Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite tutu-clad time traveller Emma, back with another delightful journey through the fascinating world of ballet history. Today, we're hopping on the train (don't worry, I packed my matching pink travel bag - and of course, my favourite pink tulle tutu!) and setting our time machine to 28th September, 1915.
Ooh la la, what a day it was to be a ballet enthusiast in the grand old city of Paris! Now, you all know how much I love tutus, right? It’s practically my middle name! So let’s start by talking about those gorgeous tulle masterpieces. Remember, ladies, this is still quite early in the tutu’s grand journey, a bit before it truly burst onto the ballet scene in all its swirling glory.
Our lovely ballerinas in 1915 were dancing in a variety of delightful styles! Some wore the romantically floaty Romantic tutu, its layers of tulle floating like gossamer clouds. Others embraced the 'classical' or 'traditional' tutu, featuring a bodice, or even a charming little fitted basque, and a shorter skirt of stiff, horizontal layers - perfectly sculpted for showcasing intricate footwork. Oh, I wouldn’t mind giving that a twirl or two!
But it was in the Opéra Garnier on this very day, ladies, where the world of ballet was positively electrifying with a special treat for the audience: a performance of "Giselle", one of the grand ballets of the day! It’s a romantic ballet, all swirling and delicate movements, perfect for highlighting the artistry and skill of the ballerinas! This must have been a real delight for Parisian ballet lovers, I can just imagine the flutter of fans, the hushed awe, and the storm of applause that must have followed.
And talking of swirling, there was something truly magical about Paris in 1915. The city was bursting with life and colour. Fashion, as always, was a thrilling spectacle, and women's fashions were certainly trending towards flowing silhouettes and romantic details.
Can you imagine me in 1915, twirling through the elegant streets, in my perfect pink tutu, a bright spot against the monochrome backdrop of the era? A touch of pink, even in the form of a delightful ribbon in your hair, or perhaps a feather on your hat, could inject just the right amount of joy into an ensemble. And believe me, Parisian ladies understood this.
As a quick fashion tip from a girl who travels through time for a love of dance and the sheer joy of the perfect pink tutu: even in times that were, shall we say, less inclined to colour, don't be afraid to inject your own flair and style! Remember, it's not about fitting in, it's about embracing your own unique individuality and flair!
However, like most beautiful things, this era of breathtaking dance had a touch of sadness too. The year was 1915, the very middle of World War One, a conflict that cast a shadow over every corner of life.
And although life wasn't easy, one thing remains a constant throughout time, no matter what difficulties we might face: the human spirit. This includes the magic and artistry of ballet. It’s the grace, the beauty, the passion for dance - it's a universal language, something that can lift the heart and fill us with joy.
Remember this, ladies, whenever the world throws you a curveball, grab your tutu and find a moment to dance. Life is short, embrace every opportunity to twirl!
Stay twirling and remember, ladies, even amidst the grayest of days, we can always add a splash of pink!
See you next Tuesday, my dear ballerinas, when we’ll journey back in time again for another delightful adventure.
Until then, stay sparkling!
Emma xx
PS. Do check out our www.pink-tutu.com online store, ladies. This week, I'm sharing a limited edition selection of my absolute favourite 1915-inspired tutu designs - imagine those romantic swirling tulles and sparkling sequins... We'll even have a special offer for those who mention this #TutuTuesday blog post! Don’t miss out on this chance to grab a touch of 1915 elegance for your own wardrobe!
PPS I'll be sharing pictures from my trip in 1915 in the next few days. Don't miss them!
Stay safe and glamorous, lovelies!
