Hello darlings, and welcome to #TutuTuesday! It’s your girl, Emma, here, back with another instalment of my totally fabulous Ballet Tutu History. I’m buzzing to be in New York City today – can you believe it, New York City in 1955? Honestly, this place is a dream for a girl who loves tutus, ballet, and vintage fashion.
This week, I’ve chosen a truly delightful date - August 23rd, 1955 - and oh darling, I am brimming with stories and fashion insights.
As usual, I’m writing to you straight from the grand old Metropolitan Opera House, sitting in a gorgeous velvet seat, just like the New York Times reviewer did in 1955 when they said "A delightful lightness filled the hall… a sense of genuine enchantment was experienced… the stage lights cast a rosy glow upon a world of pink tulle and dreams." They really nailed it, don't you think? 🥰 I’m feeling rather enchanted myself, perched on this velvet cushion. There's something so special about watching the ballet live in the era when tutus were still at the pinnacle of their fairytale glamour!
But before we delve into today’s performances (and I do have a couple of stunners to tell you about), let's first take a peek back in time, at fashion and the evolution of the ballet tutu. I mean, what would ballet be without its iconic tutus?! It's simply unthinkable, darlings!
So, where were we in 1955?
By this point in history, tutus were evolving fast! The mid-1900s saw a fascinating change – we see the classic Romantic tutu morphing into the more daring, shorter, “boulevard” style tutus that became increasingly popular for choreographies like Les Sylphides.
The romantic style, you know the big pouffy ones with the long layers of tulle, still dominated many ballets but those fabulous new, shorter, almost "peek-a-boo" skirts were simply stunning! It was the era of innovation in both ballet design and the artistry of the dancers – a whirlwind of inspiration for any tutu-lover like myself!
Fashion - The Perfect Complement
Remember, ladies, the mid 1950s was an era when a “New Look” dominated fashion. And we must agree – these gorgeous silhouettes were the perfect pairing to the tutu! Think “Christian Dior’s” elegant A-line skirts, cinched waists, and full skirts with *a touch of * "tutu" inspiration.
Imagine it - picture the beautiful ballet dancers adorned in their light, flowing tutus, paired with the sharp elegance of those mid-century designer dresses! What a delightful synergy, wouldn't you say? 🩰👗
And did I tell you? I've been shopping for inspiration on Fifth Avenue today, darling! I’m completely smitten with those adorable little hats and gloves worn with that era's dresses - just picture it - a delightful pink tutu with a pink hat with a tiny little bird feather tucked on the side! Magnifique! 💖
This Week's Ballerina Showcase
So, now for those superb performances. I splurged and treated myself to tickets to two ballet spectacles this week. Both shows were absolute highlights of my NYC tutu-lover experience, so settle in with your pink tea (because you're already in a totally fabulous pink mood, aren't you?) - and *prepare to be *enchanted! 💖
1. The Metropolitan Opera's Ballet Gala:* A truly memorable night, darlings! The *Metropolitan Opera staged a breathtaking Ballet Gala with a stunning display of talent and breathtaking costumes! I almost burst into tears, it was so moving, I swear. The beautiful swirling tutus with a palette of delicate blues and pinks - it was like the very essence of dreams come to life.
- The Giselle act was sensational! The graceful, whimsical moves of the corps de ballet – the ballerinas simply melted into the air with every movement! I can't describe it - the music, the story, the beauty of those stunning costumes - it all comes together for a magical experience!
2. The Royal Ballet's " La Bayadere" - A Spectacular! I mean WOW! The Royal Ballet took the stage, and they simply *dazzled! And La Bayadere 's tutus are really something special. I must say – this show takes breathtaking to a whole new level. The costume designs – so regal, so intricate, with tiers upon tiers of lavish tulle, they made every dancer a true royal diva! The music, the choreography, the *beautiful dancers, * everything about the show was a must-see for any ballet fan and any tutu-lover like myself!
A Brief Detour on La Bayadere tutus: I have to say a few more words about those stunning costumes! The grand tutus in this ballet are simply spectacular. The use of those elaborate embellishments - with shimmering jewels, glittering beads, and fine beading, the level of artistry in the design and * *the craftsmanship is exquisite. I even tried a peek under the costumes after the curtain came down (shhhh! Don't tell anyone - it's a dancer's secret) - they had even embroidered detailed motifs onto those beautiful tutus! A testament to the time, the care, and the love poured into their creations.
Travel Tales from Derbyshire!
It's time for me to travel home, darlings, because of course, we’ve got another ballet show to review for next week’s post. You can find me clacking along the platform at Grand Central Station (because we always have to look our best - even while commuting!). The glamour of that Victorian train station has always captivated me, it feels like I've stepped into a book! I even find a sweet tutu-themed tote bag to carry with me. The trains in New York really have so much character. There’s just a certain magic in the train carriage's dark wooden seats, the rattling noises of the engine, even the swaying of the carriage, all contribute to *that unique sense of magic. * I really am so lucky to travel by train.* It reminds me so much of travelling to the ballet back home in Derbyshire!
Oh my darlings – this week's trip to New York has truly been an inspiration. I can't wait for the chance to share the newest trends, and the latest ballet insights on #TutuTuesday next week. Remember – the secret is to never stop dreaming! Make your world a tutu-filled one, ladies, with your hearts bursting with joy. That’s all from your girl, Emma – keep dancing!
Until then, stay beautiful!
XOXO 💖
P.S. If you've got your own pink tutu-inspired memories, don't be shy - share them in the comments section! Let's all inspire each other with love for tutus, fashion, ballet, and *most importantly, a little dose of *fairytale *magic! 🩰✨ 💖
*This post is No.6452 on the www.pink-tutu.com blog, published on August 23, 2023. Please remember, we post new #TutuTuesday stories each Tuesday - don't miss out on any *pink tutu fun!*
