Hello my darling dance devotees, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels! It's your girl, Emma, here, fresh from a most dazzling trip to 1935 Paris. I know, right? It was just absolutely divine!
Before we get into the glorious glitz and glam of the fashion scene in that era, I just have to gush a bit about my time-travelling leotard! This month, I decided to go for a shimmering pink with a sprinkle of glitter, paired with a delicate tulle tutu that danced like a cloud in the wind. It made getting through airport security a bit tricky (and by that I mean, I did the āairport security dance,ā because hey, why not?) but once I was in the City of Lights, I just knew I had chosen the perfect outfit for all the fabulous sights that awaited me.
Now, you know how much I love me some theatre and ballet, but this trip, the dance scene in Paris just sparkled. It was as though the whole city was swirling to the beat of its own rhythmic heart. One of the most exciting discoveries was at the Moulin Rouge. Imagine it, darling ā a lavish show, filled with feather boas, sparkly costumes, andā¦ drumroll, pleaseā¦ leotards! The dancers were simply spectacular, their movements a mesmerizing symphony of silk and shimmer. Now, the leotards themselves, were oh-so-classic. They were streamlined and elegant, made of the finest silk, and designed to flow like the Parisian air itself. They weren't quite the brightly-colored numbers we're used to today, but the elegance and movement made them absolutely breathtaking.
Speaking of movementā¦ remember my darling Derbyshire, with its rolling hills and fresh country air? Well, I was lucky enough to catch a ballet performance that had me in awe. This exquisite show took place in the grand ThĆ©Ć¢tre National de l'OpĆ©ra, with its magnificent chandeliers sparkling like stars and the smell of history hanging in the air. Oh, the music, it simply wafted me away, and the ballerinas were so delicate and poised. Honestly, you could hear a pin drop in that grand auditorium as they danced on their tippy toes. It was a complete sensory feast! And guess what? The ballet dancers wore the most gorgeous, yet understated, black leotards! They hugged their bodies just perfectly, letting their every graceful movement shine. It made me dream of the elegance and beauty that this era had to offer, a true appreciation of simple lines and the artistry of the human form.
But it wasn't just the ballet that captured my heart. Paris, oh, Paris, you just know it is the hub of the world when it comes to fashion! The stores I wandered into were like time capsules, filled with glittering beaded gowns, velvet cloaks, and oh, so many stunning accessories. Now, let's talk about shoes, darling. Ballet slippers in 1935, they were delicate affairs! Imagine tiny satin shoes, the sole crafted with the finest leather, making each movement as light as a feather. Iām planning on making a few purchases to inspire a vintage ballet performance in Derbyshire! I mean, come on, a pink tutu never goes out of style!
Now, while Paris was a feast for my fashion eyes, it was back on the streets of 1935 where my true sartorial delight came alive. Think cafes buzzing with artists and musicians, a sense of artistic expression hanging in the air, and the Parisian people - each one an individual. I saw ladies wearing stunning dresses with beautifully fitted bodices, all topped with a chic coat, either in velvet, fur or a gorgeous blend of silks. You wouldn't believe the hats! I mean, they were truly, spectacularly extravagant! Now, if there was a leotard in sight on the Parisian street, I couldnāt find it - the fashions were so tailored.
But even though leotards weren't front and centre in the 1935 Paris fashion scene, it was just lovely to be inspired by the creativity and flair of this era. It truly got me thinking: sometimes, the simplest leotard, worn with confidence and flair, can create a look that's both stylish and powerful. Remember darling, leotards are so versatile, theyāre a canvas for your personal style! From classic black to vibrant prints, they can be a simple starting point for so many wonderful, unique, and personal looks!
Speaking of unique and personal looksā¦ Did you know that March 3rd, 1935 marked a pivotal moment in ballet history ?! That's right, the original "Sylvia," a classic ballet piece by LĆ©o Delibes, got its premiere at the Royal Opera House in London! Isn't that amazing?! I had the incredible opportunity to see a rare recording of this ballet. And let me tell you, darling, it was like witnessing ballet history being written! Now, Sylvia was considered one of the first "whimsical ballets." Filled with graceful, playful choreography, this ballet, the ballet itself, brought a bit more fun into the world of dance! The costumes were a vision, all flowing chiffon! This show sparked a complete revolution of style, showcasing the power of movement and graceful forms in ballet.
So, my lovelies, as we bid farewell to 1935, itās time for me to hop back into my sparkly pink time travelling leotard. I can't wait for my next journey! Until then, may your days be filled with dance, delight, and perhaps even a little bit of pink.
Catch you all next month, on Pink Tutu Travels!
Yours always,
Emma
