Hello darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina! Welcome back to another dazzling #TutuTuesday! I'm so excited to be here today, writing to you from the very heart of the tutu-loving universe - whispers...Paris! Oh, it's truly the most delightful place on earth. Imagine â boudoirs adorned in pale pink, the streets buzzing with ballerinas in tutus, and the most magnificent boutiques bursting with tulle and sequins.
Today, Iâm taking us on a fascinating journey through time, exploring the evolution of the beloved ballet tutu! Buckle up, my lovelies, because we're going on an enchanting ride through the history of this most iconic dancewear, uncovering its story right from the very beginning.
The Genesis of the Tutu
Now, hold on to your hats! The first-ever mention of a tutu, you wonât believe it, came in a painting! Yep! Think about it. The very first time somebody wanted to portray what they considered a âtutuâ, they used a paintbrush! And believe me, itâs pretty stunning! This painting, depicting dancers in loose-fitting knee-length gowns with ribbons and trimmings, was painted by an Italian artist named Sebastiano del Piombo. You can see this captivating piece in the MusĂ©e du Louvre here in Paris, so be sure to pencil that in when you're next in town.
The "Romantic Tutu" - Elegance on a Grand Scale
Jump ahead to the Romantic Era â the time of grand emotion, flowing melodies and ethereal dance. It was this era, and the genius of choreographer, Marius Petipa, that gave birth to the âRomantic Tutuâ â a dazzling symbol of grace and fluidity. Now imagine - wispy layers of white tulle, reaching almost to the floor, a vision of unfettered movement. Picture those amazing prima ballerinas, a little bit like fairies in a delicate, floating, dance dress. You know, if you want to see this era, it would be wise to travel back to the 1840s! Winks. But of course, that wouldn't be terribly safe! Best you take a peek at a book on ballet history first.
The "Classical Tutu" - Taking the Stage in Style
Moving right along to the 20th Century! Here, the tutu truly transformed. You have the Classical Tutu, darling, that fabulous dance dress worn with a perfectly-shaped bodice. Itâs often referred to as the âBell Tutuâ. The famous one-tier tutu, for instance, is iconic, especially during a famous waltz! Imagine that famous tutu on stage during that scene where Swan Lake makes a grand entrance! So stylish and perfect for dramatic moves, wouldn't you agree? The most elegant dancer would want to show off their skill and strength, and a tutu of this style just looks so sensational!
Modern Tutu: Evolution in Motion
Now, weâve travelled right through history. Here we are today. And of course, modern dance has a way with tutus! Itâs brought to life through the vision of exciting choreographers such as Twyla Tharp and Matthew Bourne, making it look oh-so contemporary and just completely different! But that is what I like about modern dance - always experimenting, always breaking down boundaries. And when it comes to the tutu, my lovelies, that's one piece of ballet wardrobe that will never be forgotten!
Pink! It's Just Always Perfect
The very thought of pink brings such wonderful joy. So many lovely hues of pink â from soft blush to the most radiant fuchsia! Itâs not just a color, my lovelies, it's an emotion. Imagine - dancing to classical music on a gorgeous Parisian stage, twirling in the softest pink tutu under a canopy of swirling pink light! If I have to pick a tutu of any color, darling, it has to be the color of our very hearts â pink, of course!
A Quick Trip to Paris
Right, darlings, let's talk about what makes my heart skip a beat...Paris. My goodness. Paris. Well, the highlight for me is just going to a ballet class. Itâs something truly special. But, before you do a bit of shopping! Just off the Champs-Elysees is The Galeries Lafayette, a truly stunning department store, and itâs been making its mark for over a hundred years. Now I hear this store is a dream for shoppers like you! I have heard itâs absolutely heaven! And, my dear girls, they have the most beautiful pink tulle you've ever seen. Just divine. I can almost smell it.
Tonight's Show
Tonight's show at the Palais Garnier in Paris is a spectacular event. I can already picture the majestic red-velvet seats, and those ornate balconies overlooking the stage, making for the most dazzling scene. Oh! To see some incredible dancers in the most gorgeous tutus, spinning across that glorious stage in a dance ballet... itâs something I will never get tired of. It's not every day you can enjoy world-class dancers in the heart of France. It is what we call 'perfection'.
This Tuesday in History
Todayâs #TutuTuesday is the 7th of March and the anniversary of a beautiful moment! The Ballet de lâOpĂ©ra de Paris celebrated their opening at the Palais Garnier a hundred years and twenty three days ago!. The date - March 19th, 1875, just under one hundred and fifty years! Isnât that quite extraordinary? The story goes that this magnificent place was designed by the great Charles Garnier. It features stunning painted ceilings that are truly incredible.
Wearing A Tutu - It's A Way of Life
Let's talk about wearing tutus, darling, and my ultimate mission! My dearest followers! The joy of wearing a tutu isnât just for ballet. I like to wear them with everything â with vintage blouses, sleek midi skirts, or even on a chic shopping trip around Paris! Itâs not only the beautiful material; it's about confidence, playfulness, and pure style. Donât you just love a good tutu?
Don't Be Afraid of the Tutu
Whether youâre a seasoned ballerina, or you just have an appreciation for beautiful things, let your inner dancer shine! Wearing a tutu is a joyful expression! And, my darlings, never let anyone tell you that you can't.
Join me, and we'll be sure to get every one twirling in a pink tutu! Because you know, my loves, life's too short not to wear a tutu at least once a day!
**And Until next Tuesday,
Emma xoxo
