Hello darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu aficionado, and welcome back to another whirlwind journey through the history of ballet and, of course, our beloved tutus!
Today, we’re travelling back in time to the summer of 1952! Grab your tickets for the next train, because this one’s heading straight for Paris, the heart of the ballet world, where tutus have been twirling, spinning, and dazzling audiences for centuries.
Stepping Back into the '50s: Where Ballet Met Couture
The 1950s, as you might remember, was a time of fabulous change, with everything from music to fashion to, of course, dance. It was a time when elegant silhouettes and feminine forms were embraced, and the tutu was a beautiful, elegant, and iconic representation of the decade. It's no wonder they’re still as adored today as they were back then!
Now, I must confess, finding a specific “tutu” from August 19th, 1952, is about as hard as catching a snowflake! Sadly, they weren’t quite as documented as today. Imagine – a world before Instagram! I shiver just thinking about it! But don’t worry – the fashion world in 1952 was more than generous when it came to showing off the grace and beauty of ballet, and by extension, the amazing tutus they wore.
On August 19th, 1952 … oh, it's just so hard to narrow down!
The world of ballet was alive with activity! All around Paris, and beyond, young dancers would have been stretching and perfecting their pirouettes, getting ready for performances and recitals. This time of year was a perfect time for the lighter, more airy productions of the time, which is my personal favourite – I’m a girl who likes to stay light on my toes!
Now, remember those grand ballets we always love, the big ones like "Swan Lake" and "Giselle?" They would have been making the rounds, captivating audiences, just like they do today. It's no wonder that tutus were (and are) essential to their enchantment, they add that extra sprinkle of magical fairy dust!
Speaking of enchantment… let's get to what I absolutely love most about tutus - they’re more than just an outfit, they’re a feeling.
Why I Love a Tutu? (Or Why You Should)
Tutus represent not just an amazing stage presence, they capture so many feelings at once: freedom, elegance, artistry… pure bliss. In a tutu, you are allowed to feel graceful, strong, confident, and above all, beautiful. Just look at these classic, stunning pieces… They're a beautiful blend of classic and artistic - I could twirl for days in a piece like this. The fabric just glides and floats and, let's face it, they make you feel like you could take on the world - all while looking impossibly stylish!
**(I just had to show you a bit of tutu eye candy! Forgive me for getting distracted!)
Now, back to our 1952 tour: What better way to experience this magical time than to actually see some of the wonderful, inspiring creations?
Shopping Spree for a Time Traveler? Why, yes please!
Let’s dive into the fashion trends, and of course, our precious tutus!
1952 saw beautiful, fluid lines, elegant A-lines, full skirts (tutu lovers rejoice!), and everything in beautiful pastels, and a generous amount of delicate lace. It was all about showing off that feminine form!
As for the tutus, think delicate and airy – they wouldn't have been the full-bodied ones we associate with classic ballet productions. The iconic tulle wasn't as prevalent as it would become. But what we see were stunning layered pieces. Layers of gauzy fabrics helped create graceful, movement-friendly designs. Imagine light and whimsical, and a bit romantic - that's how we'd see those 1952 tutus!
One of my favorite aspects of 1950s fashion (and how it ties into tutus, of course), was its elegance and the way it celebrated the feminine. I love the delicate floral embellishments, the ribbons, the soft colors — all those details that really elevate any outfit. And those colors... pale blues, yellows, pinks – they always bring a smile to my face.
Speaking of pink – did someone say pink?!
I know you’ve been dying for me to get to that topic!
Pink Power, Even Back Then!
I’ll never be one to shy away from pink. As I said, pink is my everything!
But, in 1952, pink was more than just a color. It was an expression of grace and charm. I think I just fell a bit in love with it even more. I can only imagine all the darling ballerina dresses that would have been in all those gorgeous shades.
Think of those vibrant pinks – pale pinks that blend so well with other colours… It was all about making a statement, without ever needing to be too bold! But remember, this wasn't just any pink, it was "ballerina pink!" The perfect shade to match those twirling tutus and all that gorgeous 1950s fashion!
You've got to admit - the ballet and fashion world have always had this incredible sense of imagination, elegance, and whimsy, even back in the '50s, that truly embodies a love for everything pink, even more so, pink tutus. And those who haven’t embraced the tutu, let’s make that a part of your 2023, ok?!
The Timeless Appeal of the Tutu
This brings us back to why I believe tutus are such a beloved piece – even today! There’s just this certain magical something that instantly evokes a sense of elegance, creativity, and sheer delight. That, my darling, is the magic of the tutu! It’s truly a testament to a dancer’s spirit and creativity, and their passion to express themselves through movement. I could gush on about it for days…
I truly love the timeless nature of tutus.
Let's continue to be inspired by all those lovely 1950s dancers, and let’s celebrate the art and elegance of the ballet world! You don't have to be a dancer to appreciate a wonderful tutu (though it doesn’t hurt)!
Now go find that gorgeous pink tulle, and make your world a little more sparkly and beautiful - after all, it's always time for Tutu Tuesday!
Until next time, remember: Be brave, be fabulous, and most importantly… wear a tutu!
Love,
Emma xoxo
