Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, and welcome back to #TutuTuesday, the weekly blog dedicated to all things tutu-licious! Today, we’re spinning back to 20th May 1952, a date brimming with fashion, glamour, and yes, of course, tutus!
This week, I found myself in the heart of Paris, the very city where tutus truly became synonymous with ballet. The air hummed with a blend of chic Parisian energy and a whiff of artistic passion. And trust me, I found myself completely enthralled! I’m just back from witnessing a breathtaking performance of Giselle at the Paris Opera Ballet (it was divine, I’ll tell you all about it later!), and now, armed with fresh insights and a hefty dose of Parisian inspiration, I’m ready to take you on a journey through tutu history.
Before we embark on our historical dance, let me tell you a bit about how I got here. It seems this week’s time-travel adventure involved a particularly glamorous train journey! I left my Derbyshire home on a whistle-stop adventure in my most fabulous tutu (naturally) and a little floral print dress I found at a vintage market. The ride itself was utterly charming, and I’d recommend it to anyone who wishes for a dash of vintage glamour!
But back to our tutus, my lovelies. We’re talking 1952! A time when tutus weren’t just for dancers – oh no! In 1952, tutus were a symbol of freedom, elegance, and a little bit of playful whimsy. Think Parisian fashion icons in dreamy ballgowns, Christian Dior’s “New Look,” and a sprinkle of ballet influence that made every lady feel like a ballerina! I’ve got to admit, it was wonderful to see such an appreciation for beauty and movement outside the theatre, and for once, I didn't feel quite so out of place!
This particular day in 1952 wasn’t a huge landmark date, but it holds significance nonetheless! It was just one year after the world was stunned by Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation. A grand and glamorous occasion filled with tradition and elegant fashion, you can bet your bottom dollar that the ladies of London and beyond were embracing the timeless elegance of tutus. This, my dears, was the era when a little twirl added just the right amount of chic to every ensemble!
However, for all you aspiring ballerinas out there (or just those with a soft spot for tulle), 1952 brought an even bigger revelation to the dance world! The New York City Ballet, the famous dance company known for their bold, daring and groundbreaking approach to dance, was only just a baby, established in 1948, and just four years later was making history with its debut at *the Metropolitan Opera House!* I can only imagine the anticipation and excitement surrounding such a significant moment.
In fact, it seems that 1952 marked a real turning point in the evolution of tutus, and not just in New York City. Just look at how much our perception of dance and style changed since the early days! You see, during the fin de siècle of the 19th century, tutus were a lot different. The Romantic era, for instance, was all about flowy, long, ethereal skirts, and we have legendary choreographers like Marius Petipa and Mikhail Fokine to thank for this elegant era. It was all about expressing feelings and telling stories through beautiful, poetic movements.
But in 1952, the landscape had shifted dramatically! New York City Ballet was at the forefront of a new era of dance and style. George Balanchine, one of the most famous choreographers in history, was taking the ballet world by storm. He championed a more streamlined and powerful look for tutus. Remember that classic ballet you love, “Serenade,” well, he debuted it in 1952! Just picture those stunning, flowing tutus, crafted with a bit of bold asymmetry, capturing the essence of ballet's elegant movement, yet allowing a certain sense of free and natural flow – It was the perfect recipe for captivating the world of dance, making the choreographed movements appear natural. And to top it all off, the whole affair felt a lot more modern.
But why focus solely on the past, you might ask? Because the power of the tutu transcends time! And that’s precisely what makes our weekly #TutuTuesday so special! It’s not just about history, but also about a spark of playful inspiration. We may live in a completely different world now, but one thing that hasn't changed is that magic moment when you put on a tutu and instantly feel transformed!
From classical performances to modern choreography, tutus have consistently served as a canvas for incredible expressions. They've transformed and evolved alongside the ever-changing dance landscape, but one thing remains constant - their ability to evoke pure magic.
Now, just because it’s #TutuTuesday doesn’t mean I forget about fashion! Here in Paris, I found a stunning shop called Le Bon Marché. It's a haven for every fashion enthusiast, boasting luxurious collections from a mix of famous designers. My dears, this place is like a dream come true, especially if you’re a lover of tutus, exquisite lace, and vintage finds! I almost wished I could pack up their entire store and transport it back to Derbyshire, although my train tickets only stretch so far!
The shop was absolutely teeming with unique fabrics. From crisp white linens to delicate laces, I couldn't resist weaving my way through the racks, gathering a heap of beautiful vintage finds. A stunning scarlet vintage gown immediately caught my eye! Just the right combination of vibrant colour, vintage chic, and dramatic flair! I couldn't resist giving it a little spin - you can tell I have a serious weakness for a good twirl! The soft scarlet was perfect for highlighting my skin tone, and the billowing material was incredibly elegant - not to mention its perfect danceability!
Oh, and I have a secret, I just love Dior's iconic "New Look!" And, yes, the beautiful 1950s “New Look” certainly wasn’t lacking a tutu or two! While you can find this timeless look in so many modern iterations, I’m drawn to its romantic essence, which resonates with me in the same way I find myself entranced by the elegance of tutus. Imagine a soft tulle skirt gently swishing alongside that iconic "New Look" silhouette - it's almost as though the "New Look" whispered to the world to embrace the femininity of the tutu, a timeless statement piece that can instantly transform any ensemble!
There’s so much I’m yet to discover here in Paris. It’s bursting with historical elegance and a creative spirit that feels as modern as tomorrow. I’m planning to spend a few more days in this enchanting city before I make my way back home! But, I just had to share this whirlwind tour with you, dear readers, and hope that it inspired you as much as it has inspired me!
Now, as always, I must go. I’ve a wonderful little cafe nearby I plan on visiting, followed by a performance at the Folies Bergère (rumour has it it’s bursting with feathers and sparkle!), and maybe a little shop around the Champs-Élysées! But before I go, I have one final piece of wisdom for you, my dear lovelies, never underestimate the power of a pink tutu to transform a moment, and perhaps even the world! 😉💖 And please, tell me, what did you think of my adventure this week? Share your favourite Parisian stories and ballet moments below! I simply love reading your comments.
See you next #TutuTuesday!
Lots of twirling love, Emma 💖🩰
