#TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History, 16th July, 1918
Bonjour, my darling dance enthusiasts!
It's Emma here, your time-travelling, pink tutu-clad guide to the fabulous world of ballet! This week, we're waltzing back to July 16th, 1918, and oh my, what a fascinating journey we're about to take! Remember to check out my website www.pink-tutu.com, as always, and feel free to leave a comment below!
This is #TutuTuesday blog post number 4,516, and trust me, every single post is a love letter to the tutu! This magnificent garment is more than just a costume, itâs an explosion of tulle, an ode to grace, a whisper of a fairy tale! Just looking at one makes me want to twirl.
Today, we're stepping into the heart of Parisian ballet. The war is raging, but in the grand halls of the Opéra Garnier, the beauty of dance endures. Even in these trying times, the spirit of creativity and beauty shines brightly through. And I am right there with the Parisian women, mesmerised by the artistry of it all!
Remember, 1918 - this is the time of the exquisite ballerina, the prima ballerina assoluta! Think Anna Pavlova, a goddess of dance who embodies grace, lightness, and exquisite artistry! She has captivated the world, and it's only right that our spotlight shines on her, a shining example of tutu perfection!
Tutu Style in the roaring twenties
Now, I love seeing the delicate tulle and delicate silk come together to form such magnificent creations, but these Parisian ballerinas are not afraid to put a contemporary twist on their dance costumes! The tutus in this era have a distinct silhouette, embracing an innovative design language.
We see shorter, more fluid lines in their designs - the tutu souple, as the French would say - perfect for displaying athleticism and breathtaking leaps! And the colours? Absolutely heavenly! From pale rose to a deep sapphire blue, with pops of gold for good measure, these costumes are truly magnificent works of art.
16th July 1918: A Date to Remember
As you read this, I am likely swirling around the opulent opéra house, soaking in the grandeur of the ballet's rich history! You can bet I'll be in a pretty pink tutu! The whole world's my dance floor, darlings! Today is the 16th July 1918. The day is ripe for romanticism and elegance - an evening to remember! The Opéra Garnier is holding a benefit for the war effort. A beautiful act of charity, bringing dance and compassion together.
On this particular evening, the worldâs eyes are on a masterpiece called âLe Lac des cygnes.â The audience will be enthralled by the sheer elegance of it all. Imagine a swanâs grace reflected in the ballerina's steps! Such delicate movements, such pure beauty!
Now, there is something wonderfully magical about stepping back in time to such an incredible performance. To see how ballet captured hearts during this particular era. It is like dancing with history, a delicate and intricate waltz. And, of course, it goes without saying, that the iconic Swan Lake would have a breathtaking tutu! Think fluffy layers of tulle that almost float on air, the perfect ballerina dream!
Shopping for a Parisian Experience
After such a splendid ballet, my shopping bag won't be left empty! This city is a paradise for fashion! From the Rue de la Paix, a glamorous promenade adorned with haute couture houses, to the charming shops on the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, I will be exploring and searching for the perfect Parisian style pieces!
If you haven't yet been to the department stores of Paris, prepare to be wowed! The elegant fabrics, the magnificent display of hats, gloves, and beautiful dresses, the air is charged with the excitement of dressing up! A fashionistaâs paradise, darling! My luggage is sure to be bursting with treasures by the time I head back to the time portal!
Taking Ballet to the World!
I just know the tutus I'll discover on this trip are going to inspire my next pink tutu outfit! Every day, my passion for ballet grows. The energy I find in these grand ballrooms is unlike anything else in the world! Every week, I step into the magic of different eras, experiencing the evolution of ballet in every way.
And what makes it even more exciting? Sharing it all with you! That's my dream, dear friends! I believe everyone should experience the joy of wearing a pink tutu! From London to Paris, New York to Sydney - every corner of the globe!
So what are you waiting for? Get ready to twirl, darlings, and let's bring some tutus to the world!
Until next week, dance on!
Emma xx
P.S. Be sure to follow me on social media, @PinkTutuTravels, and share your own #TutuTuesday adventures! I canât wait to see all of you lovely ladies in pink tutus, whether youâre out and about or even at your desk! I just know you can rock that tulle!