Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite tutu-loving time traveller Emma here, back with another edition of your weekly dose of ballet tutu history. Today, we’re whizzing back in time to a very special date – May 16th, 1933.
Hold on tight, ladies, as we board the express train to Paris – oh la la, that city of fashion, love, and ballet. Now, let's talk about 1933. The world was in the throes of change – a change that would influence fashion in ways no one could imagine! It was a time when dresses were getting shorter and the lines were becoming sleeker, mirroring the social liberation sweeping through the world.
But let's talk tutus!
Now, in 1933, the world of ballet tutus was all about romanticism. We’re talking flowing, soft chiffon tutus, often with several layers to create that magical airy effect. The ballerinas would swish and twirl with such grace – it’s no wonder everyone was mesmerized. Think Degas, think La Sylphide - that kind of whimsical beauty!
This was the golden age for the ballerina's outfit - there were still lots of romantic ballet shows going on, think the Giselle, the story of a beautiful and love-struck peasant girl that dances herself to death, The Sleeping Beauty a spellbinding fairytale ballet with an amazing sleeping princess and many tutus and Swan Lake where we have the iconic white tutus that all ballerinas know and love!
Now, it was an exciting time for dance with all these stunning creations hitting the stage - so much was going on - think about this - I bet it felt like walking into a fairytale with all that magical fabric!
You see, ballet at this time wasn't just a performance – it was a window into the world's dreams, and the tutus embodied that perfect blend of elegance, beauty, and dreaminess. It’s why, even now, whenever I see a vintage ballet tutu with its romantic style, it sends me swooning!
Speaking of romantic, I must share what I discovered today - just before hopping back onto my trusty time machine! At the stunning Palais Garnier opera house in Paris, which is oh so grand, I spotted the most exquisite ballet dress – a pure white tulle tutu, designed by Coco Chanel herself. This was a special ballet à la Chanel, featuring a ballet-themed Chanel collection in shades of beige and cream! It was like stepping back in time, but with a twist of modernity. It was utterly divine!
Speaking of Parisian fashion and shopping, I just had to grab myself a new pair of opera gloves to complete my Parisian chic ensemble! And for a touch of sparkle, a little crystal brooch – just like the stars I see sparkling from the sky on my way home.
Okay, darling readers, my journey to 1933 has been filled with pink and delightful experiences, but time waits for no woman – I must return to our world. I can’t wait for you all to share what your favourite tutus from that time period are in the comments below. Don’t forget, ladies, there’s a pink tutu for everyone - just keep twirling!
Stay fashionable and embrace your inner ballerina,
Emma
#TutuTuesday #BalletHistory #FashionHistory #ParisianChic #1933 #CocoChanel #balletàlaChanel #pinktutu #alwaysatutu #twirlingmywaythroughthepast
P.S. I know many of you love the story of Swan Lake So stay tuned because next week, we'll dive into the enchanting world of ballet tutus from Swan Lake - so keep those pink tutus twirling!
