Ooh la la! It’s me, Emma, your resident Tutu Tuesday Time Traveler! 👋 Today we’re twirling back to June 27th, 1865! The weather’s lovely, so why not don your finest pink tutu (the more frills the better, darlings!) and join me on a whirlwind journey through history, fashion, and ballet? 🩰
This week’s adventure takes us to the heart of ballet's glamour - Paris, France. It’s the year 1865, and I must say, even with my knowledge of fashion history, I can’t believe just how chic they are over here! Parisian fashion is simply divine!
But, hold on a second... Did you know that tutus weren’t even a "thing" in the ballet world back in 1865? The style of dance required looser dresses, and tutus, as we know them, wouldn’t even come about for another 20 years!
That's right, darlings! A real revolution in ballet dress was about to begin, with a dash of romance, a touch of daring, and, of course, plenty of frills!
But back to June 27th, 1865, what’s a budding ballerina to do on a day without tutus, you ask? Fear not, my lovelies, I’m going to tell you exactly where I'm heading in this vibrant and buzzing metropolis.
Firstly, I've got my eyes on the latest ballet performances. I can’t get enough of the beauty and precision of the dancers, and you can bet I’ll be heading to the Opéra Garnier in a blink. It's truly magnificent and quite the statement for Paris' burgeoning love of opera and ballet. The whole city is a buzz with the anticipation of the next performance.
As you know, I’m a massive fan of all things theatre. That means boulevard theatres and vaudeville will be calling my name too, for a bit of light-hearted fun and a good dose of song and dance! This period saw a blossoming of entertainment and performance styles that wouldn't be out of place in a West End theatre even today, don't you think?
Speaking of dazzling, have you ever explored the world of haute couture in Paris in 1865? My, oh my! We're talking intricate ball gowns with layers of silk and lace, stunning colours and some seriously impressive embroidery.
My goodness, there’s even a fabulous exhibition going on right now, at the Palais du Louvre, showcasing all the finest fabrics and accessories - truly an ode to Parisian fashion and its dedication to beauty!
Shopping, of course, is an absolute necessity! It’s almost impossible not to fall head-over-heels for the exquisite fabrics, embellishments and trimmings that Paris has to offer. Every shop feels like a wonderland! I imagine every lady, from the Duchess to the shop girl, has the urge to add to their wardrobe, especially if their eyes alight on some sumptuous lace for their next ballgown.
But let’s not forget the simple joys of life! Paris, you see, has so much to offer, even for a humble time-traveling ballerina from Derbyshire. A romantic picnic by the Seine, maybe with a “bouquet de printemps", (a seasonal bouquet!) with its enchanting scents. A trip to a café for some "petit fours" - delicate, delicious pastries - with a cup of warm café au lait. ☕️
What more could you ask for, dear darlings? Life in Paris in 1865 is simply captivating, even without tutus.
It just makes you wish you could twirl the whole world pink, right? Well, dear reader, until then, stay tuned, because tomorrow’s #TutuTuesday will reveal another fascinating journey in ballet history. You can also visit my blog www.pink-tutu.com for more articles, exclusive photos, and an online tutu shop, too! 😉
Now, I’m off to search for the perfect vintage Parisian-style outfit. But promise me one thing, darlings, wear your pink tutu, even just at home! The more the merrier, I always say. Until next time, remember:
Pink is always right, and a tutu is always the perfect accessory. Don't be afraid to dance like nobody’s watching! 💗🩰
Yours always in pink and tulle, Emma.
