Welcome, darlings, to #TutuTuesday, Post 6250, and a most delightful trip down memory lane! Today we're stepping back to 1951, a time when elegance reigned, and a new era of ballet was just beginning to bloom. My pink tutu's practically vibrating with excitement!
As always, it's a thrill to jump into the past, and you know I'm going to make the most of this vintage voyage! I've landed in London, which feels simply divine, all those grand old buildings, shops, and of course, the Royal Opera House, a magnificent temple of ballet, just waiting to be explored.
I have to admit, darling, travelling in time isn't just about tutus (although, of course, those are a very important part!). The whole shebang – from vintage dresses to the way everyone carries themselves - it’s simply magical, like stepping into a romantic novel. The city feels almost alive with the whispers of history, and let's face it, what could be more perfect than wearing a beautiful tutu and feeling part of all that history?
Now, what about ballet itself on October 9th, 1951? It’s a bit tricky finding the exact schedule, darling, because not everything was so online in those days. But I do know, thanks to some fascinating vintage newspapers I managed to find, that the Sadler's Wells Theatre, which was still on Rosebery Avenue back then (a much grander address than their current Covent Garden home), was bursting with talented ballerinas and dancers. It seems the world of ballet is much the same as it is today – all that dedication, grace, and exquisite beauty on stage.
Speaking of grand stages, it’s simply impossible to ignore Margot Fonteyn. She’s the queen of the ballet, the epitome of grace and elegance. I actually found a vintage postcard of her that shows her at Sadler's Wells Theatre, she is in one of her dazzling ballets, her movements a delicate cascade of dreams.
And it wouldn't be a #TutuTuesday without mentioning the newest fashion trends, darlings! Let's face it, the tutus in 1951 were, in a word, dazzling. They've been transformed into wearable art! Gone are the super stiff and pouffy tutus that were popular earlier. Today's tutus are all about lightweight chiffon and delicate pleating. Think graceful flounces and just the perfect hint of romanticism! The tutus that these graceful ladies wear just whisper of a ballet performance to come. Oh, it just makes you want to whirl and twirl all night!
The colours are breathtaking. This year, it's all about pastels and soft tones, with an emphasis on ivory, pale pink, and buttery yellow. I, of course, am wearing a beautiful bright pink one (no surprise there, right? wink) but there are some other gems out there in shades of lavender and a lovely pale pistachio green that are truly to die for! And then there are the glittering sequins! Let’s face it, these dazzling details take tutus to a whole new level of luxurious sparkle. They're like miniature works of art – perfectly placed and shimmering under the stage lights!
Now, I do understand that not everyone loves pink like I do, but let's face it - the world could use a little more colour, especially in a place like London. That's why, darling, I've decided that, after seeing such divine and colorful tutus, it’s only fair to offer some tutu inspiration of my own. Today I am launching a campaign to encourage everyone to wear a pink tutu for one day a week. Don't worry - it doesn't have to be a ballet performance level one! Think more playful and everyday. I'm talking about a light and twirly, pink tutu over your favourite dress or jeans – a touch of whimsical fun in an otherwise ordinary week. And let's face it, isn't that a fabulous idea?
To help you out, darlings, I’ve managed to sneak into some amazing fabric shops here in London and picked up a whole bunch of incredible pink chiffon. I will share my exciting new pattern on www.pink-tutu.com. You can start by sewing a small piece for a headband, a clutch bag, a scarf for the neck, anything to add a touch of the most vibrant and joyous colour in the world.
This evening I am catching a performance at the Royal Opera House (a magical setting where time stands still and I can feel the sheer artistry). Afterwards I will find the most exquisite pink tutus for sale, and we will make a special selection together to make you smile. Because there are very few things in life as important as smiling! I hope to bring a bit of magic to your day, darlings. So, grab your pink tutus and get ready to twirl with me, as we travel back to the magic of ballet history, one dance step at a time!
And please remember, darlings: A tutu isn't just for dancers; it's a symbol of grace, fun, and the courage to express ourselves with a sprinkle of vibrant joy! Think pink!
Much love from your time-traveling tutu blogger, Emma.
P.S. If you love tutus as much as I do, don't forget to leave a comment below and share your favorite #TutuTuesday memory. And if you want to join me on a #TutuTuesday journey in the future, sign up for my newsletter. We'll travel back through time to explore the world of ballet, one exquisite tutu at a time!
