Hello, darling tutu lovers! Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-wearing, time-travelling ballet enthusiast, ready to whisk you away on another historical journey!
This Tuesday, my fellow tutu-philes, we're stepping back in time to the 16th of December 1919. Can you imagine a world without the magic of a tutu? Well, in 1919, the tutu was already a symbol of elegance and artistry, although its evolution is a tale as fascinating as the steps of a pas de deux.
My latest trip took me to London, where I spent a day in a delightful haze of the glittering Edwardian era. Now, don't imagine it was all frills and frocks! 1919 was a year of change. The Great War had just ended, but the excitement and thrill of freedom vibrated through the streets. You could practically feel it in the air!
The London I saw buzzed with creativity, especially in the world of theatre and ballet. Theatres were abuzz with anticipation as they awaited the premieres of brand new productions, like The Sleeping Beauty, which just got a whole new interpretation by the London Coliseum.
Oh, my dears, it was simply divine! I practically fainted when I caught a glimpse of the ballerina in a frothy, white tulle tutu - her swirling movements just mesmerizing. I had to try on a similar piece from a little shop around the corner – can’t believe how good a 1919-style tutu looked on me! I nearly purchased it too, but I held off, just this time, and decided to look at some of the gorgeous beaded evening gowns on offer in Harrods instead. You can’t deny the charm of those sequins!
What really got me buzzing was seeing how different ballet styles were coming together to create truly stunning visuals. Think of it like a delicate floral bouquet - some flowers stand tall and stately, while others are short and sweet. The different styles, even in 1919, reflected the changing tastes of the world. I noticed some tutus were just so simple – soft flowing pieces, perhaps inspired by Greek statues - then some had a wonderful puffiness to them, that gave them a truly “swirling” look - and my absolute favourites - the little beaded trims and feather adornments. Oh my, they truly were delightful!
Speaking of which, it was utterly divine to find the first official London shop devoted entirely to ballerina supplies, complete with tutus, shoes, ribbons and of course, the finest velvet for the prettiest little pouches. My dears, it was sheer enchantment, an Aladdin's cave of ballerina delight. You must know that the cost of even one of those simple, flowing tutus back then could buy you enough fabric to make two or three whole outfits for a less-fortunate woman. This was real artistry and dedication!
As a proper London day out, we can't leave without mention of the tea. I indulged in a sumptuous afternoon tea, of course, with an impeccable selection of delicate sandwiches and melt-in-your-mouth pastries. The delicious aromas of scones and cakes, washed down with cups of the finest Earl Grey, added the perfect finishing touch to my 1919 experience. Did I mention they were having some of the best Victoria sponges you ever saw at the café right opposite the National Gallery? Oh my dears!
The day I spent in 1919, you know, brought home the point - dancing is about expressing joy, sharing emotion, and of course, being fabulous. From the grand, graceful performances on the grand stage, to the simpler styles in small theatre productions - a tutu isn’t just a piece of clothing, darling. It is an invitation, a journey to a world where dreams dance on the air, where hearts leap with every turn. And remember - pink tutus are simply the best!
I’m heading to 1940s London for next week’s post, darling! It’s gonna be divine - stay tuned! Don't forget to check in at www.pink-tutu.com and spread the love by sharing #TutuTuesday!
Till next time, dear ones, Emma, XOXO
