Hello my darling tutu-lovers!
Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where we celebrate the history and beauty of the tutu! Today, we're going on a bit of a journey, a trip back in time to June 24th, 1941. My oh my, the war is on, but we must remember even in the bleakest of times, there's still beauty to be found, and of course, that beauty always includes a gorgeous tutu!
I have to admit, it's a bit chilly in my time-travel outfit (this 1940s silk slip and cardigan combo is simply divine, but a little nippy!), so a nice cup of hot cocoa will definitely be on the agenda. I'm envisioning myself curled up at The Savoy Hotel's Tea Room - think beautiful pastries, elegant chandeliers, and of course, a steaming cuppa and a scrumptious slice of cake.
But back to our #TutuTuesday journey!
June 24th, 1941 - just two years after the outbreak of the Second World War, and while much of Europe was at war, ballet was still going strong. Imagine that! Dancing and artistry in the midst of turmoil. How incredibly inspiring!
One of the leading ballet companies of the day was the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. They were based in America and touring extensively at this time, bringing the magic of ballet to a wider audience. Now, this particular date was rather eventful for the company - they had just arrived in New York after their European tour was interrupted by the outbreak of the war.
In this day and age, ballet was seen as a luxurious affair. Those delicate, fluffy tutus, all the gorgeous costumes - they spoke of a time before the hardships and anxieties of war. But despite the challenging times, people were yearning for a taste of elegance and artistry. Ballet provided a much-needed escape, a world of beauty and wonder that transported people away from the grim realities of wartime.
And of course, what’s a ballerina without a glorious tutu? While the full, billowing tutus we know and love today hadn't quite reached their peak of fashion in 1941, you could still see some fabulous examples. The ballerina Maria Tallchief was becoming known for her beautiful interpretations of famous ballets, and her elegant dancewear was always a sight to behold.
You see, even in wartime, a tutu never loses its charm! It's a symbol of grace and elegance, a little bit of whimsy and magic. And trust me, we can all use a little bit of that right now.
My Tutu Inspiration
Now, if I were travelling to 1941 to see a show, what kind of tutu would I wear? Something soft, floaty and feminine, of course. Perhaps a pale pink tulle tutu, just a little shorter than the standard tutu, to show off those cute little shoes I'd be wearing. Imagine those delicate silk stockings and stylish shoes peeking out, the embodiment of 1940s femininity.
I’d add a lovely cream silk top or maybe a silk blouse with a lace collar. A pretty feather boa would just be the icing on the cake, to really add a touch of 1940s flair.
Don't you just love how fashion can really transport us to a different time and place? The costumes and dance wear, they are such wonderful stories of elegance, ingenuity, and creativity.
I can just picture myself there, seated in the velvet-lined auditorium at the Metropolitan Opera House, feeling that unmistakable buzz of excitement as the curtains rise and the orchestra starts playing. Then, the spotlight falls on the stage and the ballerina takes her first steps - and there, shimmering under the lights, is a perfect pink tutu. That moment, the sheer joy, the beauty of it all - that's why we love ballet!
A Bit of Me and the World of Ballet
I may be from Derbyshire, England, but I simply adore travelling and seeing all the wonderful ballets that the world has to offer. Recently, I saw the most beautiful production of Swan Lake in Prague - the sets, the costumes, the whole performance was simply exquisite! I managed to pick up a vintage ballerina figurine with a delightful tutu - perfect for adding a touch of charm to my own little dressing room.
Of course, my passion doesn't stop with seeing shows. I can't get enough of the fashion world either. Finding just the right vintage piece for my own wardrobe or scouring shops for a fabulous new ballet skirt is a day well spent!
Travel By Train
You may be thinking, "Emma, how do you get around all these wonderful locations with such exquisite taste? You must be swimming in a sea of vintage tutus!” I’m not going to lie - my time travelling, oh yes, that is fuelled by my passion for the arts and by the incredible dance performances that I do! From dancing at prestigious events in London to getting a standing ovation at the Grand Theatre in Verona - my tutu, along with my passion for ballet and vintage finds, helps to fund those travel trips and my vintage dress purchases. There’s just nothing like the roar of a grand auditorium, the warm glow of the spotlights, and the thundering applause of the audience!
So, the next time you see someone sporting a magnificent tutu, remember this - it's more than just a garment, it’s a little piece of history and a beautiful expression of joy and grace.
That's it for today's trip back in time, my lovely tutu lovers! Make sure you’re back next #TutuTuesday for another fun trip down memory lane. Until then, keep on twirling!
P.S. Don't forget to send me your favourite tutu stories or photos on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram! Just use the hashtag #PinkTutu so I don't miss them! You know where to find me, I’m @pinktutuemma, I'd love to see you and your amazing outfits! And hey, why not post a picture in your favourite tutu to join the #TutuTuesday celebrations! We love to see you wearing your twirly dresses, ladies!
Keep dancing, my dears!
Love,
Emma
P.P.S Remember, you are beautiful and amazing in your own unique way! Just like the delicate beauty of a ballerina's tutu, you're special and fabulous! Never forget that! And don't ever hesitate to twirl.
