Hello darlings! It's me, your pink-tutu-loving friend Emma, back with another delightful dive into the fascinating history of ballet's most iconic garment: the tutu! This Tuesday's #TutuTuesday takes us back to 24th May, 1938, a year filled with glamorous beginnings for the tutu we know and adore today.
Grab a cuppa and settle in, because this trip back in time is going to be simply fabulous!
The Grand Palais: Where Grace and Glamour Meet
Imagine this, dear reader, it’s 1938, and the air in Paris is buzzing with anticipation. The Grand Palais is about to become the backdrop for one of the most dazzling ballets ever performed – Serge Diaghilev's “Les Présages,” the ballet that launched the career of the iconic Russian ballerina, Natalia Makarova! Now, Natalia's tutu, oh my goodness, was a dream! Crafted in delicate white tulle, it skimmed her curves with such grace, swirling and twirling with every effortless movement, embodying the sheer artistry of ballet.
A Time of Transformation
1938 was a period of thrilling change for the world of ballet. You see, tutus weren't always those ethereal clouds of fabric we adore today. They began as very different things, evolving into what we recognise as the "classic" tutu by the time we land in 1938. The early Romantic ballets showcased very elaborate, billowing skirts - often resembling Victorian nightgowns! These had to be completely impractical, just imagine those hoops swirling across the stage! By 1938, they'd thankfully transformed into shorter, more structured tutus. Think elegant shapes that accentuated the ballerina’s lines – the tutu became less about hiding the body, and more about showcasing the graceful curves.
Inspiration from a "Pink-tastic" Paradise
Of course, it was more than just a change in shape, darling! Colour also played a significant part in the evolution of the tutu. I must admit, 1938 wasn’t as "pink-tastic" as I might have liked. But let's just say that the gorgeous colour we know and love began to shine through more and more in those fabulous tutu designs, ready for its big, glorious reveal. We might even spot the occasional hint of pink in those 1938 ballets, whispers of a glorious pink revolution to come!
Train Journeys to a World of Ballet
Here in Derbyshire, England, where I live (it's such a beautiful, countryside location!), we might not have experienced the excitement of the Parisian Grand Palais, but we definitely had our own little corner of the ballet world! We were just a few hours away by train to see the amazing ballet performances in London – a real treat for any ballet enthusiast! Oh, and did I mention? A lovely vintage, first class carriage makes the perfect haven for a fashion-conscious traveller like myself! You'd never catch me sitting amongst the bustling crowd in anything other than my finest frock, wouldn't you?
Sharing the Passion for Pink and Tutus
Travelling by train is just a delightful way to travel, full of anticipation, beautiful countryside views, and the excitement of arriving at a ballet performance. Imagine the feeling, darlings – it’s just intoxicating!
Speaking of passion, remember my mission, dear reader, my driving force? That's right, it's my passion to spread the joy of wearing pink tutus! You know I’m convinced every single woman on this planet could, and should, be twirling in a magnificent pink tutu! Who wouldn’t want a little extra pink magic in their life?
Now, let's end this journey back to 1938 on a high note, remembering the wonderful transformation that shaped our beloved tutu. And remember, darling, embrace the joy of pink – it’s the perfect colour for feeling radiant and glamorous!
I'll see you next week for another enchanting #TutuTuesday. Don't forget to keep dancing and spreading the pink!
Emma
P.S. What did you think of the pink tutus in 1938? Leave a comment and let me know!
And of course, don’t forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com, it's your portal to a world of pink ballet and beautiful tutus!
