Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, darlings! It's me, Emma, your favourite tutu-loving time-traveler, back with another #TutuTuesday adventure. This week we're swirling back to the 21st of May, 1940! Oh, the romance! The glamour!
#5656: The Wartime Twirl
This Tuesday takes us straight to the heart of World War II. Now, before you picture all of us ballerinas clutching onto our tutus while sirens blare, let me reassure you - the wartime spirit was surprisingly lively when it came to the dance floor! In fact, 1940 was a pivotal year for ballet in the UK, with a touch of wartime drama thrown in!
I found myself whisked away to the Royal Opera House in London, which was surprisingly full, even with the war looming! There was a sense of camaraderie in the air as Londoners came together to experience a bit of escapism through the beautiful art of dance. They were, after all, craving beauty and grace as much as we do now!
That night, the programme featured a magnificent ballet by Ninette de Valois - The Rake's Progress, a ballet with stunning costumes and a heartwarming storyline that resonates even today. We all went wild for the beautifully designed tutus. The whole evening was a reminder that even in times of hardship, there's always room for grace and artistry in life.
A Touch of Wartime Elegance
Of course, war did influence fashion choices, as we know from history books, but the allure of ballet stayed strong. Women started adopting a simpler, more practical look for everyday life, embracing utilitarian dresses with strong, defined lines, like those I wore in my last trip back to 1940s England. The shift towards wartime fashion did however bring with it a change in materials. Many garments, even the delicate, beautifully made ballet tutus, were crafted with cheaper substitutes due to the restrictions on silk and other luxury fabrics.
But don't you worry, dearies! The need for beauty was not extinguished! I saw ladies at the ballet wearing beautiful, flowy chiffon dresses, just slightly toned down by the wartime spirit. Imagine! This era was all about embracing femininity and elegance, no matter the constraints.
Tutus Through Time: What You Missed!
To be honest, while 1940 was a thrilling and insightful year to revisit, it's important to acknowledge that the tutus themselves weren't quite the pink, poofy, voluminous things they've become today! The 1940s tutus were more delicate and flowy, a beautiful echo of the romantic ballerinas of the 1930s, although they started to shift into more dramatic shapes later on in the 40s. Think less pouffy princess, more ethereal and delicate dancer. But fear not! They were still a symbol of feminine grace, and that is exactly why I love them!
Speaking of graceful ladies, this week's Tutu Trend Alert: Let's bring some 1940s fashion magic back into our wardrobe, darling! Why not try a classic 40s style floral dress and a dash of sparkly pink? Pair your outfit with your favourite tutu, and you're ready to dance the day away! I know I will be!
Coming Soon: From the London Theatre to Derbyshire
Speaking of pink and tutus, I’ve got some exciting news to share! As many of you know, I was born and raised in beautiful Derbyshire, a place with a rich history in textile craftsmanship, and guess what? My next trip back in time will bring us to Derbyshire's iconic fashion scene! We’ll see if the same graceful fashion vibes exist as London! Join me next week, darlings! Until then, don’t forget to embrace the beauty in every moment, even amidst the everyday chaos, and keep that tutu spirit strong! 💖🩰
Catch you next Tuesday!
Your Emma,
x
