Hello, darlings! It’s your favourite tutu-wearing, time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back with another #TutuTuesday post! This week, I’m stepping back in time to 11th May, 1943. Let’s whisk ourselves back to wartime Britain for a peek at the world of ballet!
Oh, wartime fashion was such a mixed bag! On the one hand, fabric was rationed and the only things to wear were practical, wartime-issue clothes, drab and simple, almost austere. On the other hand, there was a real burst of colour and optimism emerging in the way people were using colour. A vibrant flash of pink on a street, perhaps a vintage flower in a lady's hair – all brought a moment of much-needed cheer and fun to those dark days. This is what really makes this era of fashion history so exciting - the mix of practical needs and optimistic fashion, all combined in such a unique way.
You might be thinking, Emma, surely the war years weren’t the best time for ballet, and you’d be right in some ways. Ballet theatres weren't as well-stocked and there were, of course, shortages of dancers. There were times when they needed to make do with whatever they could get their hands on, with makeshift props and maybe even the odd repaired costume. But in these bleakest times, ballet offered hope, reminding everyone of the beauty, grace and elegance in the world.
Just imagine the feeling! Imagine the theatre packed with eager spectators, all looking for some magic in those hard times. And as the dancers gracefully pirouette and leap in their stunning tutus, the audiences are carried away to a world of enchantment! The tutus during the war period weren’t quite as fluffy or elaborate as today’s. A little simpler, a little less flamboyant, and maybe made from fabric a little less frilly! Yet, there was an ethereal beauty about them that shone all the more for its wartime austerity! The dancers kept the spirit alive - their skill, grace, and talent illuminated the stage even under these tough conditions, like little beacons of light in a dark room.
The biggest thing I love about this period in history? The women had amazing spirit. Despite everything, they maintained their elegance and embraced the idea of ‘dressing up’ even though times were hard. A new and exciting wave of ‘casual’ elegance arose: A bold red lipstick, maybe a glamorous pair of gloves, paired with that signature vintage charm, made an almost magical statement. These women used what they had, in a resourceful way, to embrace their beauty. They would adapt anything – vintage dresses, simple fabrics, maybe even an old tablecloth, into a fashionable outfit for an outing to the ballet! There was also a trend of up-cycling - repurposing old items like shirts, handkerchiefs or scarves, for fashionable head scarves and accessories.
One of the greatest stories from this time period is how they used ‘recycled’ parachute silk to make absolutely gorgeous evening gowns. There was a real community feeling that grew through making and adapting clothing. It really underlined the ‘can-do’ spirit that kept women in high spirits and looking glamorous during such a tough time. Of course, these incredible ladies went further and embraced the idea of dancing and putting on beautiful performances.
And you know what? Even when they had to use spare materials, or create tutus that weren't as frilly and large, the art form blossomed, bringing joy to people who needed it more than ever. They didn’t let the wartime gloom dim their spirit! It wasn't just about the tutus – it was about the creativity and optimism. A beautiful metaphor for life, right? Even in the face of adversity, we can find joy and express ourselves in remarkable ways. And I am proud to say the pink tutu, despite wartime rationing and its fabric shortage, stayed as strong and defiant as ever – just maybe a little smaller, but full of the same optimism and feminine energy!
But, back to our timeline: What was happening on 11th May, 1943? On this very date, Britain faced heavy bombing from the Germans – known as The Second Happy Valley Blitz. The bombs rained down on parts of England, and they would have left their mark on the city and the hearts of those who lived through it. Despite the devastation and chaos, ballet shows continued to run, a sign of defiance and spirit! It was truly a time of hardship, and for that reason, a moment in time I will always hold with respect.
What are you waiting for, my lovely readers? Head on over to www.pink-tutu.com and catch the rest of my #TutuTuesday adventures!
See you next Tuesday! And remember, embrace the tutu, and may the grace of the dance always be with you. 🩰❤️
