Hello, darlings! Emma here, your very own Pink Tutu-clad time-travelling fashionista, back with another fabulous foray into the history of tutus! Today, my journey takes us to August 6th, 1918, right in the middle of the Great War. It’s a strange time, a poignant time, and yet, believe it or not, ballet is still swirling on, spreading its magic and bringing a touch of elegance to the world!
From the Train to the Theatre!
Just hopped off the Orient Express in the glorious City of Lights - Paris! It's a dream, the atmosphere fizzing with energy, and of course, the ballet scene is absolutely thriving. The war may have disrupted many things, but it can't touch the allure of a good pointe shoe and a perfect pirouette! This city just breathes romance and artistry - perfect for my love of the finer things in life.
Now, for all you budding ballerinas out there (and gents, I’m sure your significant other will adore this), we're not exactly in the era of the tutus we know today. In fact, 1918 was a bit of a transition phase!
Whimsical Whirlwinds - A Century of Tutu Styles!
Let's rewind to the 1880s. Imagine wispy, lightweight, diaphanous tutus - they were practically cobwebby, and perfect for showing off all the technicality of the dancers. We're talking a light and ethereal style, which let them fly through the air! But then, enter the 'Romantic tutu' - long, flowing, tulle and lace – just imagine it, swirling through the stage in a cloud of beautiful fabric. Picture all that graceful beauty, and just remember it was groundbreaking back in the day. It took some time to become the style everyone fell in love with.
But by 1918, a change is afoot! Ballet is getting more and more technical, faster, stronger, and that change needed to be reflected in the costume! The tutu was going through an evolution, transforming from the flowing skirts of the 19th century to shorter, more structured ones! I adore this change. The shortness allows more movement, a focus on the ballerina's legs, and let's be honest - more twirling, which, of course, makes the show even more captivating!
Now, imagine a Parisian evening – I just spent a wonderful time at the Opéra Garnier (the iconic Palais Garnier that inspires dreams). I’ve been watching an incredible show by the Ballet de l'Opéra National de Paris. There is so much artistry! But what really struck me, was the use of contrasting styles. Short, crisp, elegant tutus and graceful, flowing designs - it all combines for something so stunningly visual! This interplay of long and short really adds an element of 'Wow!'"
What's a Girl to Wear? The Dress and the Tutu!
After my visit to the opera house, it's only natural to head straight for some fashion indulgence! I found the most fabulous vintage clothing store in the chic Marais district, full of elegant 1910s dresses - what a treasure trove! But before I even thought of buying an outfit for myself, I had to know what was fashionable!
For everyday wear in 1918, it’s all about loose-fitting skirts and blouses. Imagine comfortable yet chic styles! They emphasize femininity without being too restrictive. These days, they call this style “New Look.” It’s the look of emancipation, of a modern woman, all about effortless elegance and feminine charm. The dresses often had intricate lace, flowing sleeves, and pretty little details, making them all the more enchanting.
But when the time for an evening out came around, *Parisian women loved to glam things up in full-length gowns with long trains. * Those fabrics were dreamy – silk, satin, and lace were definitely the fabric of choice. The evening gowns were absolutely breathtaking! Think rich colours, adorned with delicate beading and dazzling sequins! They exude glamour and romance and really reflect the Parisian spirit.
Oh, but my darling fashionistas, I’m telling you the most thrilling part: * *the tutu had also entered the realm of everyday wear! Imagine little girls skipping around the city in miniature ballerina costumes, spreading joy with every turn. Adorable, don't you think? Now, there's a thought!
A Little Fashion Advice For You - It's All About Balance
And so, the dance world continues to mesmerize the world! Ballet may not be in the heart of a warzone right now, but it certainly inspires beauty and dreams – a precious and magical element in an uncertain time. If you're in any doubt of what to wear, remember the principle of balance, darling!
A loose-fitting blouse and a flowing skirt provide a sense of freedom, while a chic, short-tutu-inspired design with flowing silk ribbons adds a touch of ballet drama. Remember the magic of a bit of movement! It all adds to a beautiful, delicate, yet feminine silhouette, bringing that ballet vibe to your daily life. I just know you'll look utterly fabulous!
Until next Tuesday, darlings! Be sure to follow me at www.pink-tutu.com where I'm waiting for you to discover more history, more style, and a lot of pink tulle fun! Remember - you are the stars of your own personal tutu-filled fairytale, ready to twirl into the world!
