Hello darlings! It's Emma, your resident tutu-obsessed time-traveller, back for another #TutuTuesday blog post! Today we're heading back to the roaring 20s, a time of flapper dresses, jazz music and, of course, beautiful ballet.
Post Number: 4843
As a lover of all things pink and fluffy, my heart always skips a beat when I find myself amidst the beautiful Parisian ballet world. This week we're taking a peek at what's happening on the 21st October 1924 in Paris.
My goodness, it's positively electric out here! Today is the opening night of Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes's performance of "Le Train Bleu" at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées! Imagine – a ballet inspired by the elegance and glamour of train travel! I do love a good train journey myself. My journeys through time are often by train, whizzing past historic landscapes and arriving in exciting new eras!
This "Le Train Bleu" production features dazzling choreography by Bronislava Nijinska and the stunningly simple costumes by Coco Chanel – how divine! Chanel has created a range of beautiful outfits that embody the spirit of the time, from chic sports wear to shimmering gowns, all designed to accentuate the beauty of the dancers' movements. This is just the beginning of her revolutionary influence on fashion and the balletic stage!
Speaking of fashion, let's delve into the evolution of the tutu in 1924. Remember how I always say, every decade has its own take on the tutu? We've come a long way from the classic romantic tutu – long, layered and full. The 1920s saw a move towards shorter, more streamlined styles with geometric shapes. These "short" tutus were influenced by the fashion trends of the era – think flapper dresses and their shorter hems and the desire to be practical and move freely.
The short tutus created a whole new sense of dynamic movement, showcasing the ballerina's strength and fluidity in a more athletic and contemporary way. We're talking leg extensions, turns, and jumps in a totally different style compared to previous decades!
Don't get me wrong – the romantic tutus were still seen, of course. Ballet companies like the Ballets Russes were experimenting and trying out new styles while still preserving traditional elements. It was a very exciting time for ballet and fashion!
Speaking of exciting times, don't forget that October 21st, 1924 is also a day worth remembering for other reasons! This is the very same day that the first "talking picture", "The Lost World," was released. I can only imagine the thrill of watching a movie with dialogue! Talk about a new era in entertainment! And with these talking pictures on the rise, ballet can't be left behind. Just you wait for those amazing costumes and dance routines!
On a side note, I simply had to make a pitstop at the famous Galeries Lafayette in Paris. The shop window displays are breathtaking – they seem to capture the excitement and opulence of the city perfectly! Oh, the clothes – the fabrics – the exquisite accessories! They truly set the standard for fashion. Imagine having the chance to be part of this iconic fashion scene!
Now, a little peek into my tutu-inspired outfit for tonight. It's a light pink, silk tutu, of course! Short and sassy, with an elegant drape. I've paired it with a silky cream top and a matching cream head scarf, channeling that elegant Parisian vibe. Oh, and did I mention the crystal embellished hair clips? Simply stunning! Let's not forget a pair of pearl earrings – they bring out the sophistication of the ensemble perfectly.
Oh, darling! I just know I'll be catching the "Le Train Bleu" performance! My inner ballerina is getting excited! Don't forget to check out my Instagram account @pinktutublogger for some more live updates! I just can't wait to see all the costumes in real life!
Until next Tuesday, keep on twirling and stay fabulous, my fellow tutu enthusiasts! 💖
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. Be sure to keep a lookout for our special '1920s Tutu Style Guide' next week. I’m going to explore more about those short tutus and their iconic shapes! We’ll also see some real-life examples from the most famous ballets of the era!
P.P.S. Keep your tutus sparkling and follow my Instagram for all the latest from your resident time-traveling tutu aficionado! 😉
