#PinkTutuWorld Ballet on Planet Earth on 2008-04-30

Hello darlings! It's Wednesday again, which means it's time for a new Pink Tutu World post, and guess what? I'm back on good old Planet Earth! After jetting around the cosmos in my custom-designed pink spaceship, The Tutu-mobile, I've decided to give my tired feet a much-needed rest and share all about my latest galactic adventures!

As you know, I love exploring the universe in search of the perfect tutu inspiration and, believe me, the Milky Way doesn't disappoint. This week, I'm especially thrilled to be back on Earth for a very special reason – the London Royal Ballet is showcasing a spectacular production of "Giselle" at the Royal Opera House. It's the perfect opportunity to witness the breathtaking artistry of these world-class dancers in action, while simultaneously getting my tutu fix!

My trip to Alpha Centauri, last week, was particularly enriching. It was, by far, the most avant-garde ballet scene I've encountered so far. It seems these Centaurians are far more avant-garde than we are here on Earth – I saw some tutu creations that would give even the most adventurous Parisian fashion designer a run for their money! Think geometric shapes, fluorescent materials, and the occasional touch of interstellar glitter. Absolutely mesmerising!

On the flip side, I couldn't resist picking up a gorgeous, hand-crafted tutu, fashioned from a celestial material the locals call 'Stardust'. Apparently, it has been said to be worn by a cosmic ballerina known as ‘Celestia’ who, the locals claim, taught them all how to dance on air. I mean, who could resist buying that?

Speaking of inspiration, let’s go back in time, shall we? I've always loved learning about the origins of the tutu. I recently discovered, whilst reading a rare copy of "Tutus Through The Ages: An Intergalactic History" in my ship library, that tutus have been worn by dancers for centuries! The earliest versions were actually just ‘little skirts’ designed to show off the graceful movements of ballerinas.

Of course, things have changed a bit since then! We've gone from fluffy, ankle-length skirts to the iconic, short tutus we know and love today!

The origins of the classic short tutu are attributed to the Parisian choreographer, Marie Taglioni. She actually insisted that her dancers wear this new style for her iconic ballet "La Sylphide." This sparked a revolutionary change in ballet and in fashion itself, creating a new aesthetic for the future of the dance world!

I always get a little flutter of excitement when I'm heading towards Covent Garden. It's just pure magic, you know? This magnificent Victorian masterpiece is steeped in theatrical history, each stone echoing with centuries of artistic whispers and a century and a half of opera and ballet history! I love how you can practically feel the energy of countless actors, dancers, singers, and musicians.

Before I even entered the Royal Opera House this week, I stopped by one of my favourite spots for ballet memorabilia in London – a little shop called “The Ballet Bazaar.” I'm a real sucker for souvenirs, especially ballet ones. I snagged a beautiful, hand-painted ballerina doll wearing a perfectly miniature version of the "Giselle" tutu. Oh, the perfect memento!

Then I took a leisurely stroll to The Royal Opera House. I must say, the building itself is a true piece of architectural art. As I stepped inside, the grand foyer, all gilt and glamour, immediately put me in a ballet-themed daydream. Everywhere I looked, it felt like I was in an immersive ballet spectacle!

Later that evening, I attended the "Giselle" show at the Opera House. The entire show was breathtaking, full of emotions and beauty! The ballerina’s delicate movements were absolutely enthralling. You really can’t help but be enchanted by their performance! It’s such an evocative, passionate show that it’s no surprise "Giselle" has become a ballet classic! As the lead ballerina moved, the tutu was like a soft whisper of pink across the stage. And just a hint of sparkle! Divine!

Speaking of "Giselle", you have to know about the fascinating "Giselle" tutu itself! Its beauty and history truly enthrall me! There have been various interpretations and designs over the years. But, traditionally, the “Giselle" tutu is designed with tiers of white tulle, which creates a cloud-like effect, symbolizing purity, innocence, and, of course, romance.

It also reflects the character's ethereal quality. The entire tutu design is breathtakingly ethereal, truly mirroring the beauty of the show and, I must say, giving me tons of tutu inspiration!

After the "Giselle" show, I made my way to my favourite street style hotspot, Carnaby Street! There I spotted some fabulous outfits and of course, a few pink tutus scattered around, even on a rainy London night. It was fantastic!

It was inspiring to see how street style has embraced the tutu beyond just the ballet stage! People wore tutus with leather jackets, sneakers, or even high heels for a modern take on classic elegance. They didn’t look too outlandish or even too dressy; they were perfectly cool and effortless – just what the modern ballet aficionado needs, don't you think?

After that little outing, I ended my day in one of London’s most celebrated vintage boutiques in Kensington. It's overflowing with gorgeous vintage clothing from every era. I spent the afternoon, sifting through racks upon racks of dresses, skirts, coats, and yes, tutus!

There were some beautifully handcrafted tutus – they weren't too long or short and they were perfect! I decided to splurge and purchase two for myself – one black, one lilac. It will be great fun incorporating them into my London street style. After all, why wait to bring my out of this world inspiration back home?

Now that I've seen a real live "Giselle" and brought home my gorgeous new vintage tutus, I can't help but get my sewing machine going! I’m going to be busy designing new and inspired tutu creations over the next few days.

And that, my lovelies, is my big promise to you today – a tutu explosion that combines inspiration from vintage tutus, the delicate beauty of the “Giselle” tutu, and my out-of-this-world interstellar adventures. Of course, everything will have that lovely, touch of Pink Tutu World sparkle!

You just wait for the post-show tutu creation reveal next week!

Now, I'm off to catch up on some ballet history in my home library, while I'm dreaming up designs for a cosmic inspired "Giselle" creation – a little fusion of Earthly elegance and stellar chic, for you all to see next week!

Until then, keep those pink tutus swirling and dancing!

Love,

Emma 💖