Hiya darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where we delve into the wondrous world of the tutu. Today, as ever, it's #TutuTuesday, and we're taking a trip down memory lane. Buckle up, darlings, because we're heading back to May 30th, 1972!
Now, I've always loved travelling by train. The clickety-clack of the wheels, the rhythmic sway of the carriages, the gentle rustling of fabrics… it's just pure magic. Imagine, my darlings, that instead of your usual tube ride, you get to hop on a steam train, whizzing through the countryside, on a trip to Paris. Ah, Paris! The City of Lights! It’s the heart of fashion and art, and what better place to find inspiration than amidst the hustle and bustle of its enchanting streets?
And it was in Paris that I saw my first ever performance by the legendary Mikhail Baryshnikov. Oh my word, the power, the grace, the absolute joy of his dancing! You could see the fire in his eyes, feel the music pulse through his very being. It was truly a performance that sent shivers down my spine. The Palais Garnier Opera House, the setting for this exquisite spectacle, was practically dripping with glamour, like a gilded cage for butterflies. It's hard to explain just how magical it all was - seeing Baryshnikov perform on that stage, surrounded by the sheer beauty of this historic building, with all its ornate carvings and sweeping staircases…
As for tutus in 1972? Oh, the styles! We were just entering the era of shorter skirts, think "La Bayadere" and "Giselle" with a contemporary edge. Imagine a perfect balance of classical lines and bold, modern movement, all enhanced by that short and flirty skirt!
The colours were vibrant - think splashes of cerulean blue, fiery oranges, and fiery red. But darling, nothing can compete with the elegance and romance of the timeless tutu in soft pink. It's a classic that never goes out of style!
Of course, while I’m in Paris, I simply must go shopping. And where better to browse than the famed Printemps department store? Rows upon rows of silk and velvet, shoes in every imaginable colour and heel height… oh my goodness! It’s a shopping haven. But I’m searching for something specific: a gorgeous vintage piece, perhaps a feather boa in shades of pastel pink.
On May 30th 1972, in Paris, life was buzzing! The streets were filled with art enthusiasts and artists, actors and dancers, lovers and dreamers… everyone radiating a unique style and flair. It was such a joyful and inspiring time. You can’t help but want to wear a beautiful, swirling, pink tutu!
Back in Derbyshire, where I was born, I find myself enjoying an afternoon tea at a quaint little cafe. The aroma of freshly baked cakes and the tinkling laughter of the cafe owners were just like being whisked back to simpler times.
And to end the day? Why, a wonderful ballet performance of course! Tonight, we have the stunning "Sleeping Beauty" being performed. I must say, my darlings, I have a weakness for traditional tales like this. There’s something about a classic princess and her happy ending that truly brings out the best in any ballet. Oh, the music, the costumes, and the storytelling through dance! What could be more magical?
As the curtain comes down and the final applause fades, I realize that while tutus are wonderful, what truly inspires us all is the spirit of dance, that spark of passion that we all possess deep within. So go on, darling, don't be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina. You may not have a stage to dance on, but that doesn't mean you can't express yourself through movement and grace. And perhaps, like me, you might even be inspired to grab a pink tutu!
Now, let’s bring it back to present-day! Remember to keep your eyes peeled for my #TutuTuesday blog post next week. Until then, stay glamorous, stay playful, and never stop twirling!
Bisous,
Emma xx
