Bonjour, darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu clad time traveler Emma here, and I'm absolutely thrilled to be back with you this Tuesday. The world of tutus is so very fascinating, with stories and styles that are just bursting with life! This week, we're going on a trip back to October 16th, 1928 - a delightful time to be alive if you ask me!
Imagine, dear readers, the energy buzzing through Paris! The air is thick with the smell of freshly baked pastries and the rustle of silken gowns. It's the height of the Roaring Twenties, a time of great social change, and it's reflected in fashion, oh my goodness! We're seeing shorter hemlines, flapper dresses that are perfectly made for twirling, and let's not forget the stunning artistic explosion in the world of ballet. It’s the time when tutus took centre stage, no pun intended, and became something truly glamorous!
Now, the first thing that'll strike you about ballet costumes in the 1920s is that they're quite different to the long, flowing tutus we associate with ballerinas today. You see, the shorter, skirt-like tutu is actually more like a paved path to the grander, romantic tutus of later decades! It’s just beginning to gain traction as the new star in ballet costumes, but let me tell you, it’s like a tiny seedling already pushing towards the sun!
Think flapper girl fashion: think shorter hems, emphasis on the hips, and just a little hint of naughtiness, if you will. These tutus were light, flowing, and absolutely perfect for highlighting the intricate footwork and dazzling movements of these incredibly talented dancers. Oh, and don't forget the embellishments - think shimmering beads, elegant embroidery, and perhaps even a touch of feathers, adding a touch of whimsy that reflects the energy of the times!
It wasn’t just Paris, of course! The magic of ballet and its dazzling tutus spread across the globe. In London, one of my favourite spots, they were all the rage! The Royal Opera House was practically vibrating with this revolutionary fashion! And I was fortunate enough to be there for a performance on October 16th, 1928, and oh my word, the performance left me absolutely breathless. The sheer elegance of the dancers was matched only by the exquisiteness of their costumes. A glorious vision of feminine strength, poise, and artistic expression!
So you see, the story of the tutu is a story of evolution and innovation, much like our very own pink-tutu movement, darling! It’s about finding a way to make an object - a dress, a piece of fabric, a dance – feel like an expression of joy, power, and a whole lotta femininity! Just like in 1928, we are making our mark on the world, with a touch of glitter, a hint of frivolity, and most importantly, the courage to stand out and twirl.
Let me tell you a secret: my absolute favourite thing to do when I'm travelling is to search out little local ballet studios or shops where they have all sorts of beautiful ballet outfits, just begging to be admired! It's like stepping into a fairytale world filled with pink tulle, shimmering fabrics, and delicate ribbons. Just makes you want to get up and twirl!
I've also got a lovely surprise for you! I found this amazing little gem of a shop in Paris, full of the most stunning handmade ballet shoes, all hand-painted with delicate details and made with the most beautiful leathers! It was a feast for the eyes! I couldn't resist treating myself to a pair for my latest performance - they sparkle under the stage lights like tiny little stars!
Oh, and if you’re looking for some inspiration for your own pink-tutu adventures, don’t forget to visit my darling blog, www.pink-tutu.com - there’s tons of pink tutu-tiful inspiration there waiting for you! I’m sharing tips, outfits, travel diaries, even ballet class moves I learned! The key is to just start! Pick your perfect shade of pink, gather your tulle and embrace the fabulous world of tutus, because you are amazing and deserve to be seen and twirled, my dears!
Until next week, keep it pink, keep it pretty, and keep twirling!
Your very own,
Emma
