Hello lovelies! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast, back with another fabulous #TutuTuesday instalment! This week we’re taking a magical trip back in time, hopping on the train to August 31st, 1943, to explore the tutu history of a time shrouded in both darkness and beauty!
Number 5827 (seriously, is that a lot of posts?! I'm a tutu-loving machine!) - This is what I do
Every Tuesday I get dressed in my most fabulous pink tutu, find a good old-fashioned railway carriage, and whisk myself away to another era. Why? To chronicle the fascinating history of the tutu, of course!
As any true ballet enthusiast knows, the tutu is more than just a dance outfit, it's a symbol of artistry, grace, and timeless beauty. I absolutely love everything about ballet, from the stunning street performances and ballets staged in grand theatres to the sheer artistry of the performers!
I often spend hours lost in fashion boutiques in various eras – there’s something utterly intoxicating about the delicate lace, the flowing silk, and the stunning designs that graced the world before we got our heads buried in phones, you know?! And when it comes to ballet outfits, well, I adore the elegance and simplicity of the classic tutu.
This week we find ourselves in a slightly sombre 1943, amidst the global turmoil of the war. Can you imagine the challenges the world of ballet faced in such a difficult time?
1943: A world on the move
Think about the London we find in 1943. Wartime Britain! The streets, now a maze of blackout curtains, might have seemed duller compared to the glamorous pre-war years, but fashion in London is never quite as simple as all that. Despite the wartime restrictions, the beauty and grace of ballet continued to shine! The London Ballet (later to be known as the Sadler’s Wells Ballet) braved through those times, putting on countless performances. This legendary ballet company played a pivotal role in lifting spirits during the war, bringing hope to Londoners who needed it most!
It wasn't just in Britain, though. Let's journey to the other side of the Atlantic! Did you know, a little town in Virginia called Saratoga Springs was buzzing with the sounds of ballet too? This particular spot was one of the leading places to find ballerinas twirling about in their fabulous tutus - particularly in a theatre that used to be called the Saratoga Spa! Just imagine it - grand performances of classic ballet during the war! It really shows you how deeply ingrained the artistry of ballet was, no matter the struggles.
What's going on today in this wonderful time?
Oh my gosh, did you know, in 1943, an event named “Tartan Day” was first celebrated? Can you imagine all the kilt-wearing gents out on the streets of Edinburgh, showing off those glorious tartan fabrics! This celebration, dedicated to the cultural and historical ties of Scotland, shows that even during difficult times, people wanted to find joy and connection through their traditions! I have the perfect pink tutu that matches some of the tartans.
Speaking of Scotland, can we talk about Scotland's biggest success story of the day, the Highland Brigade! In 1943, this valiant brigade of soldiers had a triumph against the Germans in Tunisia! You really have to admire the brave hearts of those soldiers, their bravery during the war inspires me every time I think about it.
This was also a day where a movie premiered called "Stage Door Canteen". It is about the theatre being the focal point of so many people's lives, it must have been absolutely magical. It reminds me of a beautiful ballet production – stories, emotions, and artistry intertwining on stage in perfect harmony! I bet the actors all had amazing costumes. The one thing that fascinates me most about fashion, and especially costumes in historical shows and films is the incredible detail! I would have loved to meet a costumer, the level of work in some of those historical pieces would make you appreciate the finer things in life!
And now… Tutu Time!
Back to the tutus! If you picture ballet costumes in 1943, imagine a world of elegance and simplicity, with classic lines and delicate materials. Tutús back then weren't as elaborately decorated as those you see today, focusing instead on clean lines and grace. Picture shorter tutús made from soft tulle and shimmering silk – think light as a feather, dancing through the air. Imagine dancers with carefully styled buns adorned with flowers - a splash of color and natural beauty complementing the ethereal nature of the tutu! This all might be a contrast to the wartime environment, but ballet is truly magical because it brings its own brand of magic into the world no matter what!
This little trip back in time shows us the enduring power of ballet. In the midst of global turmoil, a passion for art and beauty stayed strong, as evidenced by the bustling ballet scene and celebrations happening all over the world in 1943! Remember lovelies, no matter what life throws at us, beauty, creativity, and passion will always be a constant!
I'm off on another adventure next week, but before I go, a question for you!
If you could travel through time, what era would you visit for your perfect tutu adventure? Let me know in the comments! Until then, happy tutu-ing!
*Yours in pink twirls, *
Emma x
Don't forget to visit my website! www.pink-tutu.com
