Hello, darlings! Emma here, back for another dazzling #TutuTuesday post, numero 5423, straight from the archives of my Tutu-Travels! It's a brisk December morning here in the magical land of ballet, and what better way to start the week than with a little trip back in time? Today we're waltzing back to 1935, a year that saw some fabulous fashion moments and groundbreaking ballet moves.
You're probably thinking, "Emma, how do you do it? Travelling through time, wearing that delightful pink tutu!" Well, it's all thanks to my passion for ballet! The applause of a thrilled audience after a show, the clinking of those much-needed coins for the train fare... it's all worth it for the thrill of uncovering the history of ballet's greatest fashion statement – the tutu.
Today, we're focusing on 1935, a year brimming with artistic inspiration and new beginnings! Imagine, in December 1935, while the first snowflakes were delicately gracing Paris, the legendary Serge Diaghilev's Ballet Russes were taking the world by storm.
Speaking of Paris, darlings, it’s a real haven for fashion. Let’s whisk ourselves to Paris’ famous grand stores and soak up the stunning style. Oh, what are these wonderful colours! Beautiful hues of amethyst and sapphire are dominating the fashion scene. And if I could squeeze these wonderful outfits into my travel case, they would be adorning my own form this very moment. But I shall resist the temptation as we have much ground to cover today!
The 1930s saw an array of incredible ballet trends. Imagine swirling gowns that seemed to float on air, shimmering fabrics, and bold colours! We even have the beginnings of those incredibly glamorous dancewear we still wear today. Those dazzling costume designs just captured the spirit of the era! I wish I could snag myself one for my collection.
On December 3rd, 1935, "Le Coq d'or" (The Golden Cockerel) by Igor Stravinsky, a glorious work of artistry with exquisite costumes and ballet, was featured in a stunning performance. This iconic work by Stravinsky had the whole world talking – it truly epitomised the creative energy that pulsed through the heart of ballet during the 1930s. Imagine yourself caught in a swirl of graceful dancers, the air filled with music and enchantment. You’d have to be the envy of everyone present! Don’t you agree, darlings?
As the decade wore on, ballet started embracing a newfound boldness. And what's the epitome of boldness in a ballerina's world, you ask? The tutu, of course! The way I see it, every dancer is just waiting for the chance to pirouette and dance the night away in a tutu. And these early 1930s tutus had some seriously beautiful details. Just picture the fine lace trimming the edges, the silken ribbons gently brushing against the stage, and, of course, those lovely light hues and soft pastel shades.
Do you think I'm dreaming? No darling, it's all true! Even today, some of those designs continue to inspire modern-day dancers and costume designers. If only we could snap our fingers and have them magically appear in our own time.
Remember, darling, a true ballet aficionado knows the value of a stunning tutu. Whether you're catching a show at the Royal Opera House, a captivating performance by the American Ballet Theatre, or a stunning local production, it’s always exciting to witness the transformation that takes place when a ballerina dons her special dancewear.
But that’s it for today’s Tutu Tuesday adventures. It's time to hop on a train to Derbyshire, England! I’m ready for some much-needed scones and jam to replenish my ballet energy. Next week, darlings, I will be whisking you all to a rather splendid historical event and you just wait and see… we will all be feeling that lovely pink tutu feeling after our grand adventure!
And don't forget, darlings, the world's waiting for you to wear your pink tutu, whatever the occasion! Be brave, be beautiful, be pink!
Catch you all next week,
Emma,
Your Tutu-Travelin' Blogger
P.S. Don’t forget to keep those delightful tutu stories flowing. Share them on social media with #TutuTuesday or email them to my blog team. I love to hear how the Tutu spirit is inspiring everyone in our magical community!
