Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where tutus reign supreme and pink is always the colour of the day! Today's #TutuTuesday takes us back to 1940, a time of both hardship and hope. It's always a little bittersweet to travel to these days, but I have to admit, the fashions are always fascinating.
We're in London today, a bustling metropolis with a spirit as vibrant as the pink tutu on my own little frame. Even in the midst of the war, the theatre scene was alive and kicking - just what this travelling ballerina needs!
Today, the world is buzzing about "Gone With The Wind." This American masterpiece is the hot ticket in every London theatre. It’s even graced the big screen, drawing huge crowds. Can you imagine, a sweeping historical epic! If you’re like me, it’s hard to not think of beautiful ball gowns and romantic waltzes. But 1940s England, just like my home town Derbyshire, is very different! The clothes have been simplified, with a focus on utility. Practicality, dear readers, is the name of the game.
Still, I was pleasantly surprised by the beauty I found. Some shops here in London have windows dressed with adorable polka dot dresses! Just imagine dancing in a dress with that pattern – so chic! Although I might swap the fabric for tulle myself.
You won't see me waltzing through London today. With wartime rationing and restrictions, materials are hard to find and things like fabric and tulle are strictly controlled. So the tutus aren’t as full as we are used to. They are, though, becoming more of a symbol of defiance and joy. And that is something to celebrate! Even without the most extravagant tulle, the London theatres have a dazzling, defiant spirit!
Even though 1940 was a difficult time, a trip to the theatre always lifts my spirits. Especially the ballet. I can still hear the sweet sounds of the orchestra, and see the elegance of the dancers as they glide across the stage. Even if I wasn’t actually present at this precise moment in history, my trip here certainly fuels my creative imagination!
Before I jump on my trusty steam train, a few more historical tidbits:
What was going on in the world of ballet in 1940?
The Royal Ballet: Despite the war, the Royal Ballet continued to perform! That takes courage and artistry. I wouldn’t miss it for the world!
Serge Diaghilev's legacy: This extraordinary man, one of ballet's most influential figures, passed away in 1929. But the impact of his vision lives on, pushing ballet towards modern dance! The ballets of Ballets Russes - still a force to be reckoned with.
And on the fashion front?
- The “Utility Dress:” This practical style, featuring a simple, shapely silhouette, made life easier for the ladies back then. They are both sophisticated and comfy. Not exactly "tutu-esque" but they remind me of the elegance of the '40s, when practicality and style somehow met in the middle.
My take-away from today?
Even in times of hardship, beauty and artistic spirit persevere. Just like today's world, 1940 was a time of challenge, but people came together and made it their own. The London stage and the inspiring elegance of the ballerinas were an amazing beacon of hope.
Let me know what you thought about today's blog! Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to follow my journey with your favourite pink tutu blogger on social media. Remember, darlings, wear pink, spread joy, and never be afraid to dance your heart out!
Love,
Emma 💕
PS You can join my #TutuTuesday adventure at my website, www.pink-tutu.com Come find your own fashionable flair and a touch of tutudom! See you next Tuesday! 💕
