Hello, darlings! Emma here, your pink-tutu-wearing, time-traveling ballet aficionado. Welcome to post number 5679 of my beloved #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog! It’s Tuesday, and that means it’s time to delve into the fascinating world of ballet fashion, from the exquisite elegance of the past to the delightful delights of today. Today’s date is October 29th, 1940. Let’s hop in the time machine and see what exciting things were happening in the tutu world!
A Time of Transformation
The world is a bit different in 1940. A dark shadow hangs over the planet, and with the war taking hold, life has changed in a big way. Here in New York City, where ballet was really taking off, it's a time of uncertainty. You’d be surprised at how quickly the war effort has affected fashion – practical, simple clothing is becoming the norm, especially in wartime London where rations are in place. I imagine those long train journeys, and how my fellow Britons are making do with the scarcity of fabrics, though everyone knows a good pair of well-fitting tights can go a long way.
But even with a bit of a somber atmosphere, a wonderful wave of beauty is still rippling through the world of ballet. It's a time of amazing dancers like Alicia Markova and Margot Fonteyn, dazzling audiences with their artistry, both gracing the stages in New York City at this time, as well as a new wave of talent rising through the ranks.
In our little slice of fashion paradise – tutus, my dear friends, continue to be the centre of the ballet world! The 1940s were a decade of big changes in tutu style – and these new, modern lines will stay with us for decades to come.
A Peek at 1940’s Tutu Style
Think for a moment of the “Romantic tutu,” that long and voluminous skirt made popular during the Victorian Era - the picture of a graceful fairytale. That's all very lovely for the romanticism, but in the 1940s things have changed! We see the introduction of the 'Short Tutu', the 'American Tutus' as they were called. These revolutionary little skirts, barely brushing the knees, provided so much freedom of movement – just picture the glorious jumps, pirouettes, and fouetté they were now capable of! The classic ballerina tutu was here to stay - but with this more agile, modern feel.
My heart simply melts for the elegant silhouettes and feminine details of these tutus – the lace, the ribbon accents, and all the frilly goodness, creating a balance between modernity and that timeless elegance!
Oh, and speaking of lovely embellishments! Can we talk about how tutu detailing has been taking off?! We're seeing everything from little flower motifs, to pretty ribbon work and shimmering sequins that would dazzle under stage lights – and would certainly be a beautiful inspiration for my next outfit, I can just feel myself inspired, even thinking about this on my time travelling trips!
And remember, tutus were always worn with *pointes shoes! * Those magical shoes with their delicate pointe construction that allow ballerinas to seemingly float above the stage – an utterly captivating performance art! We owe a huge debt of gratitude to dancers like Marie Taglioni for their role in promoting these elegant and sophisticated footwear, and their continued presence as an enduring symbol of ballet and beauty.
*Looking ahead, 1940 - a Decade of Innovation and Elegance! *
As we continue to travel through time, remember, each decade will present us with its own special brand of magic and innovation in the world of dance – the beautiful, dramatic and elegant ballet world – my love, my life, my inspiration!
I love hearing from all of you on our travels! Don't forget to share your #TutuTuesday ideas and thoughts over on the www.pink-tutu.com website – I would absolutely love to see photos of your favourite pink tutus. Remember darlings - tutus are always the perfect celebration of grace, beauty and just plain FUN! I can't wait for next week, as we delve deeper into the fascinating and glittering history of ballet!
Until next time,
Your pink tutu-loving, time-traveling friend,
Emma
Important Date in Ballet History
For the record, 1940 saw some important dates for ballet history, but today, we'll highlight the New York City Ballet. The NYC Ballet debuted under its new title, under the artistic direction of George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein. Now, you may be thinking "Emma, you love the British style, why mention NYC? " And you’re right - I do! But there are moments when international ballet scenes must be acknowledged!
This year also marked the opening of American Ballet Theatre in 1940 under the artistic directorship of Lucia Chase and Richard Pleasant .
Don’t be surprised if we journey to America next week – my curiosity for all things fashion and dance knows no bounds! And as my train journey gets shorter and shorter as we move into the 21st century – that only means one thing – a new ballet show will be calling! Perhaps you could join me in New York, London, or even Paris - and share a glass of champagne – in the world of tutus the possibilities are limitless!
Remember, darlings! * Tutus are never too sparkly or frilly! * Pink is the most fabulous of all colors. * There is never too much ballet in the world!
And just for fun, remember you can use this for inspiration:
- You can have more fun when you travel with a great friend - just look at my lovely time machine, he can even keep you warm in winter!
- There is no better time of year for a ballet!
- We must continue to spread ballet and joy in the world!
Stay sparkly!
Emma
