Bonjour, mes amies! It's Emma here, your time-travelling tutu enthusiast, back again for another week of Ballet Tutu History! Today, we're whisked back to a particularly glorious summer day in 1971, a year that marked a major leap for tutus in a certain Parisian ballet company, but I'm getting ahead of myself. Let's settle in with a lovely cup of Earl Grey tea and some petit fours, and take a little trip down memory lane together.
This past Tuesday, as I waltzed my way across the cobblestone streets of Paris, I was struck by the incredible fashion! Not only were the women sporting the most stylish hats, (one particular lady in a jaunty little beret stole my heart!) but there was a vibrant energy that truly electrified the air. It was a feeling you couldn’t escape; you simply had to be swept along in it!
And as luck would have it, today also happens to be the day a legendary performance by the Paris Opera Ballet took place. Now, 1971 was an interesting year for ballet tutus. You see, during this period, the Romantic tutu had found its way into many styles. It was becoming increasingly common to see a blend of classical elements alongside a more fluid, almost ‘flowing’ tutu, much like the Parisian styles that are adored today. This was truly the year the ballerina embraced her graceful artistry, allowing her silhouette to become a captivating masterpiece against the stage backdrop.
It is easy to say that Paris is the place where tutus are simply adored! So as I entered the majestic Paris Opera House (Oh! the ornate grandeur and beauty!), it was impossible not to get lost in the enchanting vibe, all in the spirit of the ballet. As the music filled the grand hall and the curtains gracefully rose, there it was, that delicate and enchanting feeling we all crave.
Tonight, I am excited to share some exciting facts with you. July 6th, 1971, marked a monumental night in ballet history! It was on this very date that the Paris Opera Ballet premiered their stunning production of “La Bayadère”, the choreography by Marius Petipa a breathtaking story that I simply adored! The entire company’s tutus were magnificent; you could see the passion they poured into each step. Their elegant moves truly mesmerised me! Every single twirl was pure artistry, reminding me that true beauty comes in many forms, especially in those delicate, twirling tutus.
Imagine it! A vibrant mix of pastel pinks and blues in that signature Parisian style, creating an almost whimsical scene on stage! Every move was both graceful and powerful. Oh, the sheer wonder of ballet!
After the performance, I took a train (oh, what a glorious experience!) to the heart of the city. The Champs-Élysées shimmered with dazzling lights! My feet danced as I scampered to the many chic stores showcasing the latest Parisian fashion. I'm dreaming of a Parisian wardrobe, so glamorous! Can you tell, that I have fallen completely head over heels with Parisian style? This love affair has no end in sight!
And now, for a #TutuTip: I am loving the combination of sleek sophistication with a bit of whimsy, a little touch of that ballerina elegance to give your look that extra oomph. Let's embrace the Parisian vibe with delicate pastels, lace accents, and an abundance of romantic, ethereal flair! Just like those magnificent tutus!
As the stars shone down upon Paris, I sat beneath the Eiffel Tower, a cup of tea warming my hands and a pink tutu cascading around my knees. I closed my eyes and envisioned myself dancing alongside the beautiful dancers I’d just seen.
That's it for this week, darlings! I'm back in the present, a bit of Parisian magic sprinkled across my spirit. Join me next week, where I'm embarking on another amazing tutu journey. Until then, keep dreaming of pirouettes and remember, every single one of you can embrace your inner ballerina, in the spirit of a gorgeous pink tutu.
See you next Tuesday!
XOXO
Emma
