Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina blogger, Emma, back again with another edition of #TutuTuesday! I'm bursting with excitement today, because not only are we delving deeper into the fascinating world of tutu history, but I'm also basking in the gorgeous springtime sun of Paris!
Just picture me, darlings, strolling along the Champs-Élysées in a breathtaking bubblegum pink tutu, a whisper of silk that catches the breeze like a cloud of spun sugar. Honestly, you'd think I was a princess straight out of a fairytale! (And let's face it, darling, sometimes a girl's gotta feel like royalty, don't you think?)
Tutu-ing Back In Time
Today, on this oh-so-fabulous 3rd of May, 2016, we're going to talk about a pivotal point in tutu history! You see, darling, tutus haven't always been the delicate, dreamy dancewear we adore today. Imagine, if you will, a time when ballet dancers twirled about in... gasp! panniers! Those big, poofy hoops that women wore under their skirts - honestly, just dreadful! It's a good thing the nineteenth century brought us a change!
You know how much I love a bit of good fashion history, don't you, darlings? Well, the story of the tutu starts around the mid-1800s, and it all centres around the brilliance of one Marie Taglioni. This visionary dancer challenged the norm with her revolutionary piece, La Sylphide! In it, she dared to wear a shimmering white, gauzy garment, with billowing skirts that reached just below her knees. Now, this might not sound terribly shocking today, but imagine the shockwaves this must have sent through the ballet world!
This daring display of bare legs (gasp!), was the seed that bloomed into the beautiful tutus we love today! Over time, the tutu evolved into a truly iconic garment: Shorter, lighter, and ultimately designed for movement. And that's just what the "tutu" was all about: moving.
Today's Parisian Delights
Now, I simply had to come to Paris, my lovelies, because this city just breathes ballet, wouldn't you say? It's not just the incredible history; it's the vibrant energy, the way even the cobblestone streets seem to pulse with rhythm!
But I'm not here just for the atmosphere, darlings, I'm here to witness one of the most incredible events on the French ballet calendar! Tonight, the Paris Opera Ballet are performing the iconic Swan Lake! This show is literally the stuff of legends! You see, darlings, the Swan Lake tutu has become a veritable symbol of the ballet world - it's a beautiful story of love and loss, beautifully reflected in the pure elegance of this iconic design. It's truly breathtaking!
My Little Dream of the "Perfect Tutu"
Before I whisk myself away to this enchanting performance, let me share a little dream of mine with you all. You know how I adore tutus in all shapes and sizes, but I'm constantly on the lookout for the perfect one. You see, my idea of the "perfect tutu" is something light, whimsical, and effortlessly chic. It's a vision of femininity that inspires and empowers.
I'd want to wear this perfect tutu on a romantic stroll through Hyde Park, under the glittering lights of the Royal Opera House, or maybe even as I conquer the cobblestones of a Parisian boulevard. Honestly, the possibilities are endless!
A Pink-tutu Challenge For You, My Dearest Readers!
And speaking of endless possibilities, I'm issuing a challenge for you, darlings! This week, take a moment to picture your dream tutu! What colour would it be? What style? Where would you wear it? I'm all about spreading the tutu love, so share your vision with the world and post a picture with the hashtag #pinktutuvision! Let's get everyone inspired to twirl with confidence, embrace their own unique style, and of course, indulge in the beauty of the tutu!
But before I go, let me say, you can bet your pink shoes that I'll be sharing all the details of Swan Lake next week! So stay tuned for an insider's glimpse into this truly breathtaking spectacle!
Until next Tuesday, my darlings, stay fabulous!
Love, Emma
