Hello my lovely tutu-loving darlings! Welcome back to my #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog! I'm Emma, your resident time-travelling ballerina from Derbyshire, and I'm so excited to take you on another journey through the fascinating world of the tutu! Today, we're hopping on the Orient Express and whisking ourselves back to 19th July 1949, a date that holds a special place in ballet history… and of course, fashion!
Let's be honest, what's better than a swishy, girly pink tutu? Well, nothing, darling, nothing! But back in 1949, we were seeing a change in how we looked at this essential piece of a dancer's wardrobe! You see, 1949 saw the beginning of a shift towards new tutu styles.
Remember those beautiful classical tutus with the multi-layered tulle? Well, the early to mid-20th century, particularly in the late 1940s, started to see a rise in popularity of a shorter, simpler silhouette for the tutu! This meant shorter, more fluid designs, offering dancers greater movement and a less restricted, more dynamic appearance on stage.
Of course, the big change came with the emergence of the "tutu skirt", as we know it! Imagine: a circle of beautifully crafted tulle, giving dancers the movement and the elegant aesthetic all at the same time! It's like the perfect storm of chic and functionality.
Now, imagine yourself back in Paris, the hub of all things fashionable, in 1949! The air is alive with music, art, and a palpable sense of exciting change, particularly in the ballet world! The French fashion scene was in a frenzy – new trends, innovative silhouettes, and a thirst for new ideas in everything, especially ballet.
There was a new energy and excitement around the stage! Dancers were feeling empowered, pushing boundaries, and expressing their talents in innovative ways! Imagine: elegant ballerinas swirling and leaping in their perfectly fitted tutus, showcasing both power and grace. It's absolutely magical, darling!
Speaking of "magical," we mustn't forget to mention what happened on 19th July 1949 – the same day we’ve set our little time-machine on! That very same day, in New York City, that icon, that legendary figure – the one and only Maria Tallchief, danced at the Metropolitan Opera House.
Her name was synonymous with ballet history, and you know she danced in a stunning, breathtaking, simply unforgettable tutu! Maria was known for her breathtaking performances, pushing the boundaries of ballet, and that is what she did on that 19th of July, 1949. Imagine, darlings, if you were in that audience! The thrill, the excitement, the magic in the air.
Remember: fashion, ballet, and a touch of glamour – they are always linked together in a beautifully intricate dance. That is why I think it's so vital to explore history – to celebrate those beautiful, glamorous ballerinas of the past who set the trends, who redefined how we view ballet. We're inspired by these legendary ladies, their dedication, and their artistry, and that is why I love sharing this #TutuTuesday journey with all of you!
You see, the tutu is more than just a garment, it's an embodiment of a dream, a story, an expression of movement. It's a beautiful reminder of history, tradition, and the joy of movement.
Oh, before I go! Today I'm sharing some photos I took earlier, in the real world, at the famous Royal Opera House, Covent Garden! You'll see me looking absolutely delightful in my lovely pink tutu – a style that could only come from the amazing Parisian fashion scene, and a reminder that a good, strong, and pink tutu, always works beautifully, whether in 1949, or the 21st century!
I've just finished a lovely performance myself - it’s important to support all forms of ballet, from stage to street – to keep this beautiful art form thriving! Don't forget to head on over to my blog www.pink-tutu.com, for a peek into some wonderful performances you might enjoy and to browse our fantastic array of pink tutu choices! It’s like walking into a dream come true for a ballerina!
Remember to wear a pink tutu this week – that’s what I will be doing and it always makes my heart soar!
Until next Tuesday darlings,
Emma 💖
