#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1941-02-18

Hello lovelies, and welcome back to Pink Tutu, your one-stop shop for all things fabulous and twirly! This week, we're time-traveling to the 18th of February, 1941 - a rather momentous occasion indeed. But before we delve into the fashion of this bygone era, let me remind you that Pink Tutu is now over 5,000 posts strong, with this being number 5695! Pinch me, I'm dreaming!

Speaking of dreams, I just adore travelling by train. This week, I arrived in a fabulous metropolis filled with glittering lights and the air abuzz with the excitement of performance. There was just something so exciting about arriving by train. The rumbling rhythm of the engine, the clickety-clack of the wheels on the tracks, and the chance to see the countryside roll by from a cosy window seat – pure magic, darling! And just wait until I tell you about the shop windows in this city! It's just a shame it's all a bit overshadowed by the rather unfortunate reality that the war is still going on.

But you know me, I'm a firm believer that even in the face of adversity, there's always room for a touch of glamour.

So, let's hop back in our time machine (no, I don't have a real one – yet!) and have a little peek into what was going on in 1941!

Firstly, can we talk about this amazing tutu trend going on in 1941? Even amidst a worldwide conflict, fashion isn't letting go of its flair. Yes, the war has undeniably changed things. The world is adjusting, so are the trends! Materials are scarcer and clothes are simpler, but they still radiate a spirit of optimism. Think vibrant shades like the ever-so-fabulous turquoise and poppy red. And don't even get me started on those chic, fitted silhouettes that still highlight the femininity and grace we all know and love!

But when it comes to ballet – my one true love – 1941 saw something quite wonderful. This year brought to the world, Margot Fonteyn! Can you believe it? Margot Fonteyn! You could say she changed ballet forever and her presence certainly inspired the next generation of ballerinas – oh the magic! The stage seemed to shimmer a little brighter when she was there, captivating audiences with her sublime talent and graceful artistry. To call it a time of change would be a gross understatement. It's almost as if history remembers these times by their dances!

But you know, even in times of global upheaval, ballet offers a wonderful escape. That magical mix of elegance and athleticism is something truly captivating, don't you think? Imagine yourself on the stage, swirling in a perfectly pleated tutu, your heart beating in time with the music, and the world melts away… sigh! What a dream!

#TutuGoals, wouldn't you say?

And talking of goals, 1941 saw a new American Ballet Theatre launch too! If the thought of taking ballet classes gives you butterflies in your tummy – even with rationing going on (sugar, the essential ingredient of many a delicious buttercream icing!) – I would highly recommend checking them out if you're ever around this city. You'll meet so many amazing, inspiring people there! Who knows, maybe one day, you could be on stage dazzling the crowd like our darling Margot!

Now, I may have mentioned my love for pink – my absolute favourite colour – but it wasn't quite the dominant colour in 1941. They were still sticking with bolder shades to uplift morale. Imagine that! How could they resist the delightful blush of a perfect pink?

Of course, with such iconic shades around, pink tutus would really stand out in the era's colour scheme. What's more captivating than a twirling silhouette of pure pink amidst a landscape of wartime hues? Honestly, who could resist the magic of pink?!

And speaking of irresistible pink magic, wouldn't it be wonderful to wear a pink tutu through time? It would certainly liven up a drab railway carriage and perhaps encourage a wartime smile!

Okay, back to the present – it's definitely #TutuTuesday, and we're here, enjoying all the joy and sparkle this week has to offer!

But this journey through 1941 has shown us that ballet, fashion and tutus continue to charm and delight generations! Whether it's a vintage 1941 style or a modern twist, a pink tutu is the ultimate symbol of grace and glamour, reminding us of the power of fashion and beauty in even the toughest times.

Stay fabulous, darling, and keep twirling! Until next week, remember: It's never too late to wear a pink tutu and create your own ballet magic.