Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, and welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com. Today’s the 12th of December, and, after a gloriously flamboyant November full of sequins, feather boas and fabulousness, I'm venturing back to a decidedly more restrained decade: 1947!
As ever, the magic of my pink tutu, that lovely, frothy, twirly confection, whisked me back to the bustling heart of 1947 in a whirl of petticoats and sparkles. This month, we’re going old-school Hollywood glamour!
First stop: The Astor Hotel, New York, where the fabulous Joan Crawford was throwing a birthday bash for her glamorous friend, Marilyn Monroe. Yes, you read that right, darlings, Marilyn Monroe! Now, at this point in her life, she was just a starry-eyed, but oh so talented, Norma Jean. The girl had some major potential even back then, and she definitely was a vision in her stunning red sequined gown. She gave a lil' tap dance performance and oh my, the atmosphere was positively electric, darlings. All the leading actresses, Hollywood royalty, they were mesmerized. She's already turning heads and hearts! There is so much glamour to be found in those classic black-and-white pictures. It really gives you a good appreciation for the fabulous fashion that has gone before us, right?
So, with the glitter of the American movie scene still in my eyes, my tutu and I set our sights for some serious European high fashion! Off to the Maison Dior couture show, Paris, we sashayed! Christian Dior himself presented his groundbreaking "New Look," a masterpiece of post-war fashion. A breath of fresh air. He redefined feminine silhouettes with bold, fitted jackets and flowing skirts. Such elegance, darling! All the top socialites, the aristocracy, everyone was whispering "Magnifique!" and "Couturier!" about Monsieur Dior’s designs.
We couldn't stay in Europe forever though, even a girl in a pink tutu needs a good fish and chip supper occasionally! The call of the "chippy" was beckoning me back to good ol' Derbyshire, England. You’ve gotta admit, there’s no place like home, even for a seasoned time traveller.
Of course, while we’re here in dear old Blighty, I had to take in the local drag scene. Things are getting a bit more experimental. We had Madame Duval, a renowned stage actress known for her dramatic pantomimes and satirical sketches. She could really belt out a tune! And we also have Danny La Rue performing his camp and hilarious comedy routines across the country. His stage persona was so sharp and sassy! Oh, darling, I love it! Even with everything a little more toned down than today’s extravagant displays, you could feel the spark of creative spirit that would blossom into the dazzling drag scene we have today. We’re standing on the shoulders of giants, as they say, and the spirit of self-expression burns ever brighter!
Before I sign off for the month, a quick peek into the world of fashion back in 1947. A big thing for ladies is the 'new' silhouette – the “New Look,” just like what Dior designed in Paris. Tight-waisted and billowing full skirts – all about embracing a feminine silhouette. As for men’s fashion, we've got all those dapper-looking fellows in their three-piece suits. Classic elegance. That's the era's definition of chic! And if you’re thinking about giving those sharp cuts a go, a pair of perfectly polished oxfords is the ideal footwear. Oh, and I think we need to get some pin curls back, girls. Pin curls and lipsticks are essential, darlings, and we mustn't forget the vintage hats! There's nothing like a head-turning chapeau for adding a little glamour to your ensemble!
Time to say au revoir for this month! Let me know if there’s anything you'd like me to check out in the future. Maybe some legendary disco drag acts? Or maybe a show from the dazzling Golden Age of Hollywood? I’ll do my best, darlings!
Don't forget to keep checking in every month. And keep spreading the pink tutu love!
See you next month!
XOXO
Emma
