Hello, my dearest Tutu-loving darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where we celebrate the fabulous history of the tutu, our go-to for all things twirly and delightful! I’m Emma, your ever-so-slightly-obsessed-with-tutus guide through time and, as always, I’m sporting my very best pink creation!
Today’s trip takes us back to a most intriguing era. The air crackles with anticipation and excitement. It’s May 26th, 1914, and I've just arrived in none other than Paris - the epicentre of all things fashion and chic! It’s a dream come true to be in the heart of the art nouveau movement, surrounded by beautifully crafted clothing and innovative ideas. You can just feel the buzz in the air!
I must confess, even the train journey was pure enchantment! I’ve been wanting to see a glimpse of the 1910s for a while now, and let me tell you, I was not disappointed. Just imagine, a charming train carriage with soft velvet seats, beautifully embroidered linen curtains and oh, the hatboxes! It's almost as if the train itself had stepped straight out of a romantic novel!
Stepping out of Gare du Nord in the early evening sun, I’m immediately enchanted by the elegant boulevards and buzzing cafés. The air is alive with the rhythmic click-clack of heeled shoes on the pavement, punctuated by the sweet scent of lavender and freshly baked pastries.
Today, however, I’m not here to merely enjoy the ambience (though, truly, I could easily lose myself in the Parisian charm!). I'm on a mission to delve deeper into the ballet scene! And where better to start than at the Opéra Garnier itself? I can already picture those glittering chandeliers and the air buzzing with excitement!
And as luck would have it, I hear whispers of a new ballet being presented on the 26th - a tale of the enchanting Scheherazade! Just my style!
Now, my dears, the tutus back in 1914 are just darling. Gone are the frills and fussy layers we associate with Romantic era ballets. These are much sleeker, clinging beautifully to the body and showcasing the dancers’ every graceful movement.
Oh, and let's not forget about the colours! I’m absolutely delighted by the rich jewel tones they are favouring here, from amethyst blues and deep emeralds to warm ruby reds - such elegance and drama! It’s a real visual feast. I simply can't wait to see these beauties in motion on stage.
As for my own wardrobe for tonight, you know it! I'm rocking a delicate pink tutu (I just can’t resist adding a bit of sweetness to the scene, darling!), paired with a flowing satin blouse, and a silk scarf, all in the softest pastel hues. Let’s hope I make a stylish impression at the Opera Garnier!
But enough of my outfit - back to our history lesson. The tutu of the early 1900s is a true reflection of its time - one of streamlined elegance, beautiful movement, and a celebration of the dancer’s art.
Don't worry, I’ll share all the wonderful details about my visit to the Scheherazade ballet, and maybe even try and snag a glimpse of the famous ballerina Anna Pavlova! She is considered the "Queen of Ballet" for a reason!
This is truly an unforgettable evening, one that’s already sparked some incredible ideas for my next tutu design. But for now, darling readers, I bid you adieu! Do join me again next #TutuTuesday when we travel to another time and unravel even more amazing facts about the fascinating history of our beloved tutu.
Don't forget to stay twirling,
Emma x
P.S. My travels aren’t just for fun! They help me learn and gather inspiration for my Tutu Emporium! Every performance I see helps to fund my adventures - the more I dance, the further I travel! So keep those ballet tickets flowing, my lovelies, and together we can keep the twirling spirit alive!
