Hello my darling tutu enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome back to Tutu Tuesday, where we dive into the wonderfully whimsical world of ballet tutus!
This week, my time machine has brought me to the vibrant, fashionable city of Paris in the year 1917! Oh, what a glorious time to be alive! We're in the heart of the Belle Époque, an era bursting with artistic creativity and an insatiable love for beauty. You can practically smell the perfume in the air and feel the swish of silk gowns as elegant ladies glide through the streets. And what do I see everywhere? Tutues! Tutues everywhere!
1917: A Year of Ballet Bliss
1917 is an exciting time for ballet in France. You can feel the thrill in the air as new and groundbreaking performances by renowned dancers like Vaslav Nijinsky are sweeping across the stage. He's a true legend – an artist with a mesmerizing stage presence, revolutionising classical ballet with his bold, avant-garde choreography. Imagine my joy at seeing Nijinsky's "Le Sacre du Printemps" – the music is so innovative, so powerful, so exciting! I nearly fainted when I saw him onstage in that exquisite, streamlined, black costume! And I could go on and on about the breathtaking beauty of the Ballet Russe. The music, the dancing, the costumes - it all comes together in an explosion of artistic brilliance. I can practically see it all unfolding in my mind's eye, with a little twirl and a leap of my own, of course.
The Evolution of the Tutu: From Pomp to Poetry
The tutus themselves have taken an interesting turn! Think elegant, romantic tutus of the early 1900s. Those exquisite multi-layered, cascading tiers of tulle are starting to shift to more form-fitting silhouettes! Think soft, swirling shapes that dance beautifully across the stage, emphasising the grace of the dancers. They’re making more use of the gorgeous fabrics of the time – velvets, silks, lace! Just imagine a dazzling ballerina gliding across the stage in a shimmering pink tulle tutu, with soft velvet accents and perhaps a tiny touch of lace at the neckline!
Parisian Fashion: My Time Travelling Wardrobe Inspiration
Ah, Paris, city of dreams! Where would I be without my afternoon browsing the chic boutiques? Oh my goodness! From hats with delicate plumes and bows, to elaborate gowns adorned with stunning beadwork, the Parisian style is all about sophisticated elegance! The women have an inherent sense of effortless fashion. I adore the fashion for a full, dramatic skirt! I mean, where better to pair a voluminous, statement skirt than with a lovely little pink tutu, right?
I'm so fortunate that the gorgeous costumes in Paris’s theatre shows offer me a delightful dose of wardrobe inspiration. Who doesn't love a bit of inspiration to recreate the fabulous era through your own outfit choices! I simply must bring this Parisian magic back home with me. It'll be a delightful addition to my pink tutu wardrobe, as my Derbyshire friends and I recreate a little bit of Parisian chic in the English countryside.
A Journey of Fashion and Inspiration
Now, the journey from Paris back to Derbyshire is long. But let me tell you, sitting in a first class compartment, gazing at the countryside as I travel on the express train to the Channel port is always a delightful experience. There's just something about a comfortable, luxurious setting and an adventure just beginning – it’s like a scene from my favourite novel! Oh, and let's not forget the delightful delights offered in the onboard carriage – fresh scones with clotted cream, a lovely cup of tea!
Now that I’m back home in Derbyshire, I simply must get to work with my knitting needles. These incredible ballet performances, especially “Le Sacre du Printemps” by Nijinsky, have fuelled a desire to design a new style of tutu – one that reflects the dynamism and drama of this new ballet choreography! The new tutus need to be streamlined yet feminine. They’ll be perfect for the bold ballerina with a penchant for the theatric. I can’t wait to wear this new creation! It’ll look fabulous paired with my Parisian-inspired, voluminous skirt!
Remember, darlings, every single tutu tells a story. Embrace the magic and wonder of dance – even if you can’t physically step on the stage – by wearing your own tutu. After all, ballet is about expressing yourself, about feeling free and graceful!
Keep on twirling, dear friends, and let’s make this week full of fabulous tutues! Until next Tuesday, stay sweet and chic! 💖🩰
