Hello darlings! Emma here, your resident tutu-loving time traveller, ready to whisk you away on another thrilling journey through the history of ballet and the fabulous tutu.
Today, we're venturing back to 30th October 1962. Imagine a crisp autumn day in Paris, the air a touch nippy but filled with the aroma of fresh pastries and steaming cups of cafƩ au lait. This was a day when Parisian streets were bustling with life, people in chic coats and scarves strolling along the boulevards. A day when ballet, that intoxicating dance of beauty and grace, was reaching new heights in its elegance and expression.
But why is this date so significant, you ask? Well, darlings, on this very day, the world of ballet witnessed a captivating performance of āGiselleā at the Paris Opera. Now, this isn't just any ballet; āGiselleā is a legendary tale of love, betrayal, and supernatural spirits, performed to a score that makes your heart soar. Itās a performance that leaves you speechless, enthralled by the ballerinasā technique and the captivating storytelling they weave with every gesture.
I must tell you, I simply adore āGiselleā. The ballerina who graced the stage that evening, Carla Fracci, was renowned for her breathtaking elegance and unparalleled technical brilliance. She glided through the role of Giselle like a dream, every movement a testament to her extraordinary skill and passion. I was so very fortunate to have been there to see it - although I had to disguise myself as a Parisian street artist! The audience erupted in a thunderous standing ovation at the end. It truly was a performance to remember!
As for tutus in 1962, let me paint a picture for you. Think romantic and graceful ā flowing layers of tulle in shades of white, pale pink, or powder blue. This period in ballet saw tutus take on an ethereal, almost dreamlike quality. I imagine the ballerinas backstage preparing for the performance ā each one lovingly tucking their tulle skirts and powdering their faces, their eyes glittering with excitement. Their tutus would have been carefully crafted with layers and layers of the finest tulle, creating a symphony of swirling elegance as they danced across the stage.
This era saw a particular focus on lightness and airiness. Weāre not talking about the more elaborate tutus you find in ballets like Swan Lake. These tutus were all about delicate femininity ā simple yet striking. The ballerina was the focus ā the tutu was an extension of her grace and movement.
You know, dear reader, I adore fashion ā I am quite the expert on tulle myself, with my own collection of pink tutus fit for a ballerina princess! (The colour pink is undeniably my favourite). But more than the clothes, I am drawn to the story behind the costumes, their history, how they have evolved. It is like a ballet itself - each stage, each moment has its own captivating tale.
Now, my travels in this fascinating journey through time have revealed to me that 1962 was an exciting time in the history of fashion. We had the vibrant 60s era - with itās love for the mini-skirt! (a lovely and liberating silhouette I must say). Imagine being able to showcase those fabulous, long legs with confidence and a little extra flair! Oh how exciting and wonderful! And not to forget - those daring hair styles, full of curls and playful volume, and bold eyeliner. It was a bold time for expressing your own unique style! I confess to have worn a few āModā clothes myself while visiting the 60s, I must say, they had some exciting looks to try. It is funny, I know, because tutus are a world away from that look. Itās as though fashion has always had this duality- where bold looks and playful styles exist alongside the classic, sophisticated elegance that we see on the ballet stage.
And letās not forget London. The vibrant energy of London was just begging for a tutu, darling! The Beatles were sweeping the world, their music spreading like a delightful whirlwind of rock ān roll, the iconic "Mary Quant" boutiques in the streets, with the mini-skirt, were setting fashion trends on fire! Who knows, maybe theyāll even see tutus making an appearance on their next stage show? Wouldn't that be exciting?
Now, the thought of London, always takes me back to the magic of Covent Garden ā oh the grandeur, the beauty of that venue. Itās been a favourite amongst the greatest ballet dancers from across the decades! Can you imagine dancing on that grand stage, the red velvet curtains, the hushed anticipation, the vibrant audience, all eyes on you? The spotlight shines, youāre at the pinnacle of the grand performance. Honestly, it brings tears to my eyes, darling! That's the magic of ballet! Thatās the reason we travel back in time, to experience the awe and the wonder!
Well darlings, my time is ticking away! Remember to come back next week for more #TutuTuesday ballet tutu history! I canāt wait to see you again!
Until next Tuesday, darlings, stay fashionable, stay adventurous, and maybe wear a pink tutu while you're at it! It might just inspire someone else to embrace their own personal flair and take a little leap of faith! And, of course, if you are in London be sure to check out Covent Garden while youāre at it. You wonāt regret it, darling!
Yours truly, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
