Hello my dearest tutu-loving friends! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina, back with another #TutuTuesday post!
This week, we're going on a journey to the vibrant and exciting year of 1931. Buckle up, darling, because this decade was all about elegance, glamour, and - you guessed it - tutues.
Now, imagine yourself stepping out onto a bustling London street, the air thick with the sweet scent of horse-drawn carriages and freshly-baked pastries. Around you, ladies in elegant frocks stroll by, their cloche hats casting intriguing shadows. And in the theatres, a new breed of dancer is captivating audiences. Think sleek lines, daring leaps, and costumes that are a dazzling ode to movement. Oh, and yes, tutus! But this wasn't your modern, voluminous fairytale princess number. 1931 was all about streamlined shapes, soft fabrics that moved beautifully, and a splash of vibrant colour.
I know you're dying to hear all about it, so let's dive into the world of ballet in 1931!
A Tutu Renaissance: New Beginnings and Flourishing Beauty
This year marks a pivotal moment for ballet, especially in the West. It's the time of the Ballets Russes - a ballet company that set the stage ablaze with its flamboyant, passionate productions. Imagine this: daring designs, incredible technical mastery, and music that made you want to twirl!
Oh, darling, I just had to witness one of their performances - imagine swirling, billowing costumes with layers of tulle that transformed the stage into a whirlwind of movement. There was a touch of whimsy, of magic, and the stories they told were simply captivating. Ballet was no longer simply an aristocratic pastime; it was a truly art form!
Now, these "Ballet Russe" ballerinas didn't necessarily wear the fluffy, full tutus we associate with ballet today. Instead, think more layered, more fluid designs, and always in shades that were just breathtakingly gorgeous.
They were the trendsetters of their time. And their impact was undeniable, spreading ballet's magic throughout Europe and sparking a resurgence in the art.
The Tutu of 1931: A Timeless Charm
Think silk and chiffon. Think strategically layered tulle with perhaps a sprinkle of sequins for a little bit of dazzling glamour. This is the world of tutus in 1931. Imagine soft hues, like blush pink or lavender, or perhaps a dash of bold blue. Think of delicate, lacey trims that add an extra touch of elegance, and a cut that makes each graceful movement a symphony of elegance.
What is particularly intriguing to me about the tutus of this time is their evolutionary approach: imagine beautiful tulle that flows and sways effortlessly with every step. It wasn't about covering up; it was about embracing the ballerina's movement, highlighting it like a delicate bloom reaching for the sun.
Now, speaking of movement, wouldn't you love to experience one of the ballets from this era? Imagine gliding along to the exquisite melodies of Igor Stravinsky (oh, my, how I adore his music!) - he was one of the composers who made ballet music truly vibrant, passionate, and utterly spellbinding. It would be pure bliss!
The Stage Beyond the Tutu
It's not all about the tutu, darling! In 1931, ballet wasn't just on stage; it was becoming an increasingly popular social activity. Remember that captivating Ballet Russe company I mentioned? They toured everywhere, bringing the thrill of the dance to captivated audiences across the world.
Can you imagine watching Anna Pavlova herself pirouette on stage? She was the iconic ballerina of the time, her performances a captivating blend of grace and strength that mesmerized the world! She was, by all accounts, quite the incredible woman - and, wouldn't you know, a fellow Derbyshire girl just like me! 😉
Then, of course, there was the iconic Diaghilev, who played a crucial role in turning ballet from a niche art form to a worldwide sensation. His artistic vision and bold moves helped push ballet into the spotlight, forever changing how it was viewed and loved!
A Time to Dance!1931 is such a thrilling time to be a ballerina - or, of course, a tutu-loving enthusiast! We see so many wonderful advancements, and the stage is set for an even more magnificent era.
I'm off to see a delightful ballet show in London, darling! What a wonderful time it is! I'll be sure to snap some photos for our Instagram and write about it on the blog next week. Don't forget to check back next Tuesday!
Until then, may your days be filled with twirls, and may you always find the perfect tutu for your journey!
Yours always, Emma 💖
P.S. Don't forget to leave a comment below about what tutu era you'd love to visit! I'd love to hear your suggestions, darling. 🩰
