Hello my darlings, and welcome to another fabulous #TutuTuesday here on pink-tutu.com! It's your favourite Derbyshire girl, Emma, here, ready to whisk you away on a time-traveling journey to discover the enchanting history of the tutu, the most iconic garment in all of dance!
This week, I've landed in 1952, the very year the coronation of our Queen Elizabeth II took place. What a thrilling time to be a young lady with a love for all things elegant! Can you imagine the spectacle? I bet it was utterly divine, a true ballet of fashion and tradition!
Now, 1952 - that was a big year for the tutu. Remember, ladies, our little dance friend, the tutu, has been changing with the times for centuries. This period saw a continuation of the "Romantic Tutu", the beautiful, floaty layered design. Think graceful, delicate, with a whole lotta tulle. Just what you'd expect from a real ballerina, right?
Today's design still incorporates that quintessential lightness and flow. The fabric choice was crucial - think gauze, silk, and lots of tulle. These fabrics were perfect for capturing those glorious, twirling moments in the ballet. Remember, you don't want to get your tutu caught in the wings, dearie! 😉
Oh, but my dears, what I wouldn't give to have seen these dances in the beautiful theatre halls of this time. Imagine those lavish costumes, all the exquisite craftsmanship. Those glittering headbands and jeweled earrings! I would have adored to stroll around Covent Garden with the other ballet fans in all my fine garb!
It wasn't just about the tutus, darling. You see, fashion always plays such a significant role. In this time, post-war Britain, clothing was regaining its elegance. Ladies were stepping back into their glamour. This period saw the "New Look" hit the fashion scene, championed by none other than Christian Dior! Oh my, those cinched waists, full skirts, and luxurious fabrics! I’m sure you all wore the New Look – it just had that feminine and stylish edge that made a girl feel like a princess.
As a young lady who enjoys a good vintage shop browse, I'm always intrigued by what our fabulous predecessors donned! It inspires so many of my outfit ideas! Sometimes I think about pulling a “Back to the Future” move and grabbing my Time Traveler's Guide to Tutus! Oh, how much fun that would be!
Well, back to my time machine now! Remember, darlings, keep your tutus polished, and don't forget to wear a touch of pink! It's a lovely hue for brightening your days!
Keep twirling, my lovelies!
XOXO
Emma Pink Tutu Queen
P.S. Don't forget to subscribe to pink-tutu.com to receive a free printable vintage tutu design sheet. Let's all embrace the enchantment of ballet history!
P.P.S. And I just can't end this blog without telling you all what's happening on this spectacular 13th May 1952! This is the date the fabulous British Ballet, founded in London in 1946, performed a double-bill, featuring the stunning work "Pineapple Poll", with choreography by the ever-talented John Cranko. Now you see why it's been called the iconic ballet performance of the decade! You have to have a look at some of the old news articles – oh my, such a magnificent time. I bet you all had the time of your life!
And for those of you, like myself, who love all things travel, the Orient Express made its first journey that day. How exciting, wouldn’t you agree, my darling lovelies? So much to explore!
