Hello, darlings! Welcome back to another #TutuTuesday, where we waltz through time, discovering the magnificent history of the tutu! Today, we're taking a trip back to the roaring 20s, landing smack bang in the middle of October 19th, 1926!
Oh my, imagine the jazz music, the flapper dresses, the exciting energy that filled the air! The world was in the midst of a dance craze, and Paris was the undisputed capital of fashion.
A Fashionable History
As you can imagine, fashion in the 20s had its own kind of je ne sais quoi. Think sleek, flowing silhouettes, short, beaded dresses and headbands, lots of fringes and sparkle! And don't forget the shoes – dainty little slippers and silk pumps, often paired with sparkly socks – pure fashionista heaven!
For a little trip down memory lane, think of those glamorous photos of Josephine Baker in her extravagant outfits, or Louise Brooks with her bobbed hair and iconic style. Such iconic elegance, darling!
Backstage Beauty
Now, while the 1920s were bursting with fashion, the ballet world was evolving too, moving from the strict romantic tutus of the late 1800s towards a slightly looser silhouette, showcasing the dancers' grace and athleticism.
Imagine the tutus from that time. Still a fluffy confection of tulle, but now with a softer line. And guess what, darling? This move toward shorter, more delicate tutus actually paved the way for those famous tutus with the short, pouffy, bouffant, "balloon" shape that became popular in the 1930s and 40s – those beauties are practically made for a dazzling leap!
The Inspiration That Moves Us
Speaking of inspiration, let's chat about what was happening on the dance floor back in October 19th, 1926! Just imagine the joy of a performance of Swan Lake in that era, with its dreamy, romantic tale and its glorious, white tutu-clad Swan Queen. I'm getting shivers just thinking about it!
Or, imagine the excitement of catching the first-ever performance of Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes, bringing bold, colourful choreography, and breathtakingly innovative design.
But what makes me really jump for joy, is thinking about the young dancers of that time. Picture them in their classrooms, perfecting their steps, their graceful lines, the incredible coordination it takes to really understand what a tutu allows you to do. Their energy is practically infectious!
Pink Power for the People
Well, darling, I hope you enjoyed our little trip back to 1926! I must tell you, when I'm back in my own time, I'm feeling inspired. Imagine a beautiful, blush-pink tutu in that 1920s silhouette, perhaps with a touch of sparkle and a touch of lace. It'd be a true statement, wouldn't it?
And let's get this message out there - the world is a much brighter, more fun place when everyone is embracing their inner ballerina! Remember, darling, life is too short not to wear a tutu – or at least to add a dash of its spirit into your life!
Until next week, happy twirling!
Emma x
P.S. If you're loving all this Tutu History, why not head over to www.pink-tutu.com? I share new posts every week! You can also catch my performances in the grand, glittering, heart-stopping theatres of the world. (Did you know I use my ballet winnings to fund my travels? My time machine needs to eat, you know! ) And let me know what you're wearing on your own tutu journey! 💖 #PinkTutu #BalletHistory #TutuTimeTraveling #BalletDreams #EmbraceYourInnerBallerina
