Hello, darlings!
It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back with another instalment of my Ballet Tutu History blog. Today's journey takes us right back to 15th May 1928 - an exciting time in the world of fashion and ballet, you'll see!
I’ve just hopped off the Orient Express – wouldn’t you know it, there were some absolutely divine dresses on the train! All those clever designers in Paris are really getting into the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Those flapper dresses are all the rage – they’re so chic, so modern, with the daring drop waists and the fringe that sways with every move. Makes me want to twirl! And as always, London is always just a little bit behind when it comes to trends – but I am always happy to see that fashion magazines in both London and New York have picked up on how ballet dancers are pushing the envelope on feminine fashion and influencing the way women want to dress, from short, short skirts to flowing gowns. It's all about showing off a little leg!
Speaking of fashion, just yesterday, I went to the Royal Opera House to see Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes. Oh, it was a simply stunning production! Their performance was positively electric – all the flair of those daring costumes, all the exquisite moves and lifts. And of course, I couldn’t take my eyes off the magnificent costumes, with their swirling fabrics and vibrant colours.
Now, a word about those costumes: they may have looked simple – think short, flowing skirts and tops with daringly revealing cuts – but there was actually an artistry to it, an intricate use of layers, textures and colour combinations that are almost too much to imagine these days! This is a perfect example of ballet as art and how costumes have moved from simple, single-tone dance wear into true statements. And of course, these short skirts allowed the ballet dancers to display their legs – which in turn fuelled the modern fascination with leggy ladies and a ‘dancing’ femininity.
Speaking of skirts, tutus haven’t gone the way of the flapper dresses yet – they're not entirely out of fashion – you still find ballerinas with tutus for classical performances. But my heart belongs to the newer, more playful designs and for my own performances in London’s theatre district, I find myself choosing tutus that aren't so strictly classical but something much more…modern! Let's say, for a little evening ballet (I shall be trying out the ‘cabaret-ballet’ show in London at the end of the month - so thrilling!) I love a skirt that swishes, with lots of fabric and maybe a little sequin. The more glittery the better, you know what I mean? Just look at my favourite outfit today. My amazing pink satin tutu! I have to admit, when it comes to ballet, pink has always held a special place in my heart. And the silk, so soft against my skin… divine! This is, after all, about dance and fantasy. Who doesn't want to feel a bit magical when they are dancing, right?
It's times like this that make me want to don my tutu and take to the stage! After all, who could resist a little Tutu Tuesday on such a glamorous date? I can’t wait to share my next travel tale, but for now, remember: keep shining, keep twirling, and most importantly, wear your tutu with pride.
Catch you next week, lovelies!
Emma xoxo
P.S. You know you want to dress up in your own tutu too! Make it a special Tutu Tuesday by visiting www.pink-tutu.com where you’ll find lots of inspirational tutu styles! There’s nothing quite like a pink tutu for a day of celebrating the beauty and elegance of dance – a truly inspiring choice! Make your day even more amazing with your very own tutu – just in time for a dance party, maybe a spot of Tutu Tuesday shopping with your best friend… the possibilities are endless!
P.P.S. Speaking of possibilities! I might have a special surprise for you next Tuesday… you’ll have to tune in to find out! xoxoxo
