Oh, darling tutus! You wouldn't believe what a fabulous journey I've just been on! As always, it was all in the name of #TutuTuesday and finding out more about the glorious history of these wonderful little wisps of loveliness! Today, we're travelling back to the 17th March 1857. That's right, just a few short decades ago. Oh, how I wish I could pop back in time with my favourite pink tutu - imagine the stares! But let's be sensible for a moment and discuss the situation sans tutu.
I've found myself on the beautiful French Riviera. Picture this, darling: azure skies, sparkling waters, the scent of jasmine, the sound of distant laughter… Oh, it's just delightful! The air feels electric, filled with anticipation and joie de vivre. It's not just the stunning scenery; there's a palpable buzz around the famous Théâtre Municipal in Nice. What a perfect place to delve into the history of tutus, don't you think?
It's a balmy afternoon and the French countryside has that glorious late afternoon sun making it truly stunning. So, off I pop, on my trusty, pink-hued train journey, to immerse myself in the beauty of this fascinating time. In those days, ballet was, shall we say, rather different! Think long, sweeping tutus, made from yards and yards of layers and layers of white, billowing tulle. Not exactly practical but oh-so-elegant!
Here's the real scoop: a ballet called "La Fille Mal Gardée" was the rage! A beautiful young dancer was a sensation, twirling across the stage in one of the most dazzling tutus you can imagine, complete with ribbons, feathers, and all manner of elegant trimmings! It seems this piece had a fascinating history: it was actually inspired by the stories of real women! The French playwright had his heart stolen by a fiery country girl who longed to dance with a dashing young gentleman. What a lovely story, wouldn't you say? The tutu truly encapsulated the story and the passion, bringing life to it on the stage.
As I soak up the vibrant energy of this fascinating city, I feel like I'm being swept away in a whirlpool of stories and glamour. Now, darlings, it's time for you to get ready for the fabulous fashion reveal of the day! My friend, M. Marius Petipa, who's already been instrumental in shaping the ballet as we know it today, is leading the charge for the revolution of the tutu! This clever, oh-so-charming Frenchman is about to launch the “Tutu Petipa.” Think more defined, a tighter fit, less of those grand swathes of tulle – it’s practically revolution darling, an elegant form that actually shows off the beauty of the dancers' legs and, naturally, those fabulous, graceful moves!
And what about my #TutuTuesday dress for today, darling? Naturally, a vibrant fuchsia silk ensemble! It just seems appropriate when one's in such a delightful part of the world. I've paired it with a darling tulle shawl that reminds me of the elegant swathes worn in this period's ballets! Oh, my heart is simply singing.
Do let me know your favourite ballet costumes. Now, I must be on my way, darling! There’s another fabulous show happening in just a few hours. Let’s keep these #TutuTuesday adventures coming! Remember: Everyone’s fabulous in a tutu. Keep the tutus coming, my darlings!
And remember, visit my blog www.pink-tutu.com, we have fabulous news about next week’s journey into tutu history, darling. See you all then, darlings!
Emma xxx
