#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1950-06-20

Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite tutu-obsessed time-travelling blogger, bringing you another dose of tutu history. This week, we're hopping aboard the time machine and zipping back to June 20th, 1950. Grab your favourite pink teacup, put on your prettiest petticoats, and let's get ready to explore the world of dance through the lens of those magical, billowing creations – the tutu!

Now, picture this: the world's a little different back in 1950. The air is full of the sweet, exciting smell of possibility, and the war is finally behind us. People are yearning for lighthearted fun, for elegance and beauty, and what better way to express that than with a dazzling display of movement and fashion?

I’ve arrived in the City of Lights itself - Paris, darling! It's where all the latest trends in dance and fashion are born, just as they are today. Imagine – the cobbled streets are bustling with excited chatter, the chicest cafes are alive with laughter, and everyone seems to be dressed to the nines.

As I step out of my stylish train carriage (I always travel in style, naturally!), I can already feel the buzz of the ballet world. This era is all about classical ballet. This isn't your modern, edgy ballet; it's elegant, precise, and oozing with grace.

This afternoon, I’m lucky enough to catch a performance at the prestigious Opéra Garnier, the grand old dame of Paris theatre. It’s one of those iconic theatres you dream of stepping into. Imagine towering columns, glittering chandeliers, and a red velvet stage that simply beckons for dance.

Tonight, they're presenting a masterpiece – Swan Lake! It's still the jewel in the crown of ballet even today, and it's no surprise it's the talk of the town. And believe me, everyone in Paris has something to say about this beautiful ballet.

The ballerinas take the stage, their tulle tutus floating and swirling around their bodies like a graceful cloud of gossamer. Just watching their every movement fills my heart with joy – so perfectly disciplined, yet effortless. Their white tutus are classic, romantic, and beautifully symbolic of innocence, grace, and the beauty of the swans they are portraying.

Now, let’s talk tutus!

For those of you new to my world, let me explain – the tutu is more than just a piece of fabric; it's a symbol, an expression of artistry, and the most important fashion statement in the world of ballet.

In 1950, we see two main types of tutus taking center stage:

• The Romantic Tutu: This flowing beauty, made with multiple layers of tulle, has that soft, cloud-like effect I love so much. Perfect for those romantic ballerinas who float across the stage.
• The Classical Tutu: More structured and dramatic, this tutu is usually made with a tighter fitting bodice and shorter layers of tulle, offering a stunning, athletic silhouette. This is your powerful ballerina, making a statement.

Both of these tutus are true classics, and they are absolutely essential to every ballerina’s wardrobe. They’re both so versatile and so stunning – they simply demand to be admired, both on stage and in everyday life!

The excitement doesn’t stop there! In this month, June 1950, there are two ballet performances I absolutely can't miss:

• “The Nutcracker” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: This iconic ballet is making waves across Europe. From grand theatres to intimate venues, audiences are being captivated by this beautiful Christmas-themed classic, featuring a ballet dancer extraordinaire called Margot Fonteyn who I can't wait to see. She's already known as one of the greatest ballerinas of our time, and she has her sights set on New York. I’ve even heard she is going to try her hand at modern dance!
• “Romeo and Juliet” by Sergei Prokofiev: The heartbreaks of love and loss told through the lyrical, moving ballet is bringing people to their feet.

Oh, how I wish we had video back in 1950 to capture these dazzling moments! Imagine seeing all those stunning tutus in full flow!

And of course, the latest tutu designs are the hottest topic. Every ballerina in Paris is excited about a new boutique selling exquisite, handmade tutus! From shimmering sequins to vibrant, flowing tulle, there’s a tutu for every taste! It’s my mission to see these tutus and to report back to all you darling readers.

But, you see, my time in 1950 is coming to a close. My ballet adventures have shown me that the magic of ballet – and the stunning spectacle of the tutu – remains just as relevant and as dazzling today as it was all those years ago.

As I board the train back to my time, my head swirling with the melodies of Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev, I feel truly inspired by the timeless beauty of the tutu and the captivating power of dance. It’s a world that I can't wait to explore again and again!

Stay fabulous, and remember, a pink tutu always makes you feel good.

Lots of love, Emma

My darlings, have you seen a beautiful tutu lately? If you have, I'd love to hear about it! Please, do share your stories, your favourite tutus, and your thoughts about my travel back in time. And of course, if you are inspired, try and find a tutu in the colour of your dreams – pink, of course!

We are a community, and it's always so delightful to hear from all of you lovely, tutu-loving readers!

xx