#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1946-11-26

Hello my lovely tutufolk! It's Emma here, back for another Tuesday with another journey through the fabulous history of the tutu. Grab your favourite pink tutu and let's take a spin back in time, because today we're going right back to 1946!

Now, 1946 was a rather pivotal year for ballet, don't you think? It was just after the war, so the world was starting to breathe a collective sigh of relief, and there was a real sense of optimism in the air. Everyone was eager for a little bit of joy and beauty after all they'd been through, and ballet certainly provided that. Think delicate steps, graceful leaps and shimmering tulle, all fuelled by the joy of the return to peacetime life!

This week I found myself in glorious New York City! Just as today, New York was the city that never sleeps and the beating heart of the ballet world. It’s so exciting, and I’ve even managed to get myself a little gig dancing with a troupe! That’s what happens when you have your own "Tutu-licious Times” blog – the more you dance the more opportunities there are! I love being able to share all these exciting experiences with you, so here is the scoop from my latest time travel trip.

Just before I set off to Manhattan this week, I was in London. Of course I took in a show at The Royal Opera House Covent Garden, a ballet extravaganza fit for royalty. I spotted some amazing tulle masterpieces, which of course are perfect inspiration for a fashionista like me. In those days they were already experimenting with the cut of the tutu to accentuate the grace of the dance steps. Just beautiful!

Right, let’s travel back to November 1946. You know I like to see what was trending for clothes this month. What can we expect to see for our ladies in the world of fashion? I have it right here in my fashion diary. Let's dive in and get inspired, darling!

November 1946 sees a celebration of classic femininity. Think flowing A-line skirts, nipped-in waists with the ever popular pencil skirts and feminine blouses. We're all about softness and elegance in 1946. It's truly the golden age of grace and glamour.

• The "New Look": A definite must-have! Christian Dior’s New Look made a big splash this month with its emphasis on wide skirts and cinched waists. This was all about feminine elegance and the comeback of fashion to reflect the beautiful side of life. I found this dress at a lovely boutique here in New York. I think it's going to be a real eye-catcher when I’m waltzing down Fifth Avenue.

• Tulle – it was definitely around then! Remember those full tulle tutus that the ballerinas would pirouette in. It looks as if a soft and subtle approach to tulle, it's used for evening wear in skirts, full skirts or even added to some of the “New Look” skirts. That was a real winner for high fashion parties. Just gorgeous.

• Shoes - My favourite! 1946 was the year of the pointed-toe pumps, very ladylike, very smart. You could go for a classic black, for every day, or add a dash of colour with some scarlet or emerald. Now a pop of colour on the foot, wouldn't that look fab paired with my latest tutus? I am dreaming about buying some scarlet pumps!

What’s happening backstage? Let me tell you a secret, it’s exciting and sparkling. Let’s chat about the Ballet world this week!

• A New Star : One ballet darling who made a big entrance on this date, was the dazzling Margot Fonteyn! This gorgeous, talented English ballerina was dancing the leading role of Giselle. I can imagine the magic and beauty in her every move, captivating audiences with every twirl.

• Delicate Delights: Tulle had evolved from its earlier days, and they were starting to experiment with more delicate layers to create airy, floaty and feminine designs for the dancers' costumes. Think layers of soft pink, sky blue or buttercup yellow with contrasting colours for ribbons. It really helped create those “fairytale” moments on stage! I’m imagining how the lights must have shone on these ethereal tutus… just lovely.

Just before leaving New York to make my way home, I was exploring some vintage shops near Fifth Avenue when I saw the most amazing tutu. It was definitely older than the time I travelled to and it was all made from fine mesh! Oh, what a gorgeous vintage design and perfect for a photo op! You all know my motto, it's “pink tutus everywhere”. They just bring magic and sparkle to any occasion.

I hope my trip to the USA this week has inspired you to find your very own tutu! What are your favourite colours for tutus, darling? Let me know in the comments below. And keep your eye out for the latest vintage pieces because those gems are waiting for you just waiting to be twirled and loved!

Until next week, keep shining brightly!

Emma ##