Hiya darlings! Emma here, your pink-tutu-loving time traveller, back for another #TutuTuesday journey! It's Tuesday, 23rd January, 1940 and oh my goodness, do I have a story to tell you about tutus! This is post number 5639 for my Ballet Tutu History blog and trust me, I'm as excited to share this with you as I was the day I first slipped on a tutu and realized I'd found my calling!
So, settle in with a cuppa and let me take you back to the fabulous world of ballet back in the 1940s, where fashion and dance were a captivating twirl of grace and elegance. We're stepping onto the dance floor of history, but don't worry, this is one journey where it's perfectly acceptable to twirl and giggle!
A Tutu of a Different Kind?
Hold your horses! Back in 1940, the tutus you might be thinking of, the super pouffy, frilly, dramatic numbers you see in today's performances weren't quite the standard. We're talking about the beginning of a grand revolution in ballet! You see, before this, dancers wore quite practical and quite frankly, boring, knee-length skirts. A bit like what you'd wear for a dance class, if you can believe it! But around this time, the revolutionary 'tutu' began to appear. Not yet a staple of the stage, mind you, but making its grand entrance into ballet history. It was more like a very short, frilled, loose skirt, just enough to catch the eye, but definitely a departure from the traditional.
And do you know what this means? More fabric! More flair! More twirling! Yes, dear reader, ballet, even back in 1940, was all about showing off the intricate footwork and body movement. What better way to do that than by embracing the freedom of movement a short, flowing tutu allowed?
New York, New York
Now, it’s not all about dancing, right? This trip, I'm here in New York City, and I gotta tell ya, it’s a total whirlwind! Imagine skyscrapers reaching for the heavens, traffic honking in an urban symphony, and enough style to make you dizzy! The vibrant energy of New York in the 1940s was simply exhilarating, even back then. And the best part? It’s filled with ballet, from the opulent grand opera houses to the lively studios, it’s a haven for dance lovers. This time, I found myself taking in a stunning performance by none other than the legendary Alicia Markova, her elegance and grace a perfect picture of 1940s ballet.
Shop till you drop!
Let's be honest, even in 1940, a girl couldn’t just waltz through New York without indulging in some retail therapy, could we? And let me tell you, it's amazing! The shops here are brimming with fantastic dresses, accessories and yes, even tutus, believe it or not! My wardrobe's on fire, with bold patterns and vibrant colors, like shades of teal and crimson. There's a new wave of fashion hitting the scene, with chic trousers for the daring ladies and bold hats that just scream 'modern'. The ladies of the 1940s were definitely ahead of their time in the fashion game. Just look at those swing dresses, with the waist cinched and skirts swirling and flowing! It's simply beautiful, just like the tutus you'd see at a performance.
Back to my Roots: Derby's Delight
Though I travel through time, nothing beats the heart of home. That's why, I'm making my way back to Derby in a couple of days. The bustling, quaint little town is my heart and soul. Just stepping back to the charming, familiar streets and enjoying the company of my family fills my heart with joy. A good old English cuppa, some home-baked scones with clotted cream, and stories about old times, it’s simply perfect. You know, some things, like love and passion for ballet, never change.
Keeping it real.
Oh, before I go, have you got your pink tutu ready? I hope you're all getting involved with this week’s #TutuTuesday challenge. Don't be afraid to be bold! Wear your heart on your sleeve – or maybe I should say, wear a pink tutu! Don't be afraid to experiment! Don't forget to share your stylish creations on www.pink-tutu.com. We want to see the world embracing the tutu!
Catch you next Tuesday, my lovely pink-tutu enthusiasts! Until then, may your lives be as dazzling and elegant as a perfect pirouette!
Emma xo
