Welcome back, tutu lovers! This is Emma here, your resident pink-tutu enthusiast, coming to you live from…well, let’s just say time travel is a wonderful thing! Today's #TutuTuesday is extra special, taking us back to the dazzling year of 1942!
This is blog post number 5746 for my beloved Ballet Tutu History blog. I hope you’re enjoying my weekly journey through the fascinating history of our beloved tutu, bringing you insights into how this magical garment has danced its way through the ages.
I’m thrilled to have the chance to explore how the tutu was making its mark in the world back in the days of rationed butter and Victory gardens! It's a bit of a historical leap, but, as ever, I'm here to bring you a touch of glamorous escapism with every click!
London Calling
This week, we find ourselves in the heart of London, England – a city bustling with life, but with an air of resilience amidst wartime uncertainties. I must say, even the Blitz can’t dampen the spirit of this vibrant city. I have to say, even when everything is uncertain and gloomy, the city seems to shine through, even through the smoky grey sky.
I'm standing right here in the majestic Royal Opera House – a temple of the arts! Today, we celebrate "Giselle" – a masterpiece by Adolphe Adam – a timeless classic showcasing the ballerina’s grace and storytelling prowess! It's a true treat for the eyes, a testament to the transformative power of ballet. I love "Giselle." This show was the very first I saw when I came here from Derbyshire – and what a wonderful welcome to London it was!
Now, back to 1942… Imagine being dressed in a fluffy pink tutu and dancing this timeless tale under the grandeur of this iconic theater, and let me tell you, the tutus are absolutely beautiful. What a wonderful era of the tutu's development! It's still the classic Romantic tutu, long, fluffy and wide. Even with the war, the beauty of the stage is still paramount. Even the most elegant dancer looks fantastic in that era of ballet skirt! The way they floated across the stage is beautiful, even with the heavy fabrics!
Tutu Trends of the Era
Speaking of tutus, the 1940s are actually a rather important chapter in tutu history! The romantic style tutu is at its height! This period embraced volume, making each pirouette even more mesmerizing.
Now, remember those stiff and intricate "Classical" tutus with multiple layers of "tulle" ? They've evolved! This romantic style sees a little less emphasis on structure – allowing more space for romantic "swishing", more emphasis on the movement.
The colors in 1942? Well, things were a bit more subdued because of the wartime shortages. The tutus were not so vibrantly pink, it’s true, with limited materials. They’re more a cream or a very light pale pink. We can forgive them that – and this subtle shade makes a lovely contrast with the stunning elegance of the choreography. The ballet companies are finding beautiful alternatives in color – a touch of pastel pink – the delicacy of these costumes make me swoon. Even if the skirts were simpler because of the times, that’s the true genius of dance – to express beauty in all its form! The wartime effort made tutus more elegant. The simplicity actually adds to the performance. They say less is more, don’t they?
And, speaking of simplicity, what about the "tulle" ? The fabrics of the era are still mostly silk and cotton – the romantic style is all about softness and femininity! I imagine, too, the lightness of the material was in great demand as ballet dancers of the era would often dance up to 2 or 3 times per day.
I'm fascinated by how this period embraced femininity, both on stage and off. The silhouette is so lovely and flattering.
A Fashionista's Dream
After all, who doesn't love a beautifully flowing skirt?
Speaking of femininity… I must tell you – even in 1942, the shops on Oxford Street, a true heaven for a fashionable ballerina, are overflowing with dreamy fashion. And even then, everyone knows a pink tutu always brightens up the mood, so we’re already seeing these soft shades filtering through everyday fashion.
Remember – those chic hats that are everywhere? Now, a pink feather or bow adorning one of those chic hats is practically mandatory! What can I say? Even in times of austerity, a bit of pink always makes everything a little bit sweeter!
And let’s not forget the amazing, wonderful shoes – ballet pumps in vibrant shades! Who needs those sensible war-time shoes? A little pink certainly lifts the mood of the street fashion in London.
I also must confess, that I found myself a lovely pink silk dress – yes, there’s just something magical about the way a pink dress catches the eye! What better color for an elegant, timeless fashion? Just add a pink hat with a feather and, hey presto – I’m back in London in 1942!
And for you tutu enthusiasts, even then, the high street stores had ballet-inspired pieces! They call it "dancing elegance!" The beautiful swirling forms, and – you've guessed it – pink! This fashion just seems to go round and round, doesn't it?
Keeping the Spirits Up
In 1942, amidst the global strife, it's amazing to see the arts play such a crucial role in keeping spirits high! Ballet is an outlet, an expression of hope – a way of escaping the troubles of the world for a little while. And let’s not forget, tutus help create an atmosphere of joy, a little ray of light. So this Tuesday, remember to always wear your tutu with a smile, dear tutu lovers – even when things get a little challenging. The best tutu can make us feel like anything is possible.
Oh, and before I go! There's just something so romantic about travelling by train! Just imagine boarding a steam engine train on a warm summer evening. Just a tip, you have to get in early if you want a window seat on a trip to see the London Ballet shows. You can do all this today in London if you look carefully – and the fashion is back as well – just a tiny bit different! And yes, tutus, pink or otherwise, are back, too, though a touch less romantic this time. That’s the beauty of this amazing, stylish garment, it's for everyone and can make us all feel like anything is possible!
I must be going now, my next time-traveling adventure awaits.
Remember to join me again next Tuesday – for more Tutu Tuesdays. Because no one looks as stylish as a pink-tutu-wearing fashion-loving ballerina. Join me next time – until then, keep dancing and stay chic!
Your Emma
P.S. Follow us on Instagram @pinktutu for more fabulous tutu inspiration!
