Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back again with another instalment of #TutuTuesday! This week, I've taken a trip back to November 14th, 1911 - and oh, what a year this is turning out to be!
Before we get to the tutus, let me tell you about my grand adventure to Paris! Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I travelled by train, and I tell you what, even the steam train can't dampen the excitement for a ballet fanatic like me. Especially not when I'm on my way to the Grand Opéra de Paris for the first time!
The Palais Garnier, oh, my word, it's majestic! I was in awe of the opulent interiors, all velvet curtains and glittering chandeliers, the smell of theatre makeup and the anticipation hanging in the air, as thrilling as the grand finale of a Tchaikovsky ballet. I saw the stunning "Giselle", a classic with an almost haunting beauty, and my heart was filled with the passion of the dancers!
But you want to know about tutus, right? Let's talk tutus! In 1911, we're firmly in the Romantic period, and tutu fashion is going through quite a change. Gone are the long, stiff Romantic tutus with their layered frills! The "tutu à la grecque", with its fluid, drapery-like layers, is in, creating a much softer, graceful silhouette. These beauties were just as stunning on stage as they are today!
This is the year, my dears, when Anna Pavlova began her world tour, and oh, the influence she has on the tutu world! The ballerina's effortless grace and elegance pushed for more simple, lighter tutus, revealing the dancers' legs in an incredibly captivating way. This shift away from elaborate embellishments towards a cleaner, more streamlined look has revolutionised tutu design and is definitely reflected in what we wear on stage today!
Back in my time, I've been busy crafting my own new collection of pink tutus, inspired by my time-traveling adventures! (I must say, getting fabrics delivered through time is not the easiest of feats!) This season, it's all about soft, flowing textures with hints of intricate embroidery - just a touch of Victorian flair mixed with the sleek grace of the early 20th century. Who knew that a little trip to Paris could inspire so much creativity?!
Speaking of Paris, on November 14th, 1911, it was also the opening day of the Salon d'Automne, showcasing all the latest trends in art, fashion, and everything in between! Now, wouldn't it be a dream to attend a salon like that with my own collection of tutus? Maybe one day, my darlings, maybe one day…
And with that, my darlings, I bid you adieu! Remember to always embrace the pink, embrace the tutus, and always, always, remember that the magic of ballet can take you anywhere, even through time. Keep a look out for next week’s #TutuTuesday post on www.pink-tutu.com! It’s sure to be another dazzling journey through ballet history.
Until then,
Emma x
