#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1938-04-05

Bonjour mes amies! Welcome back to #TutuTuesday, your weekly dose of all things tulle, and a journey through the history of the most delightful dance garment – the tutu!

Today, I'm feeling utterly Parisian, having just travelled by train across the Channel. A trip on the train, you see, always inspires creativity. As the world whirls past in a blur of greenery, the gentle rumble of the engine just sets my mind to dreaming about graceful lines and elegant swirls. It's no wonder my Tutu History blog post today focuses on the glamorous city of Paris, which has always held a special place in my heart, particularly for its influence on fashion and the ballet world!

This particular Tuesday takes us to April 5th, 1938, in a glorious era where the tutu reigned supreme! The 1930s saw the rise of the romantic, ethereal tutu in the classical ballet world, influenced by the romanticism and grandeur of the time. In Paris, this beautiful and iconic style of tutu was embraced wholeheartedly.

Now, let's paint the picture – imagine bustling Parisian streets, ladies sporting wide-brimmed hats and elegant cloche hats. Chic Parisians stroll past grand boulevards adorned with posters showcasing the latest fashion. This era saw designers like Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel leading the fashion charge, injecting a sense of streamlined modernity into the Parisian landscape. And you can't forget the men in their perfectly tailored suits, giving the streets a distinct, stylishly sophisticated vibe. It's truly a captivating era, full of charm and elegance.

Within this breathtaking setting, imagine the spectacle of the Ballet Russe, captivating audiences with their expressive artistry and stunning, flowing tutus. At the Théâtre National de l'Opéra, beautiful ballerinas were a breathtaking sight in their intricate tutus – delicate wisps of tulle cascading around them as they leaped and twirled across the stage, radiating a captivating, otherworldly charm.

But it wasn't just the Paris Opera that showcased the allure of tutus. On this very date in 1938, a certain "La Sylphide," the epitome of romantic ballet, would have been taking the stage. The story of a magical fairy captivating a young Scotsman with her airy elegance – a tale perfect for tutus that whispered a story of delicate fantasy.

Now, as a devoted fan of all things ballet and beautiful, you can't come to Paris and not dive headfirst into the captivating world of its boutiques and ateliers. For my fellow Tutu-loving readers, there is simply no other place on earth! Think of exquisite tulle shops overflowing with lengths and layers of ethereal tulle, shimmering silk, and delicate fabrics in every colour imaginable. I can almost imagine the vibrant, passionate atmosphere – the smell of freshly pressed tulle and the excitement of selecting the perfect fabric to create your own magnificent tutu!

On this very Tuesday in 1938, Paris buzzed with fashionable activities. The streets were adorned with Parisian women strutting in their stylish attire, showcasing their individual sense of flair. Imagine me, my dearest, strolling along these very boulevards with my trusty pink tutu swirling around me, stopping at a quaint little fabric store brimming with all things elegant. Picture my hands meticulously sifting through yards of delicate lace, silks, and tulle – dreaming of crafting my own unique Parisian creation!

Paris, with its passionate embrace of the arts, continues to be the world's undisputed capital of the dance, and tutus, for their part, hold a cherished place in Parisian hearts. Even in these modern times, they are a symbol of Parisian flair – a nod to elegance and artistic expression. Whether it’s a classic ballet at the Opéra Garnier, or the enchanting atmosphere of a captivating street performance, Paris, you see, is forever bound to the ballet and the allure of the tutu.

And for my loyal Tutu-loving readers, I encourage you to find your own Parisian flair! Dust off your finest outfits, pick your favourite shade of pink, put on your best ballerina shoes and take a stroll around your local streets. Channel those chic Parisian vibes, and, while you're at it, remember that every day can be a celebration of tutus! After all, my dearest, there's never a wrong time to twirl, dance and enjoy the world of ballet. And maybe, just maybe, while you're out and about, you'll inspire a friend to embrace the pink tutu magic too!

And until next #TutuTuesday, stay fabulous and keep twirling!

Love,

Emma

P.S. Be sure to leave a comment and tell me about your favourite Parisian dance experiences! And don't forget to join me on www.pink-tutu.com where you'll find loads of delightful Tutu Tuesday content - including links to historical dances, modern ballet troupes, and some tips on how to design and make your own fantastic tutus! It's a world of swirling possibilities, just waiting to be explored!