Post number 8775, darling readers! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, dedicated to all things tutu! đ©° I'm Emma, your trusty tutu-clad guide to the whimsical world of ballet and the glorious history of its most iconic garment.
Today's date is quite special, even more than usual for a Tutu Tuesday, wouldn't you agree? It's the 29th of February, 2000! The day of leap years, and a perfect excuse to leap into some thrilling history.
You know, time travel isn't always about grand voyages through time, but rather a chance to appreciate the small moments - the fleeting glances at bygone fashion trends, the echoes of enchanting music and the evolution of the most darling of garments: The Tutu!
Speaking of which, dear readers, I had the most delightful trip to Paris this past week, taking a swish through the Grand Palais. Now, if you've ever stepped foot in the capital of France, you know that its aura just screams, âParis is always a good idea!â And itâs always a fantastic place for a tutu enthusiast to visit, especially with so many grand ballets playing on.
But I didnât only travel for the Ballet OpĂ©ra! A trip to Paris isnât complete without a spree down Rue du Faubourg Saint-HonorĂ©, * wouldnât you agree? Oh my! That glorious boulevard with the likes of Chanel and Dior â what a treasure trove for the eye! While my current wardrobe consists almost entirely of pretty pink tutus, I do occasionally succumb to the allure of haute couture, just for the odd elegant occasion, of course. But who wouldnât love to stroll around the *Galeries Lafayette or Printemps?!
You might be wondering why Paris, right? I'm so glad you asked, because the history of the tutu is intricately interwoven with the grand Parisian ballet scene. While the roots of the tutu might lie a bit further back, it was during this very year in 1900 when the tutu really bloomed into its iconic form.
You see, 29th of February or not, 1900 was a magical year for ballet, and tutus especially. Think delicate tulle layers that were getting ever shorter, fluffier, and more dramatic! It was all thanks to a brilliant ballet master by the name of Marius Petipa and a visionary dancer called Anna Pavlova! These talented folks were changing how the tutu looked and danced. It was no longer a costume for dancing - it became part of the story! It had real movement! And all the pretty ruffles and tiers - think ribbons and lace! So sparkly! Imagine a dance of beautiful colours and shapes. This is the era of the Romantic tutu.
And who could forget that very famous and beautiful ballet âThe Dying Swanâ? That iconic ballerina with that fluffy, elegant tutu? This was made even more poignant with the way the white tutu helped highlight the delicate beauty and grace of this amazing choreography. Oh, to be Anna Pavlova! Youâll notice how the ballerina moves on point, right on the tips of her toes! Imagine trying to wear a tutu that would support such incredible athleticism. These women were really strong. I can't get enough of their commitment and talent!
Just imagine, dancing through time - not as a ballerina myself, of course, but witnessing these legendary figures through the grace of my trusty Time Traveller's Handbook.
Back in our time, tutus have come a long way! The fashion in tutu land hasnât just evolved in styles; it's evolved with the world. These days, I see tutus on street performers, at music festivals and, my favourite of all, at ballet events - oh, I just love the feeling of anticipation as I watch those stage curtains slowly part to reveal a dazzling lineup of dancers in glorious tutus! Theyâre also an important piece of history, and this kind of dress helps women feel powerful. What I adore most is their ability to sparkle under the lights and tell a thousand stories without a single word spoken.
And now, Iâve got a treat for you, dear readers, because every Tuesday is alsoâŠdrumroll⊠#PinkTutuDay!! Now I know what youâre thinking: Isn't Pink Tutu Day every day? đ And youâre absolutely right, But a special Tutu Tuesday means an extra sparkly outfit, right?! This week Iâve even whipped up a gorgeous DIY Pink Tutu using soft pink tulle and lots and lots of sparkling diamantes. Squeal! And to get everyone excited for #PinkTutuDay, I'll be launching a contest â Share your own pink tutu outfit by tagging your fabulous selves with #PinkTutuDay! I'll be choosing my favourite to receive a sparkly, limited edition Tutu Time Traveller's Journal, where you can document your own adventures, whether it's your first ballet class, a thrilling new dance number, or just a stylish strut in your own pink tutu wonderland.
Thatâs all for this weekâs #TutuTuesday, my dears. And remember: "Life is a dance - take a spin in your own unique tutu!" đ©° Until next week, and always wear pink!
