Throwing a fancy dress or costume party? Why not think about a saucy Moulin Rouge theme. Dress in the style of the notorious Parisian Night Club of the 1890s, costumes such as Can Can Fancy Dress, Burlesque dancer or Showgirl Costume. The name “Moulin Rouge” comes from the “Red Windmill” on the top of the night spot which gives a recognisable sky line to the Parisian evening.
The start of the the Moulin Rouge can be discovered in events both social and political at the turn of the nineteenth century. The Franco-Prussian war had ended and the great war (now called World War one)had yet to start. Industrialisation held out the hope of a better future for most and not just the rich few.The prevailing atmosphere was one of Joie de Vivre, fickleness and a carefree life. Social norms were turned up side down, and a diverse cultural expansion would lead to an explosion in the arts and not a small amount of fun and frolics. In this environment all levels of society were pushed together for the first time in French history, the culture of the population was enlarged in a contented disorder full of vitality and happiness. Painting and literary movements flourished and died as people came to terms with this new paradigm. Artists like Toulouse-Lautrec had numerous influences but prime among them was the orient in particular Japan.
The shows and dances at the Moulin Rouge quickly became very popular. At the end of the show the population discovered, with growing fondness, a new dance the French Can Can. The female dancers were know as the Chahuteuses (unruly girls), many thought their morals were as lose as their limbs which flailed about in the famously riotous dance. The dance and venue were disliked by the establishment and church for its fast beating rhythm and open sexuality. Guide books at the time however described the young girls as an army who dance this wonderful hullabaloo. The many scandals which followed only served to enhance the night clubs reputation. Some of the best clients of the establishment, like La Goulue, were made famous in paintings by Monsieur Lautrec.
Of course numerous books and films have covered this period in French history and in particular the Moulin Rouge. But the film starring Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman and released in the year 2001, led to a major shift in how the film’s tile “Moulin Rouge” is now viewed. It has come to stand for the kind of costumes portrayed by the film Can Can, Burlesque, Show girls and Ring Master.So a previously lose collection of fancy dress types have been brought together under one title and the popularity of Moulin Rouge Fancy Dress parties and hen nights has mushroomed. It is now possible to find a numerous variety of costume types both on line and in hire shops. Go on have some enjoyment and have a boisterous and outrageous party which echoes back to the oh so bad Moulin Rouge.