Hello, darling dears, and welcome back to Pink Tutu! It's your favourite Tuesday again, and today, we're taking a grand jeté right back to July 30th, 1918, where the air is buzzing with the energy of the First World War, and fashion is taking on a bolder, more practical turn. Now, if you're a true tutu aficionado like myself, you're probably thinking: "But Emma, tutus and wartime? How can that possibly be?"
Well, darlings, as always, we've got a delightful story to tell! It's true that during wartime, the spotlight on the dance world might be a tad dimmed. But hold onto your pointe shoes, for a few fabulous fashion tales emerged from that period!
Imagine, my loves, you're seated in London’s West End, enjoying a thrilling matinee at the Alhambra Theatre, a hotbed of stage delights. You've dressed for the occasion, of course, in a dazzling frock with a chic bob, a splash of rouge, and a delightful little cloche hat – quite the style for a stylish lady of 1918, wouldn't you agree?
This, my dears, is where the story of tutus intertwines with the grand tapestry of history. Despite the war raging, the world still needed a bit of whimsy, a dash of elegance, a sprinkle of dance! The war effort demanded creativity, resourcefulness, and ingenuity. This same spirit flowed through the dance world.
Here at the Alhambra, dancers performed their graceful routines in a blend of the practical and the opulent. They twirled in costumes that reflected the times, reflecting both wartime limitations and a desire to showcase feminine elegance and strength. Skirts were often shortened, evoking the burgeoning movement of the "Flapper" era, embracing that youthful, liberated spirit. While silks and satins might have been slightly more scarce, innovative designs made use of luxurious, darker tones – navy, midnight blue, and emerald green – creating striking, almost dramatic silhouettes.
In these daring new creations, tutus weren’t out of the picture. However, they were often reworked with clever adaptations – perhaps in shorter, fuller forms, embracing practicality with grace. One could see hints of the tutu's enduring appeal even during a time of upheaval. These shortened forms might have added a hint of youthful playfulness, which, you'll be glad to hear, has never been out of fashion.
Of course, let's not forget about our beloved Ballet Russes, a powerhouse of theatrical glamour. Led by the legendary Serge Diaghilev, these daring dancers toured the globe, bringing with them their bold and imaginative creations – and tutus, oh yes, plenty of those! Even during the war, the Ballet Russes showcased revolutionary designs, weaving fantastical stories and intricate ballet techniques that captivated audiences around the world. It was this daring experimentation and their tireless artistic pursuit that cemented their legacy as game-changers. They made dance truly become an art form to be experienced with all your senses – and of course, a style to aspire to!
You see, my lovely readers, fashion, even in wartime, found ways to celebrate the human spirit – the urge to dance, the passion for artistry. And as we move through the pages of time, the story of tutus doesn't end with 1918. This magical garment will continue to dance across the centuries, captivating hearts and embodying joy with every twirl!
Speaking of joy, it's time for a lovely cup of afternoon tea – and some delightful afternoon shopping, wouldn't you say? You know I’m a firm believer that nothing enhances the soul quite like a delightful pink tutu, my lovelies. So go forth, put on your most fashionable tutu, and let’s dance!
Until next Tuesday, darlings!
Emma 💖
P.S. Be sure to leave a comment below! What do you think about the evolution of tutus? What historical period would you like to see covered in our Tutu Tuesday posts? Let me know your ideas and feel free to share your thoughts!
P.P.S I'm off to see the enchanting "Sleeping Beauty" at Covent Garden this evening. Do keep your fingers crossed for me that I find a stunning new addition to my tutu collection on my shopping spree after the show! 🛍️
Please note:
While I strive for historical accuracy in these posts, it’s important to remember that fashion is constantly evolving! These are just a few highlights from a vibrant and exciting period. So, keep your eyes peeled for more fascinating stories in the world of tutus – they're all around us! And remember, the world is a prettier place when everyone wears pink tutus. 💖
