Oh my dears!
Welcome back to Pink Tutu, the ultimate online haven for all things tulle and twirls! It’s Tuesday, which means it’s time to step back in time, grab our pinkest tutu and journey to the captivating world of Ballet Tutu History!
Christmas Eve eve! I don’t know about you, lovelies, but I’m already in a festive mood. I've just had the most heavenly Christmas lunch at a quaint little cafe in Derbyshire - imagine, roast goose with all the trimmings, followed by a beautiful cranberry and orange tart. It's honestly got me all in the spirit of giving!
Now, today's historical tutu journey whisks us back to the 23rd December, 1997. This was the year when my own love affair with ballet truly began - the year of the "Swan Lake" ballet performance at the Royal Opera House! I'd gone with my dear Aunt Gladys, and as I sat there in my sweet pink velvet dress, my eyes grew wide as the ethereal dancers glided across the stage.
It was then and there I realised what I was destined for: I needed to be a part of this incredible world, to twirl amongst the beautiful ballerinas in a tutu of my own! Little did I know, fate had even grander plans for me.
And, in this time period of 1997, we saw a magnificent change within the ballet world, my lovelies. Imagine: tutu design reaching its peak! Yes, it's true!
Let me tell you, ballet was really finding its groove back then. They weren't afraid of experimenting, you know! The costumes were becoming ever more creative and expressive. We saw the emergence of these stunning multi-layered tutus, crafted from so many delicate tiers of tulle - like fluffy clouds in a dream, my dears! It was a true spectacle.
Think "Giselle" with its romantic billows of tulle, or the captivating "La Bayadere" with its dazzling and intricate tutus! These creations took my breath away. This time period in ballet, it was like a beautiful, shimmering tapestry of dreams, made tangible through intricate design and delicate fabric.
And while we’re on the subject of fashion, have you heard about the Parisian Haute Couture shows happening just last week? Imagine - creations straight from the pages of my dreams, draped over mannequins like goddesses! They've sent me scrambling for my sewing kit, dears. I think it’s time to re-design some of my beloved tutus, perhaps a dash of French inspiration? Hmm…
This past week, I had the most delightful train journey up to Edinburgh to catch a performance of "Sleeping Beauty." Let me tell you, darling, a train trip with the slightest hint of rain creates the perfect setting for inspiration! (You just must read “Rebecca,” darling. I finished it this week, it’s pure Gothic romanticism!). I was even wearing my new pink satin bow in my hair - you should see the colour, my dears, it’s simply divine!
*But of course, our pink tutu wouldn't be complete without a touch of the whimsical. * I simply must tell you about a shop I found hidden away in a quaint little village near Buxton called “The Pink Poppy.” It’s the most enchanting place! Every single item, from teacups to silk scarves, is some shade of pink! My goodness, darling, it almost felt as if the walls were covered in the delicate petals of a rose. They even had a dress made entirely from tiny silk flowers, just like my very own tulle dream!
Ah, speaking of my very own tulle dream - let’s hop back to this week in ballet, shall we? Back in 1997, on the 23rd December, it was actually two legendary ballerinas we celebrated: Sylvie Guillem and Darcey Bussell. Imagine: such talented ballerinas grace the stage on a night as magical as this! These ladies embodied the grace, strength and passion of this extraordinary art.
Remember my darlings, every Tuesday we’ll embark on a new tutu journey to the past, where we’ll delve deeper into the story of this extraordinary ballet tradition. We'll talk about the grand designs of tutus throughout time and the unforgettable performances that lit up the world.
Let’s spread the tutu love! Remember to follow www.pink-tutu.com, and share your thoughts on my latest tutu escapade in the comments. Now, it's time for me to pick out my fanciest tutu - you see, darling, I’m off to a ballet gala tonight. We'll be celebrating "Swan Lake" - just like my first real encounter with the beauty of ballet! And maybe, just maybe, I’ll wear a little something pink for this magical night…
Until next week, darlings, and remember - wear your pink tutu proudly, always.
With twirls and joy,
Emma x
