#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1954-03-16

Hello, darlings! Emma here, your very own pink-tutu-wearing time traveller, bringing you another delightful dose of ballet history. This week, we're stepping back to the 16th of March, 1954. Can you imagine, 1954?! Just picture it - poodle skirts, bobby socks, and... tutus? Yes, tutus!

This was the year the choreographer Jerome Robbins gave us the magnificent ballet Fancy Free! I tell you, you should definitely have a look for a film version of that! You might find it a little dated compared to our sleek, modern shows, but the music is just divine. I especially love how those sailors, the stars of the ballet, have to find their way home. It’s a story that's always so relevant to life, don't you think?

This day in 1954 also saw the opening night of The Royal Ballet's production of Cinderella, a ballet set in Vienna, Austria, that starred our beloved Margot Fonteyn. I’ve always loved that ballet, a little magic with lots of lovely tutus, of course! Can you even imagine wearing a tutu in Vienna? How exquisite! The cobblestone streets and that magnificent imperial palace - pure romantic inspiration. I dream of stepping into the historical heart of Europe, dressed in a delicate pink tutu, just like Margot. Wouldn't it be absolutely divine?

Of course, no visit to Vienna is complete without a delightful visit to Cafe Sacher for some beautiful Viennese chocolate cake and, of course, a stunning cup of coffee. How could anyone not be charmed by the aroma? It's such a lovely, romantic atmosphere in the cafes and cafes of Vienna!

Vienna, you know, it is such a magical city! In the days around March the 16th, 1954 a lot of Austrian and European fashion was centered around the elegance of traditional attire, which, while we see as fashion nowadays, was very practical back then, making it so very important for everyday life. They had exquisite styles! And what's most interesting is how these ideas and fashions started to influence everything from the stage to high fashion in Paris, London and New York. That cross-pollination of style across Europe and beyond, isn't it fascinating?

Speaking of Paris, don't think that our Parisian sisters were missing out! Parisian boutiques were bursting with new, delightful fashions for the Spring of 1954. In Paris, at this time, we're thinking pleated skirts, full skirts, lots of colours (not just pastel pink, although pink was always chic), and an air of effortless sophistication.

I do love Paris! The excitement, the glamour, the endless opportunity to be drenched in fashion! It's such an inspiring place! If I ever do a Paris tutu shopping spree in this era, I will absolutely be sharing the fashion highlights with you.

Now, imagine being at a Royal Ballet performance in 1954, swirling and twirling in my beautiful pink tutu, surrounded by elegant women and men. Such elegance, such style. You know, I simply love it when ballet becomes theatre, a grand performance on a dramatic, lit stage with costumes, elaborate sets and the sound of the grand orchestra behind the ballet! It’s an experience, isn't it? The colours, the emotions, the excitement… and the chance for the entire world to see my delightful pink tutu as I dance my heart out. Now wouldn’t that be divine?

And there you have it, my lovelies! Another peek into ballet history, another glimpse of our past, all from the delicate comfort of my pink tutu. As ever, my dearest tutu wearers, remember – every day can be a #TutuTuesday if you let it! Do take a twirl, and never be afraid to show off your lovely selves.

Love, Emma

Don't forget to share your favourite tutu moments with me! Head over to my website www.pink-tutu.com for more #TutuTuesday posts, and keep up the twinkle!