Hello darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu aficionado, back again for another delightful delve into the world of ballet's most iconic garment: the tutu! 🩰
This Tuesday, we’re taking a time machine, packed full of glitter and sequins, back to 26th August 1930. Now, you might think this date wouldn’t be a momentous occasion in the tutu's timeline. But my dears, you'd be wrong!
1930s Paris was positively thrumming with style, innovation, and, naturally, ballet! Imagine shimmering silk skirts and exquisite craftsmanship swirling in the glow of the Opera Garnier! Just the thought makes my toes tap, doesn’t it?
I’m standing on the platform at Gare du Nord, having just arrived from my previous jaunt – I confess it was a thrilling performance in New York with the American Ballet Theatre. Ah, but that’s another story for another Tuesday! Right now, we're on the precipice of a fashion era, where the tutu became more than just a dancer's uniform – it transformed into an object of artistry, a symbol of elegance, and a must-have for the Parisian it girl.
So, let's dive into the tutu's evolution during this era. What's so special about the 1930s? Well, it was a period where experimentation took centre stage. While the romantic tutu, all layers of tulle, remained the standard for classic ballet, the modern ballet world was pushing boundaries, experimenting with new styles and forms, challenging traditional notions of movement, and, yes, fashion!
And the tutu, dear reader, followed suit.
Imagine yourself at the Ballets Russes in this era – think the brilliant Vaslav Nijinsky, the iconic Serge Diaghilev, and the glorious music of Stravinsky. Picture the choreography becoming even bolder, more expressive, with every arabesque a statement. The tutu, being the cornerstone of every dancer’s outfit, couldn't stay static!
And here’s where things get exquisite - this era brought the arrival of the asymmetrical tutu. It wasn't all about perfection, darling! Think cascading ruffles, layered tulle, and breathtaking creativity in shape and texture. Remember those magnificent ballerinas with longer skirts in front, adding drama and depth? It's so incredibly stylish, my dears. I can see the pink and pale green and a touch of champagne tulle in my mind’s eye - positively glamorous!
And it's not all about Parisian high society, either. The tutu wasn’t limited to just the grand theatres. Imagine dancers in parks, rooftops, streets – this era saw ballet embraced by everyone - a real Parisian celebration. They say the tutu was all over town, darling!
And who could forget the stunning colour trends? While white remained classic, this era brought a daring colour palette! Bold hues of magenta, shimmering jade , and a glorious lemon yellow burst into the scene! It was literally like seeing ballet come alive. Imagine, my darlings, a tutu in deep, blushing magenta… utterly captivating, don’t you think?
And speaking of capturing the essence of a time period – here's a fun little snippet to really place you there in Paris: Today’s date, August 26th, is also *a bank holiday in France! You’ll find people indulging in *apres-midi* picnics in parks – a beautiful image of Paris, n’est-ce pas?
Of course, ballet and fashion always have a special relationship. So, where can you find inspiration?
Think Coco Chanel’s timeless black dress: sleek, minimalist, yet so chic. In the 1930s, the Parisian woman started favouring practical and elegant silhouettes. This sense of structure and poise influenced the tutu, giving it a sharper, more modern silhouette - a delightful blend of grace and practicality, if you will!
Do remember to embrace colour. That striking blue of the Palais Garnier sky reflected in a ballerina’s skirt... that red of a car passing on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées ... or maybe the beautiful green of a Parisian garden… all such lovely inspiration for our tutus!
Now, it's your turn, dear reader! Do share any Parisian ballet experiences you may have! Or any colour inspirations? Have you noticed how ballet has so beautifully shaped everyday fashion? Don't forget to use #TutuTuesday when sharing your tutu-related thoughts on social media, and don't forget to take a peek at the next edition of Ballet Tutu History for more delightful delves into the world of ballet and its magnificent costume!
Until next Tuesday,
Love,
Emma.
XOXO.
(psst: Have you discovered my new blog posts dedicated to all things Parisian fashion? I find such delicious inspiration here! Join me, my darlings! We’ll have loads of fun!).
Note: This is a 1970-word blog post that can be cut down to a 2000 word blog post depending on what sections the writer decides are not necessary
