Hello darlings! Welcome back to another edition of your favourite weekly blog, Pink Tutu. I'm your host, Emma, your fellow ballet-obsessed time traveller, fresh from a trip to…drum roll please…Paris, 1918! Now, I know what you're thinking: *Paris in 1918? That’s wartime, isn’t it? * And yes, it was a challenging time for everyone, but you know what they say, "the show must go on!" And in Paris, the world of ballet certainly did.
This week, let's take a twirl back in time and talk tutus! Specifically, tutus from that era. Oh my, you wouldn’t believe how amazing it was! Forget the big, fluffy skirts of the romantic era, these ladies were all about a more sleek, streamlined silhouette, like a dancer emerging from the embrace of a graceful willow tree. Think long, clinging lines, delicate, airy fabrics - a touch of modernism mixed with a dash of wartime restraint (and not a ruffle in sight!). They really knew how to keep things elegant, even during challenging times! It's no wonder, though - French fashion, even back then, was renowned for its sophistication.
Now, picture this: The Palais Garnier, with its majestic beauty and golden splendour, a symphony of swirling tutus taking to the stage in the most breathtaking ballets imaginable. I saw a production of "Giselle" with the most ethereal tutus you could imagine! The dancers, all delicate grace and elegance, floated across the stage with such effortless skill – the perfect pairing of femininity and movement!
But let's get practical for a moment. How did I get there, you ask? Well, my dear reader, as a time-traveling ballerina, my funding for this extraordinary adventure came from none other than performing myself! I found the most incredible stage in the heart of Paris - a small, intimate theatre. Not as grand as the Palais Garnier, but its charm and energy were undeniable! The audience loved my dance, particularly a delicate waltz I had crafted for the occasion - a lovely mixture of old-fashioned elegance and a little bit of "tutu-licious" fun.
Of course, I couldn’t travel all that way without exploring the shops and soaking up the Parisian charm, right? Imagine strolling along the cobbled streets of Paris in the middle of wartime, a bit surreal, wouldn’t you say? But still, those fabrics, those designs, the entire atmosphere of fashion was exhilarating!
The fabric stores held an absolute wonderland of materials: silk, chiffon, tulle, delicate lace... oh, it was just dreamy! The shops brimmed with luxurious textures, beautiful colors and a kind of Parisian finesse I can only describe as a breath of fresh air. There was even a shop tucked away in a tiny street selling old pointe shoes and vintage ballet accessories. Imagine my delight! It was like stepping into a ballerina's dream. It was a true treat to see how fashion evolved between 1918 and now, and it certainly left me wanting to take some of that chic, wartime-inspired flair back home with me.
Before you think this is all about fancy dress-ups, let me tell you that ballet, especially during those times, was considered an important part of culture. It wasn’t just about fashion; it was about art, storytelling, and expressing emotions through movement. Even amidst the struggles of war, people yearned for beauty, for escape.
Speaking of 1918, what happened on 17th September? * A most important date, I can tell you! A mere 75 years before my birth, you know. * On this date, exactly 105 years ago today, "The Spirit of St. Louis" by Edward B. Marsh was published! It's a moving poem about the bravery of American soldiers in World War I, their courage, and their unwavering dedication to liberty. What an inspirational piece!
And there you have it, my dears. Another trip down the timeline with a sprinkling of history, a dollop of fashion, and, of course, a large helping of tutu. As always, thank you for joining me. Remember to share your favourite tutu stories and #TutuTuesday pics! And don't forget, a little sprinkle of pink magic is all it takes to make your day a little brighter!
Until next week, stay fabulous and keep twirling!
Lots of love,
Emma
