Ahoy, fellow tutu-lovers! Emma here, back from another dazzling journey through the magical world of ballet history! This week, I've whisked myself back to the December 26th, 1933. I know, I know! Boxing Day – but before everyone starts munching on leftover Christmas pud, let’s get glamorous!
Today, my pink tutu and I are standing in the heart of New York City – the ultimate fashion capital of the era. Let me tell you, even back in the '30s, New York was buzzing with energy! The scent of perfume, the click of heels on cobblestone, the roar of a yellow taxi... it's just intoxicating!
Now, about those tutus: Today, my dearest friends, marks a particularly interesting date in the ballet world. It’s just a mere ten years after Serge Diaghilev’s legendary Ballets Russes shocked the world with their ground-breaking tutus, with their intricate designs and revolutionary lengths – these weren't your grandmother’s billowing, romantic, ankle-grazing affairs! The dancers were practically defying gravity, dancing in tutus that grazed the hip and were cut at just the right length to allow for daring and exhilarating leaps and jumps! These designs allowed for more freedom and movement. It truly revolutionized what a ballet tutu looked like.
Of course, I had to see a show while I was in the Big Apple! I was absolutely enthralled by the New York City Ballet. Imagine – dancers wearing breathtaking turquoise and silver tutus, all perfectly matched to the glittering sets and dazzling costumes of George Balanchine's productions. You could see why he's a legend!
Fun fact: I even spotted some dancers in daring single-layered tutus – oh, the thrill! Those flimsy layers were almost see-through, accentuating their graceful moves in a truly elegant manner. The world of ballet was beginning to experiment with bold designs, exploring new techniques and the freedom of movement those offered, not just with how they moved on stage but in how they flowed across the floor.
And it's not just the tutus that were changing; the dancers themselves are embodying this new wave of style and expression! We're no longer just graceful sprites - we’re powerful and fearless! You could feel it in the air, this electric energy buzzing through every dance, each delicate gesture!
Back in London: I have to admit, while New York is fantastic, my little heart belongs in London, and my favourite place to shop! As a tutu enthusiast, nothing brings me more joy than discovering new, innovative, dresses in London’s finest department stores – those elegant frocks that set my imagination alight. Imagine silk as soft as a butterfly's wing and shoes that make me feel like I’m dancing on clouds.
Back to 1933, New York: Let's get back to those 1930s styles for a moment. I found a fantastic hat shop here, right near Times Square! Now, imagine a chic hat in a shade of pink, perched atop a perfectly tousled blonde bob - truly iconic! These fabulous headpieces perfectly compliment the bold fashions of the day, from bold coats to flapper dresses, it was truly captivating!
And speaking of fashion – what about these sensational two-piece outfits with dramatic necklines and a little bit of revealing detail? Those bold skirts and sweaters made me want to whirl around a dance floor! Oh, what a vibrant decade! The fashion is just oozing with a carefree and independent spirit, perfectly mirroring the revolutionary tutus taking the stage.
The magic of Tutu Tuesday: My adventures in New York wouldn’t be complete without sharing some delightful news! This New York Times article mentions a new trend sweeping the city, with women dressing up in all sorts of fabulous attire for a glamorous social gathering called "Tutu Tuesday". These glamorous ladies gather each week in their best finery to celebrate fashion, laughter, and the joy of life!
I couldn’t resist! My pink tutu and I have been hitting up this social gathering! You know, we Brits love a good gathering, don't we? I found myself surrounded by stylish ladies adorned in fantastic outfits and stunning accessories – the scene was both inspiring and a touch competitive. Everyone wanted to be the most chic, and I am no different! I must admit, I’m even adding a touch of sparkle to my tutu tonight, to really catch the light. Just imagine – shimmering tulle reflecting those gorgeous New York lights! It's simply irresistible.
Now, it's almost impossible to imagine the impact that those brave ballerinas from 1933, who danced in those groundbreaking, game-changing tutus had on fashion history. They weren't just dancing, they were pushing the boundaries and inspiring us to embrace boldness, confidence and style. I find myself so very lucky to be traveling to see the evolution of these fashion pieces, of ballet. You could say I was almost born to dance in a tutu, and that's how I met you all on Pink Tutu! We're a tribe, dancing to our own tune and inspiring others to follow along. And my dearest Tutu lovers, until next Tuesday! I can't wait to see what new surprises the world of ballet will throw our way!
See you then,
Emma
xx
P.S. Don't forget to leave a comment! I want to hear your favorite moments from this week’s history journey, and which of those fabulous fashion pieces you’d like to try on for size.
P.P.S. Did you know the colour pink was inspired by the colour of the tutu, you read it here first. #tutulove #balletskirt #fashionblogger #vintagefashion #pinktutu #tututuesday #fashionhistory #ballethistory #nyc #timesquare #NewYork
