#TutuTuesday: A Blast from the Past (and a Pink Tutu, Naturally!)
Hello my lovelies! It’s Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, time-traveling ballet blogger, back for another #TutuTuesday! This week, we’re waltzing our way back to 30th May 1933! I'm off to see the London Ballet in their beautiful new studio, the Mercury Theatre. Apparently, this studio has an extra-special stage built just for them - exciting! They’re doing the famous "The Triumph of Neptune" - what an apt subject! Can't you just picture it: glistening waves, swirling blue silk, and graceful ballerinas shimmering in the light? Honestly, I can practically feel the excitement already building.
Now, let's chat tutus! You see, 1933 was a glorious time for tutus. It was a time of elegance, imagination, and creative freedom - much like my own personal style! You'll be surprised to learn, even though you're picturing fluffy romantic tutus in your minds, they had all sorts of incredible designs back then! Some tutus were even multi-layered, with the first layer a soft cotton slip to cushion the ballerina's movements. The second layer was made of a lovely, floaty tulle, which allowed the dancer to pirouette with perfect grace. Oh, and don't forget the frills! I can picture some extravagant tutus covered in rows upon rows of the fluffiest, most luxurious lace you can imagine!
Did you know that 1933 was the year Léonide Massine, one of the most innovative choreographers in ballet, joined the company? You see, my darlings, this man loved creating dynamic movements and pushing the boundaries of how ballet was presented. He used tutus in innovative ways - incorporating new fabrics and styles, using layers and asymmetry to add even more movement and elegance. It must have been an incredibly inspiring time for anyone who loved ballet - the whirlwind of colour, expression, and innovation must have been truly dazzling.
I, of course, have packed a beautiful new pink tutu for my time-travel adventure. This one is simply divine! Imagine, a delicate cloud of pale pink tulle, adorned with sparkling, hand-stitched crystal beads. Heaven! It matches a pink fascinator and lovely feather boa - pure glamour!
Speaking of glamour, London was buzzing with fashion back in 1933. From elegant tailored suits to sophisticated silk gowns, fashion was in full swing! Even the ladies who frequented the theater had their own particular style – I’m talking delicate gloves, beautiful brooches, and glamorous hats with feathers and veils! Oh my, wouldn't it be amazing to find a time machine for an afternoon of 1933 shopping! I’d imagine finding amazing vintage dresses and tutus with an authentic historical touch – wouldn't it be a dream to find such treasures tucked away in some antique shop in Derbyshire?
And let's not forget the theatre itself, my darlings! You see, back then, it was all about ceremony, class, and a whole lot of dramatic spectacle. The theatres themselves were like ornate palaces of art. Imagine twinkling lights, plush velvet seats, and a vibrant crowd dressed in their finest - it would be an extravaganza! Just picture this scene: ladies in beautiful gowns and gentlemen in their finest attire chatting excitedly before a show, enjoying some theatre delicacies – perhaps some freshly baked pastries or a delightful cup of tea, all whilst wearing stylish gloves! How wonderful!
As you know, tutus are my passion! And the ballet tutus of the 1930s were quite something special. It’s always amazing to travel back in time and discover how fashion has changed and evolved over the years - and how these changes in style influence our own modern design! It makes you think about how tutus have continued to inspire new and interesting trends, whether it's the romantic ballerina styles or the sleek, modern lines of today. And let's be honest, we all love a little bit of ballet flair in our wardrobes!
As a reminder, I’m posting a new #TutuTuesday entry on the www.pink-tutu.com website every Tuesday, so stay tuned, darlings. In the meantime, don't forget to share your own pink tutu adventures and use the hashtag #TutuTuesday on your social media platforms - the more pink tutus, the better!
And of course, I will keep you all updated about my ballet adventures – perhaps next week’s #TutuTuesday will be filled with some new fashion finds or exciting photos of a recent performance! You know how much I love ballet, and especially finding stunning vintage dresses and tutus with authentic historical flair!
I do hope you'll join me for more pink tutu escapades next Tuesday. Until then, wear a beautiful, elegant pink tutu, live a little and be your beautiful self!
XOXO,
Emma