! I just had to get my hands on a spot of Earl Grey before I even thought about writing. Goodness, this week's #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History is going to be a good one. Are you sitting comfortably?
Right, here’s the lowdown:
The year is 1910 and we’re right smack bang in the heart of Paris, where the fashion scene is bubbling like a freshly brewed cup of tea! The grand old opera houses, the swish balls – you name it – tutus are the flavour of the month!
*But hang on, let’s rewind a bit… *
Back in the day (I’m talking Victorian times, my dears), those graceful tulle skirts were strictly reserved for the ballet. You’d never catch a society lady swirling around a drawing room in one! Why? Because ballet was considered a bit risque in those days, and wearing anything even remotely like a tutu outside the theatre could make you seem…well, not very proper, to put it politely!
Imagine – if your mother had seen you sporting a fluffy, multi-layered tutu outside the theatre…well, let’s just say she might have given you a good scolding!
But time marched on, my loves, and fashion got bolder. Slowly but surely, that fabulous fluffy fabric started creeping into society's good books. It all started with the dancers. Picture it: these incredible, statuesque ballerinas gliding across the stage in their majestic tutus, a sight of utter beauty. The artists and designers, those wonderfully inspired folks, got hooked on the ethereal charm and airy elegance of it all.
And suddenly – BAM! – The tutu made its official debut into the fashion world. Talk about a graceful dance, eh? The movement of those layered tulle, with the shimmer of the fabrics – I tell you, it’s a sight to behold! It truly captured the essence of the era, don’t you think? It was all about the feminine elegance and delicate charm.
So, where am I going with this?
This magical 17th May, 1910, you could catch Miss Isadora Duncan herself, a groundbreaking dancer with such grace, dazzling Parisian audiences in a* tutu-inspired garment.* Imagine her swaying with absolute freedom – an absolute triumph in the realm of feminine liberation.
And wouldn't you know it, I'm also seeing the first sparklings of fashion designers in Paris taking those grand tutus and making them into exquisite ball gowns and glamorous evening dresses. This wasn’t a straightforward rip-off, my darlings. No, these designers used their ingenuity, taking inspiration from the ballet and weaving it into garments perfect for high-society affairs! They just couldn't resist those ethereal, billowing layers!
What else is happening on this fabulous date? Well, let’s just say the Parisian opera houses are brimming with activity. If you happen to be lucky enough to be there, make sure to grab a seat to see The Nutcracker, the beautiful dance that takes centre stage. Trust me, those magical costumes are sure to make your heart skip a beat. And while we're at it, don't miss out on a show at the Palais Garnier – the legendary theatre! Those are the shows you simply cannot miss if you find yourself in Paris at this time.
My journey through time is going to continue with another exciting adventure – but that’s a story for another time, my loves!
But let's leave you with a little challenge. I’d love to see your photos! What are you doing today for #TutuTuesday?
Post those pics and share the love of tutus.
As ever, until next week… Happy Dancing!
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
