Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here, ready to whisk you back in time to the glorious world of tutus in 1929! It's #TutuTuesday and this week we're waltzing through the glittering age of flappers and the beginnings of a ballet revolution.
I know what you're thinking, “Emma, tutus? In 1929? Surely not!” Well, buckle up, lovelies, because you’re in for a treat. While tutus were far from the dominant dancewear they are today, 1929 saw some fascinating shifts in ballet’s evolution. Think of it as a ballet caterpillar getting ready for its dramatic transformation into a magnificent tutu butterfly!
Let’s get those imaginary time machine gears turning! As we step back to the roaring 1920s, think of Paris as the ballet capital. Paris is bursting with Parisian fashion, brimming with an aura of sophisticated grace. Here, we find ballerinas starting to break free from the rigid constraints of classical tutus, moving towards a more modern, streamlined silhouette. Imagine silks cascading down their figures, hinting at a new era of dance freedom. It's just utterly divine!
On this very date in 1929, April 23rd, something very special happened: the premiere of a ballet called “The Firebird”. 💥 Imagine vibrant reds and blazing oranges exploding across the stage, with the tutu being a key feature, transforming the image of the ballet dancer in a vibrant, almost magical, way. Can you imagine? It’s enough to make a ballerina's heart flutter, wouldn't you say? The music alone will whisk you back in time.
What were the ladies of the ballet wearing in those days? Think long, flowing skirts, adorned with tiers of tulle that shimmered under the stage lights. The shapes were still pretty long, almost like graceful bell bottoms. And colours? Think of deep plums, midnight blues, and maybe even a touch of emerald green – colours that shimmer like gems against the stark light. Think more "ball gown" elegance than "classical pointe shoe" sleekness.
As always, fashion and ballet go hand-in-hand like a perfect pirouette. In the 1920s, it was all about “flapper” style. Now, we all know I have a thing for the gorgeous frocks from the 20s. (A tutu-loving ballerina with an eye for vintage is always looking out for new treasures to add to her collection.) That iconic bob hairstyle? Sooo stylish! And those glamorous knee-length dresses with fringes and beads? Divine, darling! And let’s not forget those adorable, delicate little cloche hats. These fashions had their influences, you see. The ballerina's flowing dresses weren't so very different! The fashion influence goes both ways, divine darling!
Back then, tutus weren’t quite as widely known as they are now, not quite the same as the Ballet-tastic image we have now of a princess-perfect, puffy, ballerina style. Remember though, my lovelies, history is full of amazing evolutions! Think back to a time when ballerina gowns resembled more of a floaty ball gown – perfectly acceptable back then, But things change! Imagine what might be coming next! I adore imagining the new fashions that might come to inspire the ballet!
Did I mention I was in Paris this week? It was bliss! The air was dripping in that enchanting Gallic chic and of course, no visit to the City of Lights would be complete without a pilgrimage to the glorious Garnier Opera House. It’s simply divine. Such a treat!
And I couldn't leave without a little detour to the fabulous shopping streets! Paris never fails to leave me swooning with its dazzling clothes boutiques! Oh, my darlings, I found some utterly divine fabrics, all ready for my next Tutu Tuesday blog. The possibilities for inspiration are endless! Think vibrant silk, lustrous lace, oh and even some shimmering sequins to capture that special something for our upcoming posts.
You know what, it’s a bit like being in the world of "Belle Epoque" – where things are always in constant motion, where creativity abounds, and elegance is truly appreciated! I must dash now! Another magical trip is waiting in my time travel satchel – my ticket to the past will always be a good ballet performance!
Until next Tuesday darlings, wear those pink tutus with pride, and remember, life's a beautiful, colourful dance! 🩰💗
With love,
Emma xx
P.S. Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for all your Tutu Tuesday needs! And follow us on Instagram @pink_tutu for a sprinkle of extra fashion inspiration! 💋
