Hey darlings! Emma here, back for another fab #TutuTuesday adventure! Today, we're stepping back in time, train ticket clutched in hand, to the 10th of May, 1932. Can you imagine? It's like stepping straight into a scene from The Red Shoes, just without the drama! 👠
As always, this is blog post number 5237 for www.pink-tutu.com, the only website you need for your ballet-themed fashion fix. Let's be honest, tutus and history? That's a perfect recipe for an absolutely smashing Tuesday, wouldn't you agree? ✨
Now, back to 1932! Think streamlined shapes, geometric designs, and oh-so-stylish cloche hats. This is the era of flapper fashion, art deco, and a dance craze known as the Charleston! Oh, and a little thing called the Great Depression – not the most fun subject, but it does add an interesting twist to our tutu timeline.
While everyone was saving pennies and darning stockings, what were the ballerinas up to? Well, in 1932, the ballet world was in a bit of a transition, a bit like switching from a comfy pair of ballet flats to your favourite pointe shoes.
We're starting to see the modern ballet aesthetic emerging, with a shift from romanticism to a focus on more athletic, streamlined movements. This era witnessed the birth of a number of iconic ballets that continue to be performed to this day. One of my absolute favourites? Les Sylphides. Can you imagine watching this masterpiece? It would be absolutely spellbinding, even with the comparatively simple designs of the time.
But let's get back to those tutus, darlings! The early 1930s marked the beginning of the "classic tutu," the one we know and adore. Imagine those billowing, multiple layers of tulle, swirling like a magical dream! Imagine dancing around like a flower in the wind. Chef's kiss! It was a game-changer for the look of ballet!
However, the Depression did put a damper on extravagant costumes and props. Think elegant, timeless silhouettes using the most basic, beautiful fabrics: silk, satin, and maybe a few carefully-placed feathers! And speaking of timeless... let's chat about some incredible women shaping the ballet world back then!
We can't talk about ballet in 1932 without mentioning the magnificent Anna Pavlova, the undisputed queen of the time. She toured the world with her company, bringing the beauty of ballet to everyone who dared to dream of twirling and leaping! Think The Dying Swan, with its ethereal beauty, its simplicity... and a hint of the magic of the swan herself!
And then there was Diaghilev's Ballets Russes. They weren't afraid to experiment, pushing the boundaries of ballet to include innovative ideas and extravagant designs! Can you imagine those bold costumes? They were almost as striking as the dancers themselves!
But my absolute favourite? The brilliant Alicia Markova! I hear she's known for her refined grace and poise... but mostly because of her impeccable fashion sense! Now that's something to look up to, darlings!
1932 was a fascinating time in ballet history, the time where classical tutu designs really began to take shape. From sleek lines and romantic gestures to innovative ideas and captivating performances, this was truly a captivating era. And remember, this is only the tip of the iceberg! There is so much to learn about the history of the tutu!
As for me? I'm off to see The Sleeping Beauty at the Royal Opera House in London! (Did you know you can sometimes snag amazing deals on theatre tickets last minute? Talk about ballet magic!). After that? A little stop at the world's most exclusive designer boutiques! Because darling, the right outfit is all about telling a story - and I like to tell my stories in pink, naturally. 💖
Don't forget to join me next Tuesday for another exciting installment of #TutuTuesday. I have a whole world of ballet fashion to share with you! Remember to check back and comment below, darling. I'd love to hear from you! ✨
Stay fabulous, and don't forget to keep those twirling toes happy! 🩰💖
Emma xx
