#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 2012-05-01

Hello darlings! Emma here, back with another #TutuTuesday, taking us on a whirlwind tour through the history of the ballet tutu! It's such a joyous occasion for us all, wouldn't you agree?

The sun's shining, birds are singing, and a gorgeous pink tutu is on my lovely derriere, and we're off on a little train journey to Paris, France, the city of love, romance, and yes, ballet! What else is there, my lovelies?

This week's date, Tuesday 1st May 2012 takes us right in the heart of the Ballet National de Marseille. It's just bursting with talent, wouldn't you know, and I'm so very pleased to report a thriving French fashion scene, especially when it comes to tutus.

You see, when it comes to tutus, Parisians simply know their style! Imagine, darling, tutus fluttering past the grand cafes on the Champs-Elysees, shimmering like delicate flowers under the Parisian sun! So, if you're ever feeling daring (and believe me, dear readers, darling, I encourage you!), whip up that lovely, swirling pink tutu and strut it out!

### Ballet & Paris

But let's talk tutus. Just imagine those elegant ladies, swirling across the stage of the Opéra de Paris in their romantic, billowing tutus. I don't think it gets much prettier!

Did you know: In the 19th century, tutus weren't quite the airy whimsy they are now, they were quite short and practical. It was actually Maria Taglioni who introduced the longer, ethereal version, with the famous “Taglioni tutu” that swept across the stage like a dreamy cloud, completely transforming the way ballet dancers looked! It's truly something else.

It really took off in the early 1900s. Tutus got softer, more delicate, more beautiful. It’s the kind of design that simply lets your imagination soar! Now that’s what I call an artistic statement.

Oh, by the way, darling, if you happen to find yourself in Paris today, make sure to visit the Palais Garnier, home to the Paris Opera. The grand staircase, a dazzling masterpiece in its own right, would be just perfect for showing off a fabulous, twirling pink tutu! Oh, just imagine, darlings, how you'd feel twirling down it in your pink tutu. Pure joy.

And did I mention that today (1st May, 2012) is * *May Day, a lovely tradition of celebrating the return of spring and the beauty of nature, and a time for peace and celebration of life, in most of Europe!**

Why not go celebrate May Day in a lovely, bright, pink tutu? Now, that’s a May Day idea I'd love!

Today, darling, we travelled by TGV from the Gare du Nord to the Ballet National de Marseille, and it's such a fantastic way to travel. It was a chance to soak in the beauty of France as I travelled in a very comfortable compartment on a lovely, swift high-speed train, and it gives me a chance to reflect on all those fabulous French ballerinas whose artistic vision makes me dream of tutus.

## Tutus in France

Of course, Paris is famous for its ballet, but there is so much more to discover in France and it seems tutus are everywhere! I can’t resist a little tutu-buying spree, wouldn't you?

I went on a shopping expedition yesterday and found the most enchanting tutu in a lovely vintage boutique in the Le Marais district. Imagine, my loves, a gorgeous, full, pink tutu, that whispers romance and adventure! It was practically calling my name as soon as I stepped through the door!

You see, I often go to London for performances at the Royal Opera House, and I often find my way into the ballet stores on Covent Garden. But it is impossible not to get lost in Paris - Paris just gets in your blood - a vibrant, enchanting energy.
You feel it on the cobblestones as you walk down those narrow streets, or when you feel the rhythm of the music coming from the Champs-Elysees, just the perfect city to celebrate the sheer joy of dancing, music and style.

I can’t say how much I love it when I see a little girl twirling down the street with a pink tutu that matches her lovely, sparkly shoes. Tutus are just that special! They're timeless, and they inspire everyone who sees them! I don't think anyone can resist that. They bring back all those childhood dreams, don't they, darling? There's simply a magic to them. So don't hesitate, go ahead, embrace the tutu and the magic!

I have found tutus have always been about celebrating femininity and style through fashion in its many, beautiful forms. Whether they're a delicate, classic or a vintage stunner like the one I found, a tutu is a must-have, a wardrobe staple!

You'll have to forgive me, darlings, my passion for pink, especially tutus, but, I can’t help it. It's always my favourite colour! And if you're like me, you just have to visit these gorgeous shops for tutus in Paris!

• Les Ballet Roses, Saint Germain des Pres: A beautiful and sophisticated boutique just steps from the River Seine, with a vast range of ballet accessories.
  • Maison d’Art Couture, in the Champs-Elysees: Known for creating spectacular designs for Parisian Opera performances and selling stunning tutus for the more refined dancer!
  • Boulevard Haussmann Vintage: Here you can find some of the most incredible, vintage tutus which have graced the stage and survived the years just waiting for a new owner and a fresh, fabulous performance!

And here in Marseille we can visit:

• La Maison de Danse: You’re bound to find a perfect tutu and a few dance-inspired items to enhance your look, and just to help bring out your inner dancer!

Wherever we go, tutus remind us that dance is an amazing, joyful, and inspiring art! You'll find a new world waiting to be discovered by putting on your pink tutu and getting lost in the beauty of movement and music! And, there is something so magical about dancing in a tutu, wouldn't you agree, darlings?

I believe in tutus! Do you?

Until next Tuesday, darlings, remember, every day is a Tutu Tuesday if you believe it is!

Your darling ballerina blogger,

Emma

(www.pink-tutu.com)