Bonjour, mes amies! Welcome back to another #TutuTuesday, where we explore the wonderful world of tutus – and this week, we’re taking a trip back in time to November 23rd, 1954!
As a girl who lives and breathes all things tutu, you’d think I was born in the era of tutus, wouldn’t you? But alas, my birthdate, although lovely, came several decades after the peak of tutu fashion. So, like any self-respecting tutu enthusiast, I travel through time, seeing with my own eyes how this amazing garment evolved.
Now, I may not be a Time Lord with a TARDIS, but with the magical power of performance, I manage to fund my trips! One night I’ll be swirling on a Parisian stage, the next I’ll be performing for the Queen in London. (I told you it’s magical!)
This week’s trip saw me alight in the heart of New York City, bustling with energy, and smelling oh so faintly of popcorn and hot dogs!
You see, dear reader, while this is the year of 1954, tutus are already enjoying a revival! You’d be surprised just how influential ballet has become on everyday fashion, with designers borrowing ideas for their everyday wear. We’re seeing fuller skirts with loads of tulle, reminiscent of the Romantic Period, especially those fabulous Chopin-era ballets. It's like wearing a mini tutu everywhere! I dare say it's a good thing I pack light when travelling through time because my suitcases would be bursting with tulle and satin.
Speaking of full skirts, remember all those petticoats? We've got 'em to thank for some seriously spectacular skirts this year! And if you happen to catch the new New York City Ballet, George Balanchine has choreographed some pieces with a tutu focus, bringing back a more dramatic form. These tutus have multiple layers with more frills than ever before, making each movement a breathtaking cascade of soft tulle! I saw a particularly fabulous performance of The Nutcracker, and you simply can’t imagine how enchanting it was!
Of course, what's a visit to the Big Apple without some shopping, darling?
Oh, darling, did I mention Macy’s? My dear! Absolutely fabulous! They are absolutely positively bursting with the cutest, twirliest party dresses for little girls, all featuring voluminous skirts that would make a ballerina blush! My own favourite shop though? It’s a quaint, old-world gem called Lord & Taylor, with an impeccable selection of ballerina flats, silk scarves, and even delicate handbags perfect for holding all those precious trinkets a glamorous ballerina needs.
I managed to pick up the most delicate pink shoes, almost a ballerina’s slipper with an adorably little heel, and a blush-pink handbag with delicate satin detailing for my trip back to England. Just imagine – I’ll be looking positively fashionable at Derbyshire’s railway station while I wait for the train back home!
However, I wouldn't leave New York City without talking about a ballet milestone: "The Sleeping Beauty". Yes! It’s at the Metropolitan Opera House for the week, starring none other than the illustrious Maria Tallchief, a woman whose grace and artistry are simply divine! She was captivating as Aurora, even the Prince's exquisite leaps didn't overshadow her stunning movements!
Oh my dear readers, it was absolutely divine! And let's not forget that exquisite pink tutu she wore! It was a vision of graceful femininity, swirling with every pirouette, each step a symphony of pink and white. It reminded me once again that there's truly no feeling in the world like being in a tutu. You simply feel empowered and elegant!
Well, darling, this has been an absolute whirlwind of a journey back through time! But, it's time to return to our own time. As I sit here in my little Derbyshire flat, looking at the adorable tutu I have chosen to wear for today’s post, I can’t help but smile! This week’s adventure reminds me, just like the many tutus I’ve collected, it's never too late to embrace your inner ballerina, even if your style travels through time!
Remember, darling, a little pink can go a long way! So get out there, put on a pink tutu, twirl and smile your way through the day, and remember to let your inner ballerina shine!
Until next time, love and tutus, Emma x
