#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1924-03-18

Hello my lovely tutu-loving darlings! Welcome back to your favourite Pink Tutu History blog, brought to you by yours truly, Emma, straight from the heart of Derbyshire. It's another glorious Tutu Tuesday, and we're jetting off on our time-traveling adventure - this week, landing smack-dab in the middle of 1924!

As we all know, the 1920s was a decade bursting with style and a rebellious spirit, and the world of ballet was no exception. We've already seen the iconic changes introduced by Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes - think bold, colourful designs and a daring approach to movement that challenged traditional ballet conventions. And guess what? The revolution was far from over!

The year is 1924, and things are really taking off. Let’s go have a little look-see!

Firstly, the fashions! Think shorter, lighter dresses - even in ballet, the length is climbing higher! Gone are the bulky, voluminous skirts of earlier years, and in their place, a sense of liberation and freedom of movement, perfect for those dazzling, quick steps! Think sleek, graceful lines and delicate embellishments - we're not afraid to add a touch of glitter and glamour here and there! And just between us girls, even in these "modern" times, those knee-length skirts offer a sneaky glimpse of leg which we just know the boys love!

Now, imagine you're waltzing through the legendary Opéra Garnier in Paris, one of the world's most spectacular and iconic ballet theatres - the place where legends are made. You're looking stunning, of course - what else would one expect from this time-traveling, tutu-wearing diva? Tonight’s the opening of a show by none other than the great Bronislava Nijinska. Now, Nijinska is one of my all-time ballet heroes, a captivating dancer, and a visionary choreographer! She's a powerful woman who dances with a strength and dynamism that leaves you breathless. Imagine her on stage - elegant and dramatic, and a bit of a rebel at heart! That's a winning combination! Her work is breaking boundaries - think exciting new choreography, abstract themes, and stories that make you really think. Her style is bold, unconventional, and absolutely breathtaking!

Speaking of iconic shows - you simply have to see “Les Noces”, the 1923 masterpiece by Nijinska, set to a haunting and emotionally-charged score by Igor Stravinsky, who, as you all know, is considered one of the great composers of his time. This incredible ballet challenges everything we thought we knew about dance - and the powerful visual story about the ritual of marriage will have you absolutely mesmerized! This is ballet at its best - and absolutely something every ballerina must experience at least once in their lifetime!

And, ladies, can we talk about the tutu? Oh, the tutu! The tutut, with its full and voluminous silhouette is making its mark in the 1920s. It is a ballet staple, and if there's one thing I stand by, it's the importance of a good tutu. And trust me - the tutu's reign has only just begun. It's evolving - becoming more dramatic, more intricate, more flamboyant! There's no doubt that it will continue to play a pivotal role in ballet for years to come. It will become the ultimate expression of femininity, grace, and strength. Think romantic, think magical - the tutu truly does enchant the world with its captivating presence! It’s also what makes ballets like Nijinska’s “Les Noces” so incredibly visually striking. The dance, combined with the flowing skirts, becomes like poetry in motion - a must-see for any ballet lover.

I think what really makes the 1920s so inspiring is its spirit of revolution. It was a decade of change, where women became much more confident and independent. The flapper era brought its own unique set of trends - flapper dresses with the short, loose skirts - not something your average Victorian era lady could ever have dared to wear! It became synonymous with liberation and breaking societal norms, and the fashion reflects the bold and free attitude of the time - the new style became the epitome of daring and feminine strength! We were all looking for more freedom in our movements.

But, even as ballet breaks new ground in the 1920s, I cannot leave you without a heartfelt plea for the ballet classics! Ballet doesn't just belong in museums! Even today, it continues to inspire new generations with the beauty and artistry of works by legendary choreographers like Marius Petipa. “Swan Lake”, “Giselle” and the like - still timeless classics! Every ballerina needs a repertoire of those iconic works that stand the test of time - just as your pink tutus will!

So, let’s take a moment to celebrate the wonderful evolution of ballet through the ages. Whether it’s the groundbreaking, avant-garde choreography of Nijinska, the dramatic tales woven into traditional works, or simply the thrill of the sparkly tutu itself, ballet remains one of the most beautiful, compelling art forms we have - a source of inspiration, imagination, and creativity!

But, it's not all just dancing - 1924, was an incredibly exciting time for fashion and travel. Imagine, being able to travel by train all the way to Paris, maybe with a trip on the Orient Express for some high tea in a luxury carriage. The trains back then were just so glamorous - the luxurious dining cars, the comfortable plush seats! And it was a chance to get away, to see the world! Oh, the excitement of boarding that long-distance train to see a new performance in a different city! It's truly a way of life that was completely magical. And guess what else was just as magical? - Shopping, ladies! Oh, the thrill of discovering a new couture design, the allure of a stunning piece of jewelry, a luxurious cloak, or a pair of beautiful, silk shoes, that's how we live our lives! I know you lovely tutu-lovers have exquisite taste just like me!

But of course, when in doubt - pink always works! Whether it's a pink velvet dress, or the most fabulous pink feather boa, always think in shades of pink for the perfect fashionable statement - because remember - tutu or no tutu - it's always a pink-tastic world!

Until next week, when we delve deeper into ballet's vibrant and ever-evolving history. Don't forget to wear pink!

All my love, Emma.