Hello my darling Tutu-istas! It's Emma here, back from a whirlwind tour through the wonderful world of ballet history. And wouldn't you know it, today we're heading to Paris, the City of Lights, the City of Love, and let's be honest, the city where a good old fashioned tutu never goes out of style! We're stepping into the year 1958, a time when ballet was still flourishing and tutus were twirling their way into the hearts of everyone!
As I'm sure you know, every year in December the Parisians celebrate Christmas, the Festival of Lights. It's such a lovely time! Imagine – the glistening Christmas trees, the twinkling fairy lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and all that gorgeous holiday fashion! But wait, December 9th, 1958, was extra special for the French. It was the day the beloved French Ballet du XXe siècle kicked off their performance schedule at the Opéra National de Paris! Now this was a troupe not to be missed!
I simply had to get myself into the elegant Theatre Garnier and enjoy the artistry of the legendary Maurice Béjart. And of course, no ballet performance is complete without the pièce de résistance – the gorgeous tutu! I spotted an exquisite classical romantic style tutu, made with layers upon layers of soft tulle, perfectly complimenting the delicate dance movements. Imagine it! A perfect little pink ballet dress, flowing and fluttering – just heavenly!
That same year, in February, another important Parisian ballet troupe, Le Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris, showcased the dazzling talents of Margot Fonteyn in “Giselle.” The delicate, romantic tutu Fonteyn wore was iconic.
Now, while I love the classic tutus that perfectly showcase the grace and beauty of ballet, 1958 saw the beginning of something revolutionary. The advent of "Balanchine tutus"! These tutus were more daring, with shorter, straighter skirts made with minimal layers of tulle, showing off more of the dancers' leg lines. They added a bold, contemporary feel that took the ballet world by storm!
Of course, I didn’t forget to do some serious fashion browsing at the charming shops along the Champs-Élysées. I found the cutest little hat with a delicate feather trim and an equally cute handbag with a tiny sparkly ballerina charm.
But the best part of the trip was enjoying a beautiful Parisian breakfast, complete with a selection of delicious pastries.
Don't you agree, darling? Nothing quite beats a warm croissant, a good cup of tea and the inspiration from a fabulous tutu, right? And there was absolutely no way I was leaving Paris without buying at least four of the cutest tutus, all perfectly suited for different ballet routines.
After a magical evening of ballets in the City of Lights, I caught a late night train to Derbyshire. As always, the train journey is full of delightful fellow travelers and lovely gossip. I simply cannot imagine a more delightful way to travel! But for now, it's back to my pink tutu filled room!
I hope this glimpse into the ballet world of 1958 has inspired you. Do keep the tutus flowing, darlings! Remember to share your ballet stories with me – it's such a joy to hear about how others connect to the magical world of dance!
Stay beautiful, stay glamorous, and keep twirling!
With a coup de théâtre flourish,
Emma
xx
www.pink-tutu.com
