Hello, darlings! It's Emma, your resident tutu enthusiast, back for another #TutuTuesday! This week we're taking a trip back in time, specifically to the 18th of June, 1918. Now, 1918 was a tumultuous time for the world, with the First World War raging across Europe. However, here in Paris, fashion, and of course, ballet, still found a way to thrive.
Let me tell you, travelling through time in a pink tutu does turn some heads! The good old days of "first-class carriages only" are long gone (though I must say the comfort was rather grand, don't you think?), and travelling through time by train, though a little less glamorous, is definitely the fastest way to go. It helps that I fund my travels by dancing – nothing quite so fulfilling as being able to afford a first-class ticket on my own hard-earned performance fees!
Anyways, 1918! Can you believe that we were less than a year away from the iconic "Ballets Russes" arriving in London? The company's debut in the capital would set a whole new fashion movement in motion.
Now, on the 18th of June 1918, a few fascinating things were happening in the world of ballet. Firstly, Sergei Diaghilev, the mastermind behind the Ballets Russes, was hard at work creating the costumes and sets for his next production, "Le Sacre du Printemps," a daring work that shocked and startled audiences even to this day. It was all so very experimental!
In America, however, there was a sense of quiet, as ballet was still a relatively unknown art form across the pond. A few schools were springing up in the bigger cities, though – think New York, Boston, even Chicago – so the scene was quietly developing. The American Ballet Theatre was actually just a few years away, so 1918 was a time of simmering excitement for ballet in the US.
But here in Paris, we were right in the heart of it all! On June 18th, 1918, the French Ballet Company, famed for its grace and poise, was putting on a stunning performance of “Giselle” at the Palais Garnier. I couldn't have missed that, no matter what, and my darling, let me tell you, a glimpse at the elegant, classical lines of the Parisian dancers, with their airy tulle tutus billowing around them, made it all worth the journey!
I have to confess, as an aspiring ballerina with an obsession for all things tutu, seeing the Parisian ballerina's attire sent me into a fashion frenzy. The sheer fabric! The careful construction! Even the simple, sleek line of their bodices spoke of sophisticated femininity. They knew what they were doing with those tulle tutus, making them feel weightless, almost otherworldly. I was already sketching my own designs for the next performance – perhaps some beautiful silk ribbons for the bodice?
Though tutus weren't yet worn for every ballet performance in 1918 – think about it, even for Swan Lake, Odette was only a swan in the second act! – I couldn't help but think, "The future is so tutu-ful, darling!". The evolution of the tutu was something to marvel at: from the dainty classical ones with just a whisper of tulle, to the extravagant tutus we see today. The story of the tutu is all about evolution, change, and of course, absolute feminine elegance.
Fashion Inspiration for the Modern Ballerina
Now, let's talk fashion. Inspired by my time travelling through 1918 Paris, I just had to share some tips for modern day ballerinas wanting a touch of the timeless glamour:
- Tulle! Yes, we're obsessed with the beautiful material here at pink-tutu.com, and so were they in 1918. Think light, billowing layers, the more layers the better (that's a golden rule!), and soft pastels to truly bring the classic feel.
- Ribbons. Add a splash of drama to any ballet outfit – whether for the barre or a special performance – with ribbons! Silk or satin ribbons in vibrant colours are an elegant touch for both the bodice and the tutu.
- Embrace the Classic Elegance: Ballet isn't just about performance, darling! It's a way of life. That 1918 Parisian glamour is an inspiration for us all. Whether it's rocking a sleek black skirt with a stylish white blouse or throwing on a luxurious velvet dress, let your own sense of ballet elegance shine through!
Pink Tutus for Everyone
Speaking of inspiration, let's spread some tutu-filled cheer, my dear readers. This week I challenge you all to go a little extra with your outfits! Whether it's adding a vibrant ribbon to your everyday ensemble, donning a chic tutu over your trousers, or even just finding a playful pink accessory for a little extra sass, we want to see the world embracing a touch of pink and a sprinkle of tutu magic!
Don't forget to post your photos and stories on social media with the hashtag #TutuTuesday. And of course, don't forget to check back in next week for another exciting dive into ballet history. See you soon!
Until next time, darlings, stay pink, stay sparkly, and always embrace the joy of a beautiful ballet tutu!
Yours,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
