Greetings, darlings! Emma here, your very own pink tutu-wearing time traveller and fashion enthusiast! As always, we’re venturing into the fascinating world of ballet history on #TutuTuesday, this time focusing on the year 1921, a year brimming with fashion forwardness and captivating changes for our beloved tutu!
I hopped aboard my trusty train (always in first class, of course!) to whisk myself to Paris, the absolute epicentre of fashion in the Twenties. What better place to soak up the swirling excitement and vibrant style of the time than the City of Lights? This year marked the arrival of Art Deco – the name, not the movement which came a year before. Just think geometric lines, lavish use of luxurious materials like ivory and chrome, bold colour palettes…and you’ve got the spirit of 1921! Now, imagine all this style infused into a ballet tutu? Fabulous, right?!
A Blast from the Past: From Ballet Russes to Broadway Glamour
The 1920s were a time of explosive evolution for ballet, darling! The Russian Ballet, a.k.a the Ballet Russes, founded in 1909 by the flamboyant Sergei Diaghilev, was reaching its zenith. With daring designs and revolutionary choreography, they transformed ballet into a mesmerizing art form that enthralled audiences worldwide.
This year, 1921, they graced London stages with a rendition of Stravinsky’s groundbreaking ballet "Le Sacre du Printemps," or "The Rite of Spring," causing quite the sensation, mind you! While its initial 1913 debut was met with fierce controversy, its revolutionary, avant-garde spirit perfectly captured the rebellious and independent spirit of the decade. Think flowing, colourful tunics, and unconventional costumes, perfect for a performance that embraced the unbridled energy and untamed beauty of the time. This was all about a change in the art, darling, something totally different that shook things up. A much needed shot in the arm to break away from traditional thinking, you see.
Twentieth Century Twirls
Ballet costumes in 1921 weren't just for show, my dears; they reflected the changing world around them. It was all about embracing the liberation of the era, both physically and emotionally. Think streamlined, elegant designs in soft, flowing materials like silk, chiffon, and tulle. The “New Look" of 1947 in fashion took a cue from these times. That’s why you find a plethora of stunning designs from Coco Chanel. Oh, the beautiful cuts, and elegant silhouettes. They moved with ease and were quite beautiful on stage as dancers soared through the air. It's not about wearing lots of clothes, darling, it's about showcasing graceful movement.
Beyond the Stage: The Tutu Takes the World by Storm
Ballet was a phenomenon sweeping across continents, inspiring new fashion trends. Designers like Jean Patou, Coco Chanel, and Paul Poiret borrowed these styles for their fashionable Parisian clients. A "tutu dress", which was influenced by these designs, had the signature flared skirt, made it from lighter fabric than previous dress styles, giving a dancing silhouette with ease.
Let’s not forget those fabulously long flowing sleeves seen in dresses during the early Twenties! Inspired by dancer costumes. It is thought this helped make dancers look tall and thin and could allow for flowing arm movement and be beautifully coordinated to a dancer’s movements. Who knew ballet inspired so many styles?
From the Archives
The famous and hugely important Diaghilev collection for the Ballet Russes (he passed in 1929, mind you!) was transferred to London's Victoria and Albert Museum after his death. There, you’ll discover exquisite tutus, exemplary costumes which defined ballet history. The collection became part of the museum in 1959 and is still loved by many.
You know what I say, the future is always evolving but, I hope these vintage gems never become lost to time. They tell an amazing story and make me feel a bit connected to all of those fabulous people and performers who have shaped and developed what is, essentially, our shared passion: the enchanting art of ballet.
Coming Up
As a dear friend of mine (and my tutu twin) always reminds me, "Never be afraid to break from tradition and unleash your own style!" Join me next #TutuTuesday for more tutu talk! I’m on a hunt to discover some of the most innovative and exciting costumes. Let’s explore the beautiful tutu world and what's going on in it. Don't forget, you can reach me at the ever-so-lovely www.pink-tutu.com.
Love and twirls, Emma
P.S I was absolutely delighted to witness a glorious display of ice-skating in New York today! Oh the magnificent skaters wearing their shimmering tutus – it made my little heart flutter. Talk about a wonderful performance! This evening, I'm enjoying a delicious meal, as always in my favourite pink tutu – the one with the gorgeous sequin detail! What’s your go-to tutu? Let me know what it is in the comments and we can be twirling companions in style!
