Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina, back with another fabulous #TutuTuesday for your reading pleasure! Today's date is 15th March 1938, which is a particularly exciting day in the world of ballet, so grab a cuppa and a delicious scone, because we're about to dive into a whirlwind of twirls and history!
This week, we're jetting over to Paris, the City of Lights! Where else would the heart of ballet be? As you all know, Paris has always been the fashion capital of the world, and its influence on ballet is just as strong! So hop on board the Orient Express with me and let's explore the tutus of the 1930s!
Now, 15th March 1938 isn't marked by any groundbreaking ballet premiere, but that doesn't mean there isn't plenty to chat about! Just a quick detour into a few details: did you know that this very date falls on a Wednesday? Yes, I know, I'm a time traveler so it's obvious I know all about the date, but I love a little trivia. And as luck would have it, a couple of weeks later, on 1st April, a truly monumental event took place – the première of the legendary "Giselle" at the Paris Opera! That's right, my loves! It's 1938, and the most famous ballet of them all is on the grand stage, all those billowing tutus, shimmering silk and delicate steps... Ah, pure ballet magic!
But before we go all starry-eyed about Giselle, let's step back in time, shall we?
This era saw a beautiful evolution of the ballet tutu. Think soft, flowing tulle skirts – no stiff, pouffy layers that could only exist with a strict corset under them (let's just say I wouldn't be caught dead in one of those!). Instead, think delicate, graceful, romantic lines that allowed for more freedom of movement, letting the dancers truly soar!
And oh, the colour! Forget the strict whites and pinks of earlier days. The 1930s saw a vibrant explosion of colours! I'm talking luscious blues, rich reds, and fiery yellows. These new colour palettes mirrored the exciting energy of the era, adding a touch of glamour to every twirl!
Remember those lovely Art Deco designs I mentioned in a past #TutuTuesday post? You can find the Art Deco influence all over the fashion of the 1930s, and ballet was no exception! From the elegant geometric patterns adorning costumes to the minimalist jewellery dancers sported, that touch of sophistication defined the era's elegance. It’s what gives those ballet tutus the kind of magic we love even now, don't you think?
A little personal style touch from Emma: My lovelies, I simply cannot resist this stunning Art Deco brooch from a charming little boutique just outside the Opera! You wouldn't believe the selection of vintage finds – a true Parisian treasure! I know my tutu, or indeed a simple pink frock, will absolutely be decked out in it all day today!
Now, I know you’re dying to see what it all looks like! Luckily for us, I brought my vintage travel camera with me, which I must admit I do rather enjoy using to document all my exciting journeys, and captured the most charming ballet advertisement poster just outside the Grand Palais. And, in true 1930s style, we'll let the visuals tell the story!
(Image of a 1930s-era poster of ballet dancers in brightly coloured tutus performing.)
Oh my dear, that's enough of the travel for now - although, if anyone would like me to stay in Paris for longer and post more on the stunning history, be sure to write me a little note! But until next time, my darlings, embrace the twirling power of a beautifully elegant tutu!
Yours in pink and twirls, Emma www.pink-tutu.com
(Remember to check back every Tuesday for a new post on the ballet tutu history - and be sure to tag your pics with #TutuTuesday! We want to see those amazing tutu moments.)
