Hello, my darling Tutu-licious readers! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu aficionado, back again with another slice of #TutuTuesday history for you. Grab yourselves a spot of Earl Grey tea, put your feet up, and get ready for a trip back in time!
Today, I'm transporting us all to the glorious 5th October 1943, right in the heart of wartime London. While the rest of the world is grappling with global conflict, we ballerinas, my dears, are holding strong on the home front! And you know what else? Tutu fashion is absolutely thriving!
Now, picture this. You’re whisked through time to 1943, stepping out of my trusty, slightly battered time machine in a little boutique near London's Covent Garden. The air hums with the buzz of excitement as wartime Londoners, bless their souls, do what they do best – carry on!
This period is one of rationing, and a sense of communal spirit fills the streets. Everyone is doing their bit for the war effort, from planting victory gardens to saving every little scrap of material. This frugality extends to the world of ballet too, though believe me, you wouldn't know it from the tutus!
Stepping into the boutique, the scent of floral perfume and freshly laundered cotton wafts over you, mingling with the lingering scent of lavender. Silk is a rare commodity, darling, so even in 1943, you’re likely to find these exquisite tutus crafted from other luxurious materials – tulle, satin, even sheer, lightweight chiffons. Imagine, darling! Imagine the way the light would dance across that gorgeous material, catching on the stage in all its ethereal glory!
Of course, as with every era, the fashions of 1943 have a distinctive touch. There’s an emphasis on streamlined elegance and grace. A sense of pragmatism shines through – tutus were practical too, so think soft, gentle lines and a slightly more fitted look. Imagine, darling, the way they'd move so beautifully on the stage – graceful, feminine, just like our dreams!
This 1943 era is brimming with ballerinas who are just dying to burst out in a perfect twirl. They're the epitome of wartime courage, pushing through the challenges, sharing the beauty of ballet with audiences, giving everyone a little escape from the real world.
So, where else to be on 5th October 1943, other than in the majestic theatre itself, for the grand premiere of "Giselle"! Imagine it, dear ones - the plush red velvet seats, the expectant hush as the orchestra begins, the spotlight rising, the music swelling! Then, a vision in white, that magical flutter of tulle, a swirling masterpiece. That, darling, is the power of a tutu! It transports you. It inspires. It shows everyone, even in the most trying times, how beautiful life can be!
Of course, the theatre isn't just about the ballet. The excitement around "Giselle" is catching, filling the city with a vibrant atmosphere. On the streets, outside the theatre doors, a joyful wave of fashion engulfs us.
Now, darling, in this era, a dress that hits just above the knee is considered revolutionary! What are the darlings wearing? Pencil skirts are all the rage! I simply adore this elegant, lady-like style, so chic and graceful, with their sharp lines. This sharp elegance can make such an incredible pairing for a fabulously voluminous tutu, and of course, it's another fashion trend that keeps making a comeback today, bringing that same elegance and sophistication. Oh, the joy!
But, a word of caution: remember wartime restrictions, my loves. The colour palettes are a little muted, with lots of browns, grays, and navy blues, as well as a sprinkle of vibrant red or blue to spice things up. Imagine those dramatic contrasting colours against a vibrant pink tutu - simply gorgeous!
Another must-have is the iconic, feminine floral print, adorning dresses, coats, and scarves, bringing that sense of vibrant cheerfulness amidst a less vibrant era. We love that bold floral flourish, and we always love our colourful tutu designs too! And that's where the fun part begins!
I picture myself arriving at the theatre, resplendent in my beautiful pink tutu - a burst of color amongst all those subtle shades, a true testament to my passion for pink! Imagine, darling, the whispers of “look at that tutu,” as my petticoat swirls out around me, an explosion of vibrant pink that defies the dreary limitations of wartime.
We mustn’t forget the essential finishing touch, my lovelies: hats! Fascinators and pillbox hats are absolutely all the rage. And if you really want to bring a bit of the theatrical flair to your wartime attire, maybe even throw a little flower in your hair! So much chic!
But we’re not just about clothes, darling! I'm here to spread the tutu joy in every single corner of the world, every single Tuesday. And this isn't just about fancy dresses, it's about celebrating life! Because in times of great struggle, we must find joy wherever we can, right, darling?
That’s what ballet is all about - finding a place of magic, of beauty, of boundless joy. That’s the spirit I want to see, reflected in every twirl of a tutu. We live, darling, in a world where joy is always possible!
And remember, this time travelling tutu enthusiast isn’t about forcing everyone into pink, darling. It’s about celebrating the colours of your own personality, letting that radiant sparkle shine through. Be brave. Be daring. Be your own unique and magical you, just like our dazzling pink tutu!
That's all from me today, darlings! Now, go out there and twirl with the grace and style of a 1943 ballet star! Don’t forget to keep it fun, keep it bright, and most importantly, keep those twirling shoes sparkling!
Until next Tuesday, darling!
Yours always, Emma xoxo
