#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1938-08-23

Hello lovelies, and welcome back to another fabulous #TutuTuesday on Pink-Tutu.com! I'm your ever-so-pink-obsessed time-traveling ballerina, Emma, bringing you a peek into the past. This week, we're shimmying our way to 23rd August, 1938!

Can you imagine? It’s almost 90 years ago – the era of swing music, cloche hats, and those fabulous streamline trains, whisking you off to the seaside with a light breeze tousling your curls.

Of course, no seaside trip was complete without a bit of ballet! You know how I adore a good show, and it seems this date is overflowing with theatrical delights. I'm itching to hop onto the next steam engine and immerse myself in the world of 1938's London ballet scene!

The 1930s were a thrilling time for ballet, dear readers. The romantic and classical styles of the Victorian era had paved the way for a bolder, more modern aesthetic. Choreographers like Serge Diaghilev, the visionary director of the Ballet Russes, were turning ballet on its head, pushing the boundaries of artistry and spectacle.

But tutus? Well, let’s just say that things were a little different in terms of our beloved tutu styles back then.

Imagine a tutu, long and flowing, draped gracefully like a beautiful cloud. No tight, short skirts here, oh no! We’re talking tiers and tiers of delicate, light fabric, swirling like a graceful mist as the dancers glide across the stage.

This romantic, sweeping silhouette became so iconic, it inspired even the design of the iconic "fairy" costume worn by the Queen of Hearts in Walt Disney’s "Snow White." Talk about lasting trends!

And oh, the beauty of the dance scene in London at the time! The prestigious Sadler's Wells Ballet Company, later known as the Royal Ballet, was flourishing under the expert hand of Frederick Ashton, the talented British choreographer. It’s a magical blend of tradition and innovation – a delightful journey back in time.

If I were to teleport myself back to that day, I’d head straight to the Sadler's Wells Theatre. I hear whispers of the grand ballet “Giselle,” one of the greatest ballets of all time, being performed, which must be a simply breathtaking spectacle!

The allure of the London stage must have been incredible, a swirling tapestry of music, lights, and breathtaking movement. It was the heart of ballet, a place to be mesmerized and swept away by a symphony of dance.

The most enchanting thing about 1938 ballet was the pure artistry of movement. No tricks, no overly flashy acrobatics, just the purest form of expression – a testament to the enduring power of dance.

And you know me, dear readers, I can’t resist a fashion connection! What I’m noticing in all this, from the intricate embroidery on the ballerinas’ costumes to the gorgeous fabrics that would be in the shops, is a strong appreciation for detail.

Even when tutus were more on the longer side, they were always adorned with dainty beading and delicate lace. Every detail mattered!

And oh, that fabric! It had a weight and a shimmer, adding another dimension to the performance – so much more than a simple costume, it was an integral part of the ballet experience.

You know, as I’m digging deeper into 1938, it’s really giving me some brilliant new ideas for future tutu designs. Maybe something flowing, but with an exciting modern twist…

I think you’ve already seen what I mean, dear readers. We’ve learned that 1938 had a unique magic when it came to fashion, and a certain charm to the ballets they enjoyed.

Who knew history was so glamorous! It inspires me, as always, to keep learning, growing and sharing my love for the fabulous world of ballet.

So don't forget, everyone, be brave! Be confident! And rock that pink tutu with pride, because no matter when or where, the joy of ballet knows no boundaries.

Until next week, dear readers. Let’s dance!

Yours in Tutus, Emma