Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-clad time-traveller, Emma, back with another jaunty jaunt through the glorious history of the tutu! Buckle up your ballet shoes, because today, we’re pirouetting our way back to June 5th, 1928!
Oh, the excitement! This week’s trip has been a particularly glamorous affair. Imagine my delight, landing in the very heart of Paris! It’s as though the city itself is a shimmering, grand ballet, from the cobbled streets to the grand buildings. The Parisians are such chic creatures – think chic, yet with a little dash of Bohemian, in my book. There’s a whole artistic, glamorous spirit to this place – you can almost taste the inspiration hanging in the air!
Speaking of inspiration, one couldn’t imagine a better time to be exploring Parisian fashion. 1928 – oh, it was truly an era of stunning fashion, like something out of a film!
Now, let’s dive into our delightful tutu-centric journey! I simply had to visit the Opéra Garnier. Honestly, it's like a magical fairy palace. There's gilded ornamentation everywhere, dazzling chandeliers that shimmer with a million lights, and, of course, those sumptuous red velvet seats - fit for a royal ballet.
Speaking of royal ballets, I’m a big fan of Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes. Imagine the sheer drama, the sheer showmanship. Think opulent costumes, daring choreography, and some of the most iconic dancers the world has ever seen! Now, it may come as a surprise, but even in 1928, these ballerinas, some sporting variations of the tutu, were defying gravity and conventions, breaking down those archaic ballet traditions and turning ballet into a new, thrilling form of theatre. Talk about #balletgoals!
In the realm of dancewear itself, there was quite a buzz around “the tunic,” a shortened ballet skirt which is basically a more casual, yet chic, form of tutu. This darling little garment was seen on all sorts of dancers - ballet girls to those performing more contemporary forms. It really speaks to the trend of wanting to create something chic and playful. These new tunics – some with a slight flutter of fabric – brought this carefree spirit into the realm of ballet wear. Now, I’m all for an elegant yet relaxed tutu, and if the history of ballet fashion tells us anything, that look isn't going anywhere anytime soon!
Of course, on such an incredible Parisian adventure, no trip is complete without shopping! Now, the boutiqe shops of the city are simply teeming with divine outfits. You know what? Parisiennes have such amazing style. From the trench coats and flowing skirts to the bold hats and shoes - there’s a sense of individuality that oozes off the streets of Paris. The air vibrates with energy, and even the windows of the grand shops have their own charisma! The stores brimmed with chic shoes and accessories. The footwear was particularly striking – all sleek, fashionable, and even daring in places. And oh! You know I simply had to snag a few gems – a new pair of dancing shoes with just the perfect little twinkle in them. It was a necessity, wasn't it? I couldn't possibly resist the charm!
So, from our 1928 adventure in the heart of Parisian fashion and dance, we return with a handful of tutu-rific inspirations! The key takeaway is, in the midst of change, the ballet continues to evolve - becoming ever more breathtaking, vibrant and captivating! Whether it’s a sweeping tutu on a grand stage or a chic tunic in a street performance, these creations are a testament to the artistry and passion of the dancers and designers. I, for one, am absolutely smitten!
Don’t forget to follow my Instagram at @pinktutu.em. As always, keep on twirling and rocking your fabulous tutus, and I'll see you next week for another adventure in ballet history!
Stay fabulous, darlings, and never forget - life is meant to be danced!
Love,
Emma
