Hello darlings! It's Emma here, back from a quick trip to 1920s Paris – quelle aventure! I must say, my pink tutu caused quite a stir – the locals here are more accustomed to their flapper dresses, and I suspect the odd peek at my petticoats made them blush a little! But, you see, today is #TutuTuesday, and a girl has got to embrace her tutu history.
I'm sitting in a beautiful Parisian cafe, the aroma of fresh croissants and strong coffee swirling around me. Just yesterday, I was standing on the stage of the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées - an incredible venue! It's a stark contrast to the Parisian Opera House, which, believe me, is dripping with so much opulence, it would make your head spin! (Not literally of course, my dear readers, unless you were standing very close to a chandelier.)
I was fortunate enough to witness a performance by the Ballets Russes. The company was truly pioneering back then – you’d be hard pressed to find any form of contemporary ballet in the West without their influence! This incredible company had already captivated audiences with its daring designs, thrilling costumes, and bold new dance styles. Think intricate costumes in rich silks, jewels and feathers – they really know how to create a spectacle.
Speaking of costumes, today's #TutuTuesday takes us back to a time of great transition in the world of ballet tutus. 1920 - that’s a big year! It marks the very beginning of the "Romantic era" in ballet – the period when those ethereal, floating tutus we adore today truly came into their own. It wasn’t all lace and ruffles at the start – early tutus were actually rather practical – like knee-length skirts, just above the ankle, made of lightweight fabrics.
But by the early 20th century, ballerinas like Anna Pavlova, whose dancing was considered pure poetry in motion, began demanding something that would accentuate their movement. Enter the Romantic Tutu! These beauties, longer and lighter, were made from multiple layers of fine tulle, with no fabric restricting the legs! And can you imagine the impact of such a garment, floating across the stage in all its diaphanous glory?
Of course, even as I look around this vibrant Parisian city – and trust me, you’ve never seen so much style – I realize it's not only in the ballet world that a sense of transformation is taking place! 1920 marks the beginning of the Roaring Twenties! The era of jazz, the flapper, the women who are rewriting the rules of style! This is a time of excitement, a time of daring.
And darling, let's not forget the train! I spent a glorious morning watching ladies from all walks of life hop onto a vintage steam train at the Gare du Nord - each a stylish vision in a feathered hat and flowing dress. Even here, amidst the rumble and clanging of the train tracks, I swear I felt a sprinkle of Parisian elegance!
What I wouldn’t give to slip into a stunning 1920s dress, just for a night, just to dance a little tango with the gentleman at the cafe. Sadly, time travel does take its toll - a pink tutu and a pair of sparkly shoes aren’t exactly conducive to a long journey! And trust me, I am more than just a pretty face; I wouldn’t dare leave home without a few practical pieces. Oh, the wonders a girl’s wardrobe can hold!
Remember, darlings, if you love ballet tutus as much as I do, join me every Tuesday for a #TutuTuesday time travel escapade, all at the fabulous www.pink-tutu.com.
I'll be whisking you all away next week to explore another beautiful corner of our enchanting ballet history!
And just imagine - I may even wear my tutu pink dress, as it’s an entirely new colour that no one’s ever seen in this time! It will truly be something for the locals to talk about!
Until then, wear your best tutu and don’t forget to twirl!
Xoxo,
Emma
