Hello darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome back to #TutuTuesday on www.pink-tutu.com! Today marks the momentous occasion of post number 4303, and we're swirling back to a particularly exciting moment in ballet history - June 16th, 1914!
Now, you might be thinking, "Emma, how could a day in 1914 be particularly exciting?" Well, darling, let's just say that this day was a whirlwind of romance, fashion, and of course, tutus!
Imagine a bustling Paris, the City of Lights. The streets are alive with laughter, the air thick with the scent of freshly baked croissants and the murmur of conversation. A beautiful summer afternoon bathed in the warm glow of the sun - the perfect day for a delightful ballet performance!
The most celebrated ballerinas in the world are all here, their movements as light and graceful as the tulle of their sparkling, elegant tutus (a definite highlight of the Fashion scene, which, let's face it, always has room for more sparkle!). But today is special because the most sought-after premiere of the year is about to unfold: "La Esmeralda," the grand ballet from the genius of Cesare Pugni. The choreography, an artistic tapestry of emotions, depicts the tale of a captivating gypsy dancer and her perilous journey through love, jealousy, and ultimate despair.
Just as I settled into my theatre seat with my program clutched firmly in hand, the orchestra began playing the sweeping music that underscored the romance of "La Esmeralda," and then - a collective hush fell over the theatre as the ballerina portraying Esmeralda made her entrance! It was truly magical! Her delicate steps, her stunning tutu, her expressive movements painted a masterpiece on the stage, making you forget you were watching a show, and transported you to another time, another world entirely.
And let's not forget the men! Dressed in beautifully fitted costumes - sharp, bold and so stylish - their dance steps brought an extra layer of excitement and elegance to the performance. It was quite charming, and I must confess that the beautiful* ballerina costumes*, along with their effortless poise, inspired me.
Tutus! Their elegance, their flow, the way they moved like a whirlwind with every graceful spin! Let's not forget that a ballet performance is just as much a visual feast as an auditory one - and what better way to catch the eye than with a beautiful tutu! In 1914, the tutus were mostly constructed with delicate layers of tulle, giving a softer, romantic feel, with a hint of playful abandon, but they were starting to move towards more intricate designs and bold details – perfect for drawing in a wider audience!
You know me, I adore seeing all those* fabulous ballerinas swirling in their gorgeous pink tutus*. They were almost like feathered butterflies taking flight! The tutus truly came to life, and if I was only allowed to use one word to describe how I felt seeing them...it would be magical!
And this, darlings, brings us to the true essence of #TutuTuesday. A reminder of the power and elegance of these beautiful garments! Why wear ordinary clothes when you can embrace the joy of tutus? I've been traveling through time and it's fascinating to see how tutus have evolved! Every century has its own way of interpreting this garment, and 1914 was no exception. And what better way to embrace a love for the ballet and tutus than by having your very own tutu collection?
Speaking of tutus, I had a wonderful time shopping after the show! Paris truly does boast some marvelous boutiques! It was quite a lovely treat to visit some charming stores with unique selections of lace, tulle and feathers. Let me tell you, picking up a beautiful tutu or two is definitely something you don't want to miss!
I have a favourite shopping district, known as Les Halles, right near the theatre where we saw "La Esmeralda" tonight. They say there are shops on each and every cobblestone street - almost too much choice for one time traveller! The selection there is nothing short of extraordinary. The designs! Oh, my darlings, just picture this: rows of gorgeous gowns, elaborate hats, shoes with heels that can put a stiletto to shame, and, of course, stunning tutus that dance in the air, just begging to be picked up. It was a pure fashion frenzy! I must say that Paris has a certain je ne sais quoi - a romanticism that blends with style and flair!
But back to 1914! As much as I love going to fashion shows and seeing tutus come alive on stage, there's no experience quite like hopping on a train to a new city and exploring all the hidden wonders that it has to offer! Just imagine stepping aboard the sleek train, watching the passing landscape rush by and the air filled with the sounds of happy travellers! Then, of course, the anticipation of arriving at a new city!
That's why I am heading back to Derbyshire, England next, to catch a performance of "Swan Lake" (don't even get me started on that magical white tutu!) - so join me next #TutuTuesday for all the insights on the ballet scene and stunning fashion from that era.
I truly hope this #TutuTuesday inspires you to try out a pink tutu, embrace your inner ballerina and live life with a playful flair, much like a whimsical tutu twirling in the air!
Until then, darling, stay sparkly!
Emma
P.S.: Did you know that on June 16th, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie, were assassinated in Sarajevo? While a tragic event, it unfortunately took center stage in news reports around the world. A grim reminder of how fleeting beauty and romance can be in a world marked by strife. But as we look to the future, we can choose to celebrate life's joyous moments - like the magical power of ballet and the sheer elegance of tutus! It’s time to keep spreading that #TutuTuesday sparkle, darlings! 💖
