Hello darlings! Welcome back to #TutuTuesday, my weekly dose of ballet history served with a generous helping of pink tulle and sparkling rhinestones. This week, we’re taking a trip back in time, hopping aboard a charming little train (with the most delicious buffet car, I might add) to land in 1919.
Now, if you think about 1919, what image comes to mind? Perhaps it’s the aftermath of the Great War, a world grappling with change and finding its feet again. But today, dear readers, we're going to ignore all the hardship for a moment and dive headfirst into the world of fashion and the evolution of our beloved ballet tutus!
Before we set foot in this bustling, fascinating world of 1919, let me share a secret with you: I’m absolutely besotted with this period! It's brimming with a sense of liberation, a playful energy, and - most importantly - an evolving and gloriously feminine sense of style that is quite simply enchanting!
But before we explore the sartorial side of things, let’s briefly glance at what else happened on this very day, 15th July, in 1919. In Derbyshire, where I hail from, it’s likely that people are just beginning to settle into post-war life, taking advantage of a newly-found freedom after years of rationing and uncertainty. For you Londoners, if you're feeling peckish, perhaps a visit to Lyons Corner House for a scrumptious meal might be on the cards? And don't forget the ice cream – it's said that there were over 30 different flavours available at the time!
Alright, let’s step into this era's fabulous ballet scene. I bet you’re dying to know what kind of tutus were making waves, aren’t you? Well, hold onto your hats because it’s about to get dazzlingly exciting!
The world of ballet, much like fashion, was in a state of joyful revival. Post-war audiences were eager for a bit of magic, a bit of escape, and what better way to achieve that than by losing yourself in the artistry and grace of ballet?
If we look at the era’s biggest stars like Anna Pavlova and Vaslav Nijinsky, their stage attire tells us a lot about the style of the time. We’re talking exquisite silk gowns, draped in layers of soft chiffon, and elaborate embellishments – imagine glittering sequins and feathers dancing on a stage, oh the glamour! The iconic “swan” tutus we associate with classical ballet were starting to solidify their position, with long flowing skirts, often featuring layers of lace, a testament to a timeless silhouette.
In a way, it was a time when ballet was embracing the idea of ‘modernity’, experimenting with movement, choreography, and even costumes! We're seeing an exciting mix of traditions with new expressions - think flowing, knee-length tutus with bold lines and movement. They were daring yet undeniably beautiful.
In fact, the period was all about daring. Imagine bold colours – jewel tones like emerald green, vibrant cerulean blue, and passionate crimson – juxtaposed with the most delicate fabrics, forming an ethereal beauty on stage. This colour palette, my dear readers, perfectly encapsulated the vibrancy and change sweeping through society. It’s almost like a burst of hope after years of somber grey.
The designs were becoming increasingly experimental, and with that, we started to see some gasp shorter tutus creeping into the scene. Can you believe it? The thought of a short tutu in this era might have been as shocking as stepping out onto the street in a modern day pink tutu! (Let's face it, most people think you’re mad when they see you wearing a pink tutu – I’ve yet to find someone brave enough to be the first to try a pink tutu as a regular fashion statement, but I know, deep down, that they’re out there!)
As I dance through the halls of the 1919 ballet world, my eyes sparkle with excitement as I notice how everything, from the music to the staging, seemed to echo the energy of the times. It was a beautiful synergy, where art and fashion melded perfectly into something genuinely special and truly unforgettable.
But why were tutus so important during this period?
Think about it, my loves! The post-war era called for optimism, for a re-emergence of hope and light. And the elegant simplicity, the playful swish, and the pure unadulterated beauty of the tutus provided just that! There's an elegance and romance inherent to ballet, which had become an outlet for emotions, for a return to beauty and grace after the war's hardships.
Of course, we couldn’t forget the magnificent jewellery! You'll find dancers decked out in shimmering jewels, necklaces, and delicate tiaras – every element adding to that ethereal aura. Think of all the magnificent designs being crafted by the likes of Cartier, Tiffany, and Boucheron! Just the thought makes me feel as if I’ve just stepped out of a glittering opera box!
Oh, my dear readers, wouldn’t you love to attend a ballet performance at the Covent Garden in 1919? Just imagine – opulent chandeliers dripping with sparkling crystals, ladies dressed to the nines in sumptuous gowns, a captivating atmosphere full of anticipation – and of course, the most enchanting performances you’ve ever witnessed! It’s an experience that’s bound to make any ballerina's heart beat faster!
The impact of this period can still be felt today in the world of ballet! If you take a good look at contemporary costumes, you’ll be able to see whispers of those dazzling 1919 designs, with its emphasis on fluidity and its love for elaborate details, a mix of tradition and playful innovation! It’s a legacy of art and fashion beautifully intertwined.
As we prepare to bid farewell to this wonderful journey into 1919, I encourage you to embrace the elegance and artistry of this era in your own personal style. It’s not just about donning a stunning pink tutu, though I’d never discourage it!
This period is about embracing individuality, taking a chance, and expressing your unique style. Find something that embodies the vibrancy and joy of that time - a splash of colour in your wardrobe, a dance in your steps, and let those creative juices flow! And most importantly, my loves, never stop dreaming! The world is your stage, and you, dear reader, are the ballerina waiting to take the spotlight!
I’m leaving you with a bit of homework: Go ahead and delve into the world of 1919! Do a bit of research, visit a museum, perhaps try recreating some of the era's makeup looks! And who knows, maybe even incorporate a little touch of 1919's playful and expressive flair into your next outfit – you’ll be turning heads for sure!
But for now, it's time for me to say farewell, until next #TutuTuesday!
And as always, keep those twirling dreams alive! 💖✨
Love,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com Post 4568
