Hello my lovelies! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveler Emma here, bringing you another instalment of #TutuTuesday from my fabulously fashionable time travel adventures! I'm so thrilled you've joined me for blog post number 5858 - every week, I'm delving into the history of our beloved ballet tutus and, well, everything fabulous.
Today, we're jetting back to 4th April, 1944 - a time of great change and excitement, and oh my, have I got a story for you! But first, a little something to whet your appetite for all things pink and twirly...
Imagine this: you're in the heart of London, a little while after the Blitz. Wartime Britain might seem all drab and grey, but in the theatre district, the glamour is still alive and kicking. The lights of the West End are dazzling and the theatre programmes are bursting with the latest ballet performances. Now imagine yourself wearing a fabulous pink tutu, just like mine, flitting through the streets, perhaps even doing a little pirouette as you make your way to the theatre.
Ah, how I long to go back and experience that magic firsthand! But alas, for now, we can explore the ballet tutu history from a comfy distance, through my time machine (and thankfully, my trusty travel book).
Back to 1944: The Ballerinas are Blooming
Now, back to 1944, let's talk tutus. Despite the wartime shortages, ballet was a ray of sunshine for those seeking escape and a bit of beauty. It wasn't always easy for our ballerina friends – imagine their dancing shoes feeling worn out after performing night after night! But they certainly didn't let anything hold them back. Their graceful movements and sparkling tutus lit up the stages with joy and grace, and you can bet their dresses were as inspiring as the dances themselves.
Now, while the romantic and classic ballet tutu (you know, the one with all the tiers) was definitely in fashion back then, something else was making its entrance – the tutu de jour, a more modern, practical and sometimes even shorter version. Think a tutu made for dancing the modern style – shorter, airier, and allowing for more movement and expressive storytelling. You'd often see this in new ballet productions that embraced new ideas and movement techniques.
Speaking of ballet, guess what was performing on the 4th of April, 1944 at Sadler's Wells Theatre? It was none other than The Sleeping Beauty. This classic tale of love, slumber, and a true prince charming had been a London favourite ever since it premiered in 1890, and it was continuing to delight audiences all throughout the 1940s.
Travel Inspiration - Going to London by Train
I am completely smitten with the romantic idea of going to London on the train back in this period, seeing the fields pass by as the engine gently rumbles. This was certainly how people traveled then – an experience filled with adventure and anticipation! Just imagine being a young girl on the way to the theatre, all dressed up in your best clothes, feeling a thrill as the platform crowds parted and the steam locomotive started pulling your carriage into motion! That would be a day I would treasure.
Of course, my outfit would be oh so chic and in keeping with the fashionable trends of the time! It goes without saying, I’d be rocking a lovely pink tutu, of course, maybe even a velvet one with sparkling sequins. To add a touch of war-time flair, I’d team it with a beautiful, floral print dress, perhaps in a delicate shade of lilac or a gorgeous red, as these were popular choices for evening wear then. My hat? A wide-brimmed straw with a charming velvet ribbon. After all, one must never underestimate the power of a delightful headwear for completing the look, right?
It’s Time for Shopping!
For all you lovers of fashion like myself, there was plenty of delightful shopping to be found in London back in those days. Remember the vibrant shops along Regent Street and Bond Street? That’s where everyone flocked for all the latest and greatest, be it a pretty pair of shoes, the perfect purse, or, a brand-new, oh so glamorous pink tutu. And the beauty of it all – everything looked so stylish and classic. If I could rewind the clock to those days, just think of all the lovely places I’d visit - perhaps to purchase a new pair of delicate gloves or find a perfect pink ballet outfit!
Always Be Pink & Be Your Best You!
I truly believe that all our lives are about having a bit of fun. Be brave. Live in the moment. Let your spirit soar. And of course, do embrace your inner ballerina! Remember, darling, you can always twirl your way through any challenge and with a little imagination and a healthy dose of glitter, anything is possible.
Now, do have a lovely Tuesday. Don’t forget to rock that fabulous pink tutu (even if it’s just for an afternoon), and never ever be afraid to make a statement – and remember, you’re all stunning, beautiful, and uniquely gorgeous.
Until next Tuesday, darling!
Lots of twirling love,
Emma 🩰💖
