Hello darlings! Welcome back to another edition of #TutuTuesday, your weekly dose of all things tulle and twirling. Today, I'm pulling back the curtain on a time period that holds a special place in my heart - the glorious Roaring Twenties!
You see, back in 1923, the world of ballet was changing, just like fashion. The dance world, like all the others, was caught up in the Jazz Age, filled with flappers and freedom. But don't be fooled by the sleek dresses and short skirts – a touch of tulle still had a place on the stage!
As I slipped into my cherry blossom pink tutu, it felt just right. The air here in Paris is buzzing with the excitement of a new era. The Seine shimmers under the glow of the Eiffel Tower, the cafe terraces are abuzz with laughter and the city is adorned in shimmering Art Deco embellishments. It's utterly enchanting!
The fashion scene, oh darling, it's a whirlwind! Parisian boutiques overflow with shimmering beaded dresses, silk trousers, and even a dash of vibrant feathers. The world of ballet is echoing these new trends, embracing a bolder, more dramatic approach to design. The old, billowing Romanticism, though still adored in Russia and other traditional dance capitals, has evolved into something new – a world of stylized grace and dramatic flourishes.
For me, the real charm lies in the innovative choreography of the era. Diaghilev's Ballets Russes were pushing boundaries with bold costumes and striking modern ballet designs. These designs, a mix of traditional tutus and more contemporary costumes with fringe and dramatic silhouette, showcased the energy and rhythm of the times. And the dancers, oh, the dancers! They're captivating – fearless and daring in their movements, capturing the spirit of this liberating time.
But while tutus are not yet as prominent in these new, modern styles, you can find them on stage still. The 'Diaghilev' tutus are iconic: a sleek, slim, yet daringly streamlined style made of layers upon layers of tulle for that classic fairytale flair, but with shorter, less restrictive silhouettes for movement. Just divine!
I even ventured into the studio this morning – the legendary Opera Garnier – to witness the incredible work these dancers are pouring into their art. They truly are masters of the movement and grace of ballet. As they practice with such dedication and precision, you can't help but be swept up in the passion of this unique art form. It's this energy that resonates so beautifully with the times – an exciting period where individuality and creative expression reign supreme.
Of course, it wouldn’t be #TutuTuesday without a little sartorial delight, so here's what I'm wearing to embody this era. It's a blush pink ensemble that is the perfect blend of timeless elegance and vibrant energy. My ballet flat shoes are dusted with sparkle, adding a touch of jazz age glam, and the beautiful pearl necklace was a fabulous find at an antique shop here in Paris. It whispers the romance of bygone eras with a hint of vintage charm.
The perfect way to celebrate this fabulous day – December 25th, Christmas Day in the Roaring Twenties! – is by attending a ballet show. And so, I'm off to the magnificent Opéra Garnier! There’s a magical performance of "The Firebird" lined up, a ballet that has captivated audiences for over a century.
As for Christmas in Paris, the city glows with the warmth of the season. Imagine charming Christmas markets adorned with lights, and festive treats like pain d'épices (gingerbread) and crèpes sprinkled with sugar. A truly Parisian Christmas experience, and it even inspired the fashion trends for today - everyone loves a good bit of pink velvet! A Christmas celebration as exquisite as the dance itself.
I can't wait to share with you more tales from this delightful era! But for now, let me know what you’d like me to explore further, I'm always on the lookout for fascinating tidbits of ballet history and fashion from different eras.
Until next Tuesday, my dears, stay fabulous, embrace your inner ballerina and let’s all twirl into the New Year!
Love and sequins,
Emma xx
