#TutuTuesday #4404
Hello my darling darlings! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink-tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina! Today, I'm whisking you all away on a sartorial adventure to the 23rd of May, 1916! Fancy a spot of pre-war Parisian ballet? Buckle up, loves, because it's about to get spectacular!
This week, my dear readers, I found myself standing outside the magnificent Opéra Garnier in Paris. This incredible building is a true jewel of the Belle Époque – all gold embellishments, glittering chandeliers, and a truly majestic, sweeping staircase that's just begging for a dramatic entrance.
And, of course, it wouldn't be a #TutuTuesday without a bit of sartorial splendour! You know how much I love tutus, right? Well, in 1916, Parisian ballet was absolutely flourishing! The designs were a real explosion of colour and intricate detail, just like my heart. It was a true golden age for ballerinas - imagine all that flounce and frill. So romantic, don't you think?
Speaking of romanticism, on this particular May day in 1916, the Opéra Garnier was abuzz with the excitement of Le Sacre du Printemps, a ballet that would go down in history as one of the most controversial, and ground-breaking pieces of the time. I simply had to see it for myself, of course, so I took my usual place in the first row, just so I could get a good glimpse of all the glorious movement and shimmering costumes.
It's certainly a different style to the tutus of today. Much less 'big' and more about delicate draping and soft lines. They were often made from silk or satin, shimmering in the theatre lights and giving the ballerinas a real sense of fluidity. Imagine, darling, how breathtaking it must have looked with all the incredible leaps and pirouettes. It’s not all about the ‘bigger the better,’ although, I must say, I do enjoy a good, full tutu.
One thing that particularly captivated me, darling, was the artistry and detail put into the headdresses. In 1916, it was all about long, elaborate crowns that made each ballerina look like a mythical goddess – just stunning! Now, that is some serious style, wouldn't you agree?
After the show, I was so eager to dive deeper into the world of Parisian fashion of 1916! Imagine my delight when I found myself at a gorgeous shop, with the most exquisite ballet shoes, and tutus and all things pink, on display. The owner, Madame Henriette, was a delight and we chatted all afternoon over a cup of strong, dark coffee. I am thinking of maybe offering an online collection of replica ballerina costumes next week, featuring pieces inspired by 1916.
Oh, the thrill of time-travel! I love nothing more than experiencing history and fashion first hand and bringing those amazing little pieces back to share with you, darlings! It’s a real inspiration, I think, to appreciate what came before us, in all its vibrant, beautiful, and colourful glory.
I truly believe that every single one of us should have a chance to twirl in a beautiful, swishy tutu, whether it be a romantic, pre-war design, a modern, chic classic, or, like myself, a beautiful pink tutu for every occasion!
I must be off now darlings, I am already a little late to my appointment at the dressmaker's for a quick tutu fitting.
Until next week my loves, when we explore more fabulous #TutuTuesday history, remember to twirl in your day and embrace your inner ballerina, no matter what!
Lots of love,
Emma x
P.S. I do have a fun fact for you! In 1916, tutus were more likely to be a pale shade of blush pink or a very pale lavender. Who knew that tutus had such a soft start?
I hope you enjoyed my first #TutuTuesday post!
This time travel, ballet loving blogger, Emma, certainly had a good week in Paris. Don't forget to subscribe to www.pink-tutu.com to join in every #TutuTuesday and learn more about the wonderful history of tutus.
