Hello darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you back through history and into the magical world of ballet tutus. It’s Tutu Tuesday, and this week, I'm taking us back to the vibrant 1930s. Grab a cuppa and a delicious slice of cake, as we hop aboard the Time Train and prepare to be transported!
Stepping out of the train in Paris – the beating heart of ballet in 1939 - I'm instantly captivated by the beautiful sights and sounds. Even in the slightly chilly air, I can practically hear the rhythmic thrumming of the tutus! I must say, they certainly have their own distinct fashion moment here. The shorter, more fluid style with delicate, intricate embellishments adds a wonderful playful energy to the dancers’ movements.
On March 21st, 1939, ballet aficionados like me would have been swept up in the excitement of the "Les Sylphides" performance. This ethereal ballet was created in 1909 by Michel Fokine, featuring an incredible performance from Tamara Karsavina as a dreamy and enchanting Sylph, adorned in the lightest of gossamer tutus. Can you picture it, my lovelies? I can practically see the wisps of tulle swirling in the soft glow of the stage lights, creating a captivating ballet spectacle.
If I’d stepped into the Théatre des Champs-Élysées on this date, I would have seen some truly iconic ballets. The famed Ballet Russes de Monte Carlo were enchanting audiences with “La Fille Mal Gardée," a light-hearted comedy that is still performed and enjoyed today. What’s more, they’d have brought a captivating mix of the classical and the contemporary, bringing the enchanting "The Prodigal Son," which featured a revolutionary and almost shockingly dramatic storyline for its time. This was no delicate waltz or romantic fantasy – the choreography spoke to something primal and daring, and I bet it caused quite the stir in Parisian society!
Speaking of Paris, what's a fashion blogger, even a time travelling one like myself, without mentioning a few fab finds! Let’s take a stroll down the elegant streets of Paris, with a stop at a couture shop, for a little sartorial indulgence, shall we?
Oh, my darlings! My eyes are practically popping! Imagine layers upon layers of chiffon and tulle, softer than the gentlest feather, swirling in delightful shades of lilac and blush. I'm simply giddy with excitement! These delicate tutus are the embodiment of Parisian elegance. I could practically get lost in their airy, ethereal quality, lost in a swirl of tulle, and dreams of graceful ballerinas, pirouetting under the glittering chandeliers of a grand theatre.
Don’t worry lovelies, you don’t have to travel through time to bring some tutu magic into your life! There's no need to fret about any wild adventures; the enchanting allure of tutus is simply waiting for you to embrace. I have to say though, as an avid admirer of this exquisite garment, I strongly encourage a bit of ballet class fun in your week. Even the most basic movements, a simple arabesque or even a single twirl, feel extra special in a tulle confection! And it's the perfect excuse to grab a few extra slices of cake with your afternoon tea!
To add a little magic to your day, even if you can’t quite time travel (yet!) here are my top tips for embracing a little Tutu Tuesday magic in your own life:
- Dance like no one's watching (and wear a tutu): There’s absolutely no judgment zone in the world of ballet tutus – unleash your inner ballerina! Turn your kitchen into a stage, put on some fabulous music and let your imagination take you wherever it leads. If you’re not quite ready for a full-on twirl in the middle of a busy kitchen, consider a whimsical tutu accessory! I love a stylish pink tutu scarf, perfect for adding a pop of colour and a sprinkle of ballet magic to any outfit.
- Plan your next ballet adventure: Ballet performances, and classes are simply delightful and perfect for adding some artistry and wonder into your life. Even just looking up local ballet shows in your area, or searching out videos of the classics online, can be incredibly inspiring!
- Seek out the artistry of fashion: What's better than a beautiful ballet tutu? I believe the answer to that is a collection of them. I always enjoy researching vintage tutus and researching the artistry of ballet costumes through the ages – it's absolutely captivating to see the history of fashion through this incredibly unique art form. Remember, my lovelies, fashion is a powerful form of self-expression – so have fun with it and let your imagination flow freely!
- Spread the joy of a pink tutu: It's officially a Tutu Tuesday mission: Share the love for tutus and bring a little ballet joy into your day, your week and even your life! We are all a little bit more dazzling and charming in a beautiful, whimsical pink tutu!
- Embrace your inner dancer and your individuality: Remember, darling, everyone has their own unique, personal story! The magical thing about fashion is that we can play with style and let it become a reflection of our thoughts and our hearts. Wear something that makes you smile – a whimsical floral skirt, an extra-bold scarf – you’ll instantly feel brighter!
As always, I’ll be back next Tuesday with more enchanting stories of ballet, tutus, and all things pretty. If you’re interested in your very own time travel tutu adventure, let me know! For now, I’m off to discover more captivating tales – perhaps it's time to explore a bygone era filled with Victorian bustle dresses and charming dancing masters. Oh my! Until next week, happy dancing my dear readers!
