#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1937-08-24

Hello my lovely tutu-lovers!

Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, dedicated to all things pink and twirly! As you know, every Tuesday is #TutuTuesday, where we journey back in time, to explore the history of this most wondrous of garments, the ballet tutu!

I'm Emma, your time-travelling fashionista from Derbyshire, England! (Think lots of lace and china cups, and yes, pink! Oh so very much pink!). Now, before you ask, I fund these wonderful adventures, of course, through ballet! I'm a passionate ballerina, a little obsessed with tutus, and I love travelling by train to the most delightful cities to watch performances and get my fix of fab fashion!

Oh, did I mention? I absolutely adore a good pink tutu, and, I have a mission, to get every single person on earth twirling in one, and maybe, just maybe, to see more of them gracing the catwalks of London, Paris, and New York!

So buckle up your pointe shoes, grab your popcorn, and let's take a trip on the Time Traveller Express back to August 24th, 1937...

A Waltz Back in Time

Now, 1937 - can you imagine it? Just before the start of the Second World War. Imagine yourself strolling through London, the sun on your face, perhaps enjoying a cup of tea at one of the many delightful cafes on Bond Street. (If you’re a bit peckish, may I suggest a delicious cream tea?).

Today’s dance news would likely feature the rise of Margot Fonteyn! This young and radiant English ballerina was quickly capturing the hearts of audiences. This year she made her American debut as part of the Sadler's Wells Ballet at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, and it wouldn’t be long before she’d be making a mark as a dance legend, taking the stage in London and across the world!

Tutufied!: A Whirl Through The 1930s Ballet

Back in 1937, ballet costumes had taken a step away from the rigid, dramatic styles of the romantic period, heading for a simpler, more lyrical style, much like the dancers’ movements! Think soft flowing chiffon, romantic lines, and a focus on lighter, brighter colours.

The “romantic tutu” was more of a streamlined creation, perfect for emphasizing graceful movement. It had fewer layers, showcasing a light, floating quality, with a graceful, circular form, which contrasted sharply with the elaborate, fuller skirts of earlier tutus, reminiscent of Victorian ball gowns! Think delicate floral motifs and shimmering fabric embellishments.

Can you just imagine the elegance!

And speaking of elegance, today in 1937, a very special performance was underway, showcasing the artistry of a renowned dance company in New York. The American Ballet Theatre was captivating audiences, not only with the dancers' breathtaking abilities but also the beautifully designed tutus. These works of art were crafted from silks and tulles and danced by world-class ballerinas like Lucia Chase and Irina Baronova. Oh! Their delicate costumes looked as though they could float on air!

This period was about the delicate movement and expressive artistry, perfect for the delicate and lovely “romantic tutu” design. These tutus had the look of the romantic period with the added freedom of the 20th century!

Imagine yourself in the audience at a performance by the American Ballet Theatre, maybe it’s a gorgeous new interpretation of Swan Lake! All your attention focused on a ballet dancer with her exquisitely beautiful “romantic tutu” flowing around her, gracefully performing graceful leaps, twirls, and expressive movements that truly conveyed the emotion of the choreography. Isn't that simply breathtaking?

The 1930s was a remarkable time in ballet, and the tutus themselves were an important part of its story.

Time Traveller’s Tutu Tip!

And remember, when choosing a tutu, there are two main kinds - the "classic" which is longer, fuller and resembles a fluffy Victorian ball gown; and the “romantic” tutu which is a shorter, more flowy creation for highlighting elegant and agile movements, think romantic dance moves, and a bit like a ballet version of a whimsical ball gown, perfect for dancing around the ballroom (or in the studio)!

Just like a piece of art, they’re both truly beautiful in their own ways!

My Pink Tutu Journey - Coming Soon

And now for a sneak peek at what's in store for next week's #TutuTuesday! I’ll be travelling forward to the exciting 1950s. Prepare to be swept up in a dazzling world of bright colors and groundbreaking fashion. Imagine it, darling, tulle in shocking pink, a ballet style fit for a modern princess. Yes, just as fabulous and fun as a ball gown but just so much more perfect for pirouettes!

Remember my lovely tutu lovers, every woman can be a ballerina! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just beginning your dance journey, find the tutu that makes you feel your most beautiful self! You could even be a star on #PinkTutu's dance floor! (Think of a fun class, filled with giggling, beautiful ladies in pink, and lots of tutu twirls!)

Until then, wear pink, and twirl with joy!

Love and twirls, Emma xx

www.pink-tutu.com

Don’t forget to check out our other #TutuTuesday posts!