Hello darlings, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet! It's Tutu Tuesday, which means it's time for a little trip down memory lane… with a splash of pink, of course! This week, my time machine (well, it's actually a rather dashing old train carriage I've repurposed – much more stylish than those dusty old metal boxes) has deposited me in 1948, a glorious time for ballet and fashion. Buckle your pink shoes, dearies, and come along for the ride!
I simply adore the 1940s, particularly the later half! This decade marked a significant change in how the world looked at ballet. It was the era of Margot Fonteyn, that graceful goddess of the stage! Seeing her perform felt like watching a dream unfurl, all delicate leaps and lyrical beauty. She had a particular passion for the ballerina’s classic tutu – you know, the full, bell-shaped design that swirled and twirled like spun sugar! It was truly an explosion of pinkness, with ruffles and tiers galore, and I have to admit, I'm rather partial to that style myself!
So, let’s talk tutus. Where would we be without them? My personal favourite shade for a tutu? You already know, darling! Pink, of course. Every shade from pale blush to bubblegum pink, but always pink. It's simply the perfect colour for twirling, for feeling light as air, and for celebrating all things beautiful. It’s also a rather happy and feminine colour, a little splash of magic for everyday life, and isn't that what we all need a bit of?
1948 was a fabulous time for tutus. There was a real sense of innovation in the dance world. Ballet companies like the Sadler's Wells Ballet (who are now known as the Royal Ballet) were bursting with energy, and new choreography was a dazzling affair, brimming with intricate footwork and swirling tutus. Oh, I do love the twirls!
And the fashions, oh the fashions! This period was all about glamour and a return to femininity. It was post-war, with a sweet, romantic air, perfect for twirling in a full tutu. Imagine flowing skirts, elegant lines, and that stunning feminine silhouette, all tied together with the perfect bow, and you’ve got 1940s style right there. And guess what was on everyone’s minds? That’s right! It was a real golden era for tutus! They were on every dancer and in every shop window! It was practically an obligation to have one in your wardrobe, and for good reason, because they are just so versatile! For an evening out or even just for tea with a friend, there's nothing quite like a tutu.
To say that my heart is still beating from my recent visit to this incredible era, is an understatement. 1948 held such amazing beauty – ballet was truly thriving! I’ve even picked up a couple of tips on making my own tutus, because nothing makes me happier than having a full wardrobe of tutus to choose from, and of course, nothing but pink will do!
Oh, did I forget to mention? November the 2nd 1948 – that was the date my trip fell upon! – held a special significance: it was the premiere of a ballet production I simply adore: "The Prince of the Pagodas!" Now this is a real spectacle, featuring tutus galore! All that swirling pink! The dancing was spectacular. My jaw practically hit the floor – and that’s not just the effects of all that time travelling, although the travel by train can sometimes leave one feeling a bit off kilter!
The story of "The Prince of the Pagodas" is so wonderfully fantastical. It’s about this lovely Princess who, you guessed it, gets lost in the land of the Pagodas and gets rescued by her beloved! Isn’t it utterly charming? But let’s face it, the real star of the show is the stunning tutu designs! If I could create my own ballet, oh dear, it would involve endless tiers and yards and yards of flowing fabric – nothing but pink and all the shimmering lights and sparkles.
Right then, my lovely lovelies, I'm off to add a few new tutu designs to my collection, because nothing quite says ‘happy’ and ‘fashion-forward’ quite like a full, fluffy pink tutu! Until next Tuesday, I'll be twirling and shopping and daydreaming about a world bathed in pink!
