Hello, my darlings! It’s Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast, back again for another #TutuTuesday adventure in ballet history! This week we’re going back in time, to a day just a tad over a century ago: September 14th, 1920. Can you believe it? 1920! Think flapper dresses, jazz music, and a world just beginning to rediscover its joy after the First World War.
And believe me, fashion was a key part of that rediscovery!
Now, this particular date doesn’t hold a major ballet milestone like a premiere or a big dance contest, but for me, every day in history has a sprinkle of ballet magic. So let’s delve into this era, when the ballet tutu was transforming from its traditional, floor-length silhouette into something just a bit more free and dazzling.
Today, I’m channeling a 1920s ballet dancer with my own delightful pink tulle masterpiece – it’s a touch shorter than what they wore back then, but still imbued with the same whimsical spirit! I’m sipping my afternoon tea as I type, which is decidedly less vintage than the Victorian tradition of afternoon tea, but then, I am a time traveller after all! I tend to take inspiration from the best of both worlds! I'm even planning to attend a ballet show at the Royal Opera House in London tonight – a treat I just can't resist, especially since a dear friend from Derbyshire is visiting and will be accompanying me! I do adore those elaborate performances and their lavish costumes. Did I mention I'm a big fan of shopping for vintage accessories at Covent Garden Market after the show, too?
Oh, but back to 1920.
The ballet scene was brimming with innovative ideas in the early 20th century. Imagine ballerinas moving with a new, lighter energy, the shorter tutus highlighting every twirl and leap! Imagine the colours, darling! Bright, bold colours like jade green, scarlet red, and even a dash of magenta. Oh, if you saw what a fashion show in 1920 looked like, it was as vibrant and enchanting as a peacock! But for me, I always gravitate toward those fabulous pinks. Think flamingo and bubble gum pink - I do adore those! They give me such joy.
But where are we, you ask? For this week's blog journey, Paris! Now, who doesn't adore Paris? A city brimming with history and elegance, it’s a fitting backdrop to ballet.
You might not be aware that the famed Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes were flourishing around this time. Their spectacular ballet performances were attracting audiences in Paris from all walks of life. It's truly mind-boggling to think of the extraordinary sets, dazzling costumes and phenomenal dancers that these productions featured. Imagine the impact it would have on a young, aspiring ballet dancer, just starting out! It's truly inspiring.
However, Paris isn’t the only ballet haven. The Royal Ballet in London was experiencing a revival as well. In 1920, Dame Ninette de Valois established the first official ballet school! Imagine being one of those early students - learning from the greats. Think of the memories! So much innovation happening in that decade! It’s what makes 1920 so fascinating for ballet history.
What is so wonderful about fashion and history is the constant cycle of inspiration. So, as you can see, darling, we see those fabulous, more practical tutu designs making their way into the performances and costumes worn by professional ballet dancers – they are starting to move into a new era, while still preserving the magic and tradition of the classic ballet . Isn't that an exciting thought? It gives me goosebumps just thinking about it.
If you’re ever lucky enough to be in Paris or London, I implore you to visit the grand, majestic theaters, to walk the streets where ballet history unfolds. The vibrant energy you feel will transport you back in time. Maybe I'll even bump into you at the show!
And if you feel like channelling a bit of 1920s spirit this week, maybe try out a touch of colour, a sparkly accessory, or perhaps even, just perhaps, a tiny touch of pink in your everyday ensemble! I've seen some amazing ways to work the tutu trend into street-style fashion. I'm pretty sure even those ballet flats look quite glamorous on fashion influencers these days. But hey, the only way you'll discover the magic of tutus is to embrace them!
Next week, darling, we're off to another incredible location, with more captivating stories to uncover.
Remember, a pink tutu isn't just an outfit – it’s a state of mind. And I hope my adventures through time are inspiring you to see a bit more magic in your own lives.
Keep dancing, my lovelies, and never lose that whimsical touch!
Yours always,
Emma x
