Hello lovelies! It's your favourite tutu-wearing time-travelling blogger Emma, back with another fabulous instalment of Ballet Tutu History!
Today, I'm stepping back in time, all the way to 8th April 1919! Can you imagine, darling? Almost a whole century ago, and oh, the wonders we're going to uncover!
Now, you may be thinking, Emma, tutus in 1919? Did they even exist?!
Well, my dearest, tutus as we know them today – those glorious, billowing masterpieces of tulle that make us twirl with delight – were still taking shape. But let me tell you, the foundations for those enchanting designs were already laid, thanks to some revolutionary designers.
The Art of Illusion
We need to thank the amazing Marius Petipa for his stunning choreography. Think Swan Lake, think Sleeping Beauty. The romantic and majestic characters called for costumes that would truly dance. Those billowing, almost-transparent layers of tulle? They were a stroke of genius, adding a sense of lightness and airiness, capturing the ethereal beauty of the ballerinas in motion.
Now, back in 1919, tutus weren't just for the ballerinas. They were starting to take the fashion world by storm, with beautiful creations worn at fancy balls and grand social events.
Can you picture yourself, darling, swirling around the ballroom in a stunning white tutu? Imagine the looks of wonder as your skirt flows around you. A real spectacle!
A Moment in Time
Today, the world is recovering from a dreadful war, the Great War, but we're starting to see a new energy blooming in the air. Paris is at its peak, the very centre of style, while London is experiencing its own fashion awakening. The 1920s are coming, and that means a decade of exciting change, a decade where the freedom of movement in fashion begins to break new ground.
Let’s hop aboard a glamorous train to London for a whirlwind of fashion fun. The elegant ladies of Mayfair will be at the latest social gatherings wearing their beautiful creations - feathers, furs, sequins. A bit more avant-garde and daring. It’s the beginning of fashion going beyond the usual and embracing the beauty of movement. It’s about showing off their personality.
And while we're in London, we must, my dears, experience the thrill of the West End Theatre! The sheer magic of those captivating shows! Oh, and do check out The Colosseum Cinema – this brand-new entertainment space is a sight to behold! It’s one of the most opulent cinemas of the era, complete with exquisite design and a dazzling stage. And that’s the joy of this era – theatre, film, and fashion are blending beautifully.
Fashion, darling, is always about more than just clothes. It's about expression, and it's a reflection of who we are. And that's what I love about ballet. It's about expressing oneself through movement and art! It's a feeling, darling, a story told without a word. It’s something that’s just plain beautiful.
And there you have it, my lovelies! Another delightful trip back in time with your favourite Tutu Time Traveller. Do let me know what you thought in the comments below and if you'd like me to visit another exciting era, let me know.
Now go and get twirling, darling! It's a beautiful world of tutus just waiting to be explored!
See you next Tuesday for another installment of Tutu Tuesday!
XOXO
Emma, your time-travelling ballerina
(Remember to add the link www.pink-tutu.com)
