Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, bringing you another installment of Ballet Tutu History on www.pink-tutu.com! This week, we're twirling back to the 6th of May, 1919, and boy oh boy, are you in for a treat!
Let's hop onto my favourite carriage – the train, of course – and journey to the very heart of tutu fashion, Paris!
It's hard to imagine a world without the glorious fluff and frills of the ballet tutu, but back in 1919, the world of dance was just starting to embrace the romantic, whimsical, and frankly fabulous tulle we know and adore today!
I arrived in Paris last night, feeling absolutely radiant in my most fabulous pink tutu (the colour does just scream "Parisian Chic", don't you think? 😜) The streets were buzzing with excitement; the war was finally over, and Paris was ready to celebrate with beautiful clothes, dancing, and music!
Now, as a ballerina who loves a good show, you know I made a beeline for the Opéra Garnier, a majestic palace of art that just begs to be twirled in! The ballet, "La Bohème", was stunning, a love story for the ages told through music and movement.
But what was really catching my eye were the costumes! It was a stark contrast to the extravagant, romantic tutus that adorned ballerinas in years to come. Think short, lightweight skirts, less layering, and more focus on the ballerina's athleticism, just beginning to really flourish after a wartime hiatus.
Interestingly, a new style of skirt was beginning to gain traction, and you can see the beginnings of what would become the tutu we know and love. Imagine a classic knee-length tutu but, instead of the wide layers of tulle, there were less, lighter tiers of fabric creating a more fluid, elegant look.
Now, imagine the ballerina swirling on the stage, light and ethereal as she moved.
But that's not all that makes this particular date so interesting. It was also the birthday of the incredible Coco Chanel! A woman who redefined fashion with her revolutionary designs and brought a sense of elegance and freedom to the world of women's fashion. I must say, I love her! She understood the importance of simplicity and comfort, allowing women to move freely and beautifully – much like a ballerina in her tutu!
As a fellow fashionista, I just knew I had to make a trip to Chanel's salon to admire the latest collections! I must say, Chanel had a genius for capturing the zeitgeist of the times, elevating basic garments with a touch of luxurious design, using textures and materials that were unexpected yet stunning!
Can you imagine a world where every ballerina would look amazing in a stunning, simple yet sophisticated Chanel outfit while preparing for her ballet? What a dream come true!
And that brings me to my mission! Let's all bring that Parisian chic right back into our world. I think it's high time we added some serious Parisian flair to our everyday wardrobes!
Of course, you already know I'm an advocate for a fabulous, pink tutu. The colours of Paris – pastel, dreamy shades, elegant blacks, the bright reds and pinks – all lend themselves beautifully to the fabulousness of the pink tutu! Imagine a world where the pink tutu is the epitome of stylish femininity, a testament to all that is gorgeous and elegant.
We can make this happen! It's just about knowing where to look and having that bold fashion confidence to rock your pink tutu with pride.
After all, Paris in the early 1900s was all about a sense of freedom and innovation! A revolution in fashion, if you will. Let's follow in their footsteps.
Remember, there's no need to conform to what's considered "normal". Step outside your comfort zone and experiment! You could start by simply adding a dash of pink tulle to your favourite dress, or wearing a cute ballerina-inspired outfit to the ballet. Who knows, you might just become a trendsetter!
So go on, let's celebrate life and dance and spread joy wherever we go! Remember to leave a comment with your own ballet history favourites! And let's see those pictures!
Until next time, happy twirling!
XOXO,
Emma 💖🩰
