Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast, bringing you another week's dose of Tutu Tuesday from right here in…well, you wouldn't believe it! But thanks to a little time-travelling magic (and a lot of fundraising through my ballet performances), I'm writing to you from Paris, the City of Lights, for today, October 30th, 2029! How exciting is that?
Before I start with today's tutu journey, I have to gush about this city. It’s just so chic, you know? The cobblestone streets, the iconic Eiffel Tower, the stunning architecture - and of course, the incredible fashion! But let’s not get distracted. Let's twirl back to our tutu timeline…
This week’s theme: The 19th Century & The Rise of The Tutu!
Oh darling, picture this: The year is 1832. A young dancer, Marie Taglioni, steps onto the stage. Gone are the cumbersome skirts of previous centuries. What do we see instead? A revolutionary new garment: A light, airy, almost see-through creation! That, my loves, was the birth of the tutu! It was like magic! This single piece of clothing transformed the world of ballet, bringing with it a new age of freedom and artistry.
Let's take a little fashion deep dive, shall we? Marie's groundbreaking costume, a skirt worn above the knees, became known as the Romantic Tutu. Think fluffy, billowing, layers of tulle. Think light, breezy, elegant. It represented the liberation of women’s expression, symbolizing a spirit of beauty and romance that captivated audiences.
Of course, times changed. But through the decades, the tutu remained an indispensable part of ballet, with variations popping up every few years! The Romantic Tutu became the Classical Tutu, with a more structured, shorter skirt. Later on came the Modern Tutu, embracing contemporary forms and sometimes leaving the traditional tulle for lighter materials.
This week I got a chance to visit the Musée des Arts Décoratifs here in Paris, which just had an exhibition showcasing the evolution of ballet costume, featuring all the major periods! Oh, the tutus! From the soft Romantics to the dramatic and elaborate Classical designs, it was truly magical. If you’re ever in Paris, it's a must-see!
Now, where do I find a tutu like one of those beauties…
A Touch of the Romantic
Paris is like stepping straight out of a fairy tale. Every cobblestone street feels magical, especially when you wear a tutu, don't you agree? The city is awash with Parisian pink. (Seriously, it’s everywhere, darling. I even spotted a pink version of the iconic "I Love Paris" sign!) Of course, as a pink tutu fanatic, I simply had to find a special pink tutu here.
I went on a grand shopping spree and I’m delighted to say I snagged a stunning Romantic Tutu that embodies Parisian flair - just picture it: light pink, multi-layered, flowing tulle. The kind that whispers dreams and spins you away in a ballet of imagination. I simply can’t wait to twirl it on the Seine, bathed in the romantic glow of the City of Lights.
I've also picked up some adorable accessories - pink, naturally. A matching headband, a little velvet ribbon to tie around my wrist… and the prettiest pink beret with a touch of sparkle! My tutu ensemble is practically complete! All I need is a grand finale: a stunning pair of pink ballerina flats! Oh, how I wish you were all here to join me on my Parisian tutu escapade!
Today's Show
Now, today is a truly special day. Tonight, I’m attending a ballet performance at the Opéra Garnier. Can you imagine?! It's a legendary theatre that I've only ever dreamt of stepping into. This is truly a night to remember. I hear the production is Giselle which is always so heartbreakingly beautiful. And imagine, just imagine, I might be graced with a glimpse of that breathtaking “Dying Swan” scene! This tutu is going to get some real stage-time. I cannot wait!
And to top off a magical day, we’re having a "Parisian Pink" themed afternoon tea with a bunch of friends at this most charming tearoom just off the Champs-Élysées. Think miniature sandwiches, dainty scones, beautiful pink floral displays, and a mountain of teacakes… I know! My teacup is already filled with dreams of pink delight.
Well, darlings, this Tutu Tuesday blog post is just beginning. My Paris adventure is far from over! Be sure to check back in next week when I'll share all the exciting details of the ballet, the tearoom, and hopefully a whole lot more pinkness! Don’t forget, if you have a question or want to share your love of tutus, I’d love to hear from you! Until then, keep twirling and keep believing in the magic of tutus.
Sending love and pink wishes from Paris,
Emma
