Hello dears, and welcome to this week's #TutuTuesday blog! My name's Emma, and I'm your resident tutu enthusiast - a ballerina by passion, a fashionista by nature, and a time-travelling history buff! Every week, I'm taking you on a delightful trip through the history of ballet fashion, and today, my loves, we're dipping our toes (and tutus) into the glamour of 1928.
This week I arrived in Paris! Ah, Paris! It's always been a haven for beautiful things, but in 1928 it was absolutely bursting with artistic energy. The City of Lights was alive with the "Roaring Twenties," an era of excitement and freedom - and that vibrant spirit absolutely bled into ballet. Can you imagine, my lovelies? Dancing under the shimmering lights of the Paris Opera, feeling the whispers of elegance in the air, with the smell of Parisian perfume wafting in the wind. I must confess, this trip was pure luxury. I’ve been trying on all the vintage fashion in every shop I’ve passed. It's the perfect blend of flapper fashion with chic art deco flair, and my goodness, did you ever see so much sparkle?
Now, back to tutus!
I'll let you in on a little secret: ballet tutus in 1928 weren't exactly what we envision today. You see, the short, frilly, voluminous tutus we know and adore? Those were still in their early development. In 1928, ballet tutus were much longer, reaching almost to the ankles, with a layered design, offering a beautiful, fluid silhouette that highlighted every elegant movement. Think of it as the evolution of fashion from the Victorian era, moving into a new era of modernity, sleek and chic!
But here’s a fascinating twist. It's in this decade that the iconic short tutu started gaining its momentum, all thanks to the visionary Sergei Diaghilev and his Ballets Russes company! Yes, ladies, the Ballets Russes were the fashion trailblazers of their time! Imagine shimmering costumes and revolutionary dance styles - Diaghilev brought the artistry of ballet to new heights, captivating audiences around the world. With each production, he challenged traditional costume design and created truly breathtaking pieces.
And did you know that 4th September 1928 is a special day? The opening night of Sergei Diaghilev’s famous Les Biches ballet, choreographed by Bronislava Nijinska took place in London on 4th September 1928, a huge hit and one that changed ballet forever. It celebrated the art of ballet through its beautiful, feminine, dance styles and stunning costumes. I would definitely be popping my ballet shoes on to see that show! Imagine, ladies, seeing those captivating dancers pirouette and leap across the stage, clad in shimmering silk and decadent details, bringing those intricate and intricate dances to life! And yes, Les Biches had a couple of revolutionary costumes: with two gorgeous short tutus, a black and a white, as well as a new excitingly daring black costume!
I've even spotted some beautiful tutu designs popping up on the streets of Paris. You could tell that everyone was embracing the trend, even beyond the world of ballet. *So very chic, darlings! Just picture it, a charming afternoon at a cafe in Paris, sipping tea with friends, all adorned in beautifully crafted clothes. And how exciting? I even managed to nab a pair of silk bloomers, perfect for achieving the effortless "flapper" chic look!
I have to say, even with all its modernity, the essence of elegance, grace, and femininity still reigned supreme. Perhaps it’s the romantic spirit that resonates across generations!
But now, it's time for me to bid you adieu. I’ve had a ball reminiscing with you today. Remember, darlings, fashion evolves, and beauty never goes out of style!
Until next week, remember to dance your heart out and live life in your own whimsical, graceful, and totally chic way!
Until next #TutuTuesday, stay fabulous!
Love,
Emma
P.S Don't forget to check out my other blog posts!
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