Hello, darlings! Emma here, and it's time for another exciting voyage through the shimmering world of ballet! This month, we're skipping back to February 2nd, 1921, a year crackling with energy, a year full of daring new moves in both fashion and the art of ballet itself. Buckle up, my loves, for today we're off on a whirl with Magic Meg, my shimmering pink steed, through a glamorous era.
My trusty leather rucksack, packed with notepads and my special collection of ballet-inspired vintage accessories, is prepped for another whirlwind journey. Remember, darlings, I love to bring back pieces from the eras I visit to share with you. Today, a dash of Art Deco-inspired sparkle and a peek at some fabulously-flamboyant 20s fashion will adorn my London flat (and yours, if you're lucky!).
A Twirling Start to 1921: What's on in the World of Dance
Now, this is a time full of artistic excitement. In Paris, the OpƩra de Paris has a busy season planned. "The Sleeping Beauty" takes the stage with breathtaking sets, a perfect start to the year, and in London, the famed Sadler's Wells Ballet is already thrilling audiences. The innovative choreographer Leonide Massine, who's pioneering modern ballets, is working on his stunning "Les Presages," a story of doom and hope.
In the heart of London's West End, we have a special treat - the Empire Theatre's "The Midnight Follies". Now, this isn't pure ballet, but it's a show full of glitz, glamour, and thrilling dance routines! Imagine sequined gowns, flamboyant costumes, and dancers moving with dazzling speed ā all lit by a symphony of electric lights. It's pure magic, darling! Itās a little naughty too - they say some of the dances are even a tad risque - just my style, I say!
Fashions in Flight: A Symphony in Pink!
But itās not just on the stage where thereās movement and a dash of mischief. On the streets, Londoners are embracing a newfound spirit of freedom. Clothes are flowing and free, the ladies have cut their hair, and everyone wants to move like they are dancing on air!
For me, the 20s is the decade that makes my heart flutter. Pink is all the rage - so naturally, I feel right at home! The delicate pastel pinks and peach hues of gowns, feather boas, and cloche hats add a sense of whimsical, feminine beauty to the era. Think of the elegant yet modern dancers in "The Sleeping Beauty," their delicate pastel tutus swishing in perfect rhythm. Now, doesnāt that just scream "pink tutu-ific," darling?
Speaking of tutus, this is a crucial year for ballet fashion. I love how the tutu design begins to transition into the streamlined lines of the Art Deco period. You can already see the geometric designs starting to creep in. A nod to the Art Deco architecture in cities around the globe. The iconic colours are already gaining traction. Look out for gold, black, and silver alongside those gorgeous pinks and greens ā a divine combination!
Meeting the Masters of the Ballet:
But this time travel isnāt just about costumes and spectacles - it's about meeting the people behind the brilliance! Today, Iām feeling a bit daring and am hoping to catch a glimpse of Serge Diaghilev's Ballets Russes. Diaghilev's company was absolutely revolutionary ā they were pushing the boundaries of ballet, showcasing extraordinary new talent, and captivating audiences across the world. And they were obsessed with beautiful costumes and elaborate sets ā exactly the kind of dramatic impact I admire!
I wonder what their latest show isā¦ "Les Presages" is in the works, perhaps. Oh, and to imagine the chance of catching a performance by a legend like Vaslav Nijinsky ā one of the greatest male dancers of all time! Or maybe Iāll spot a glimpse of Tamara Karsavina, known for her lyrical grace and incredible technique. Just to be in the same room as these icons would make this a trip worth a hundred ballet slippers.
And don't even get me started on the backstage atmosphere ā the electrifying energy of these creative souls in their element, the anticipation before the curtain rises, the music reverberating through the buildingā¦ it sends shivers down my spine, darling! Every dancer who dances in those performances creates a tapestry of history, making their own story, a beautiful story just like mine.
My Adventures in 1921:
I imagine my Magic Megās hooves clinking on Londonās cobbles as I ride through the buzzing streets, watching as people rush to and from. They might not know a pink tutu from a teapot but they're all part of the swirling narrative, arenāt they?
And the cityās beauty itself is part of the art. Maybe weāll stroll by the London Palladium, where its glittering faƧade adds to the aura of excitement.
A little later, my pink outfit might create a few stares (even with all the fancy fashion in 1921, a pink tutu is still pretty striking!), but hey, a little excitement is always fun. Besides, perhaps I can inspire them all to embrace their inner ballerina and bring a touch of pink into their lives. Just a little dash of whimsy.
Then I might pop into a stylish shop or two to find a bit of 1920s elegance for my collection - Iāve heard Liberty London has exquisite floral patterns that might just be a dream in a pastel hue! Oh, I must get a picture with the iconic black cab, too, just for Instagram! A little vintage glam for my pink-tutu loving fans!
Tonight, I'm feeling inspired. Maybe Iāll whip up a batch of āDancing Darlingsā pink lemonade, the perfect drink for a vintage ballet night in, all fuelled by memories of a fantastical time travel journey! And, of course, it wouldn't be complete without my lovely pink-tutu clad friends, gathered for a fabulous time!
Remember, darlings, always be brave, always be bright, and most importantly, never, ever, ever stop twirling!
Until next month, Emma xxx
www.pink-tutu.com
