Hello darlings! Emma here, back with another installment of your favourite #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog! Today we're taking a whirl through time to 31st August 1954, a date filled with sparkle and the exciting buzz of creativity. This was the golden age of ballet, where even a day trip was a fashion event, darling! So let’s put on our prettiest pink tutus (because there’s never enough pink in this world, ever!) and hop on the train for a journey through time.
You see, dear readers, being a ballet blogger means I don’t just talk about shoes and pirouettes, I get to experience it all! This week I’m whizzing back to the 50s for a peek at what was happening on stage and off, all with my trusty notebook and a love for the delightful tutus that reigned supreme back then.
Glamour on and off the stage:
Remember, my lovelies, back in the 50s, tutus weren’t just for the ballet stage – they were fashion statements! Imagine, stepping out of a gleaming train, dressed in a perfectly structured, crisp, white cotton dress with a full skirt, all reminiscent of the iconic ballerina tutus – the epitome of feminine grace. This was the time of full-skirted ball gowns and charming dresses with intricate beading – it was pure sartorial bliss. Even street-fashion was taking its cues from the stage! The full tutu aesthetic was everywhere you looked, from a swirly tea party with your friends, to dancing at a ballroom gala, the 50s knew how to create magic in simple shapes and textures!
A trip to the Royal Opera House
Picture this: August, London is a vibrant tapestry of colour, sunshine, and, of course, elegant tutus. Imagine stepping into the heart of the cultural scene at the Royal Opera House. Oh darling! The sheer grandeur and the energy of the moment were just divine! We’re talking chandeliers sparkling like stars, intricate gilded details and a symphony of elegance all around you. Then you have the performance. A truly stunning experience! You’re enthralled by the artistry, the power of the performance. The entire atmosphere is electric, like watching something magical come to life right in front of you!
Back in time – the details
Now, let’s delve into the exciting tidbits I’ve picked up on my little adventure. On the 31st August 1954, the Royal Opera House was a vibrant hub of dance! The "Royal Ballet" (then called The Sadler's Wells Ballet) showcased their impeccable skill. Imagine a dance called The Sleeping Beauty! Cinematic! And what’s more, I hear their dancers wore incredibly detailed tutus, the likes of which we would be hard-pressed to find today! Layers of soft tulle, adorned with exquisitely embroidered floral patterns, creating that romantic ethereal air that’s always my absolute favourite look! Isn't it remarkable, how time allows fashion to evolve?
And now, the secret: You’d never believe what I found on this trip! A hidden treasure! In a small boutique near the Covent Garden market, a beautiful display of vintage tutus from the era. They are almost untouched, and oh-so dreamy. I have to say, the fabric feels just as wonderful as they look! Oh! Imagine dancing in those – it would be the perfect vintage dream! Perhaps a hint for my next blog post, dear readers? I might just find a way to bring this timeless beauty to you in a vintage-inspired modern look. Can’t wait for you to see!
Why we should embrace tutus today:
My lovelies, the tutu, isn’t just a dance item, it’s a symbol of boundless creativity, elegance, and joy! And in today's world, where we’re often bombarded with trends that come and go in the blink of an eye, tutus remind us that true beauty and elegance transcends the fleeting nature of fashion. They’re about self-expression, and finding your unique style, while always keeping a sense of graceful playfulness in your steps. Now I can’t go about demanding everyone wear a tutu. What kind of an overbearing time traveler would I be? But let's make tutus a bit of fun for our day. What could be more enjoyable than dancing a little pirouette with the whimsy of a vintage tutu, as your little piece of self expression? It is certainly something to ponder!
Until next time my dears, keep your twirls going and spread a little bit of sparkle in the world. #TutuTuesday and Pink Tutus Forever!
- Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
