Tutu Tuesday #6807: Twirling Through 1962 - It’s All About The Leg!
Bonjour mes amies! It's Tuesday again and that can only mean one thing: it’s #TutuTuesday time, my darlings!
This week, we're taking a delightful little journey back in time, all the way to the 12th of June, 1962. My oh my, what a year it was! The Beatles had just hit the charts, everyone was dancing to the cha-cha, and the world was simply brimming with exciting energy.
And you know what else was bubbling over? The excitement for ballet, my darlings! The graceful twirls, the beautiful artistry, the breathtaking costumes - ballet was simply everywhere you looked! I was whisked away on a magical journey by steam train from my little corner of Derbyshire, England to Paris, the absolute hub of all things fabulous, for the most divine show by none other than the legendary Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris!
This time, it was “Giselle” taking centre stage. The beautiful story, the poignant dance, and that gorgeous pink costume worn by the prima ballerina. Simply perfection! Every move was an absolute feast for the eyes, the leg extensions just incredible. That's something we still look to emulate today, you know? The way ballerinas used to extend their legs, their poise and grace was just...divine.
It was also an incredible time for fashion. Think full skirts, lots of frills and lots of pink - absolutely right up my alley! Just think of all the tutu-tastic possibilities for creating our own little ballerina dreams!
I’m actually just back from a little shopping trip in the Marais district of Paris. Oh darling, the most fantastic little boutique selling everything pink. They’ve just got the most delightful fabrics - we need a big swish of the pink silk just like in “Giselle!”
But, we don’t have to copy the Parisian elite exactly! We can bring our own fabulous twist. How about a pink tulle tutu with a lovely blue satin sash? Imagine the way that would shimmer in the lights! You can pair that with a lovely floral corsage – perhaps some tiny roses. So divine, right? You just need to bring your own personal flair and, remember, everything looks great in pink! I have a wonderful time trying out all the lovely colours. Sometimes you just have to play with it to find the one you love the most.
But, let's talk about the real star of the show, our magnificent ballet tutus. You wouldn't believe the amazing work that goes into these masterpieces! I met a very nice seamstress, Madame Dubois, in the beautiful Latin Quarter last week - a truly charming woman - and she explained everything to me. They take delicate layers of tulle, just the right kind, and they meticulously hand-stitch them to the waistband - they have to be really careful with those stitches, no rough seams allowed for these pretty princesses! She showed me the incredible intricate detail that goes into each stitch - just unbelievable!
I must say, it's incredible how fashion is evolving, but one thing that’s remained a constant - and always will - is that magic of the ballerina's tutu. It truly embodies elegance and grace!
So my lovely ballerina fans, I think you all agree, that the ballet tutu is the epitome of timeless femininity, a symbol of all things wonderful and magical. Just like our pink tutus, they are symbols of beauty and happiness! And, remember, nothing is as wonderful as the joy of putting on your pink tutu, doing a little pirouette, and letting your inner ballerina shine through.
We’ve still got a little bit of the day left, and I just know the next #TutuTuesday will be a magical experience. I’m still on cloud nine after the Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris and the divine clothes in Paris. What’s more fabulous than a little trip through history, some elegant tutus, and maybe a little shopping at the end? That's what I call a perfect #TutuTuesday!
Now, darling, I simply must run, I have a delightful rehearsal waiting. Until next time, remember, embrace the magic of ballet and live your best pink-tutu-loving life!