Hello my darling tutu lovers! 🩰💖 Welcome back to another #TutuTuesday installment of my Ballet Tutu History blog. Today is a special day as we time travel back to August 7th, 1956 - buckle up, loves! This week's adventure takes us right to the heart of New York City, the bustling hub of dance and fashion in the '50s! Imagine the scent of fresh popcorn, the click-clack of heels on pavement, and the dazzling lights of Broadway - it's simply magical.
I just adore the history of ballet - and there’s so much to uncover and share with all of you! From the elegant swirls of the Romantic era to the vibrant athleticism of the 20th century, it’s all a testament to the artistry and dedication of dancers through the ages. And we’re never short on tulle inspiration, especially here in the vibrant heart of the American ballet scene.
Now, for our historical tour, you wouldn’t catch me on the subway in a sparkly pink tutu. Oh no, we need to think practical - and chic! Just like a real time-travelling ballerina, I’m donning my darling tailored pastel pink linen dress and a sweet floral print hat for a little old-world charm - we must be inconspicuous! Luckily, linen suits were all the rage in the 50’s. I picked this one up for a steal in my last time travel adventure - thank you London! Think elegance and simplicity with just the hint of that 50's fashion.
Oh, did I mention that I’m so excited for tonight? I just have to go see a performance at The New York City Ballet! The program for this very day - oh, the excitement! It's the return of George Balanchine's "Agon", and everyone is talking about the groundbreaking choreography. The world of ballet was changed forever by this performance in the early 1950s. Can you imagine the revolutionary tutus and costumes? The dancers were so strong, powerful, and full of life.
It's not only about ballet on this magical Tuesday. On August 7th 1956, there were fashion parades, tea dances, and everyone was sporting the New Look! It was so glamorous. Dior and Balenciaga are the names everyone is talking about, the designs and colours were bold, bright, and a little bit risky - oh, it was fabulous! It wasn’t too hard for me to adapt to the 1950’s look. Imagine me swishing into a tea dance in my pastel linen dress and enjoying a lovely cuppa. Just think - I was wearing what the ladies in New York were all wearing back in the day! This time travelling life is all about adaptation.
This era was all about a feminine silhouette and strong geometric shapes. The emphasis on the tutu’s length became an important element for dancers, emphasizing their powerful jumps, long leaps, and delicate footwork.
You might ask what was the must have fabric for 1956 dancers? Why it was nylon! Think sleek, airy, and incredibly durable! It made such an impact on dancers. It became all the rage after WWII, revolutionising the world of tutus, for the simple fact it was practical!
In 1956, we are on the verge of a ballet boom. Think TV! This magical invention was becoming mainstream in America, so the exposure and opportunity for dancers to showcase their talent on the little screen was exploding! In fact, ballet classes are gaining popularity amongst women across the country! I can feel a ‘boom’ in pink tutu sales and I can just see the rise in pinkness and sweetness on American shores.
It’s easy for me to understand why. Every woman deserves to twirl and feel beautiful. Every woman needs the femininity and joy of a pink tutu in their life! You'll love to see the changes the ‘50’s had for ballet and its rise to popularity!
What a day we've had, loves! Just imagine being surrounded by the elegance, style, and passion for dance. It’s amazing to be a time-travelling ballerina - it’s the most wonderful job in the world!
Now, I'm off to shop! This lovely city is famous for its department stores. Just the mention of Saks Fifth Avenue gets me excited! It's on to Fifth Avenue where the best dresses in the world are waiting. This trip is full of delights. Oh, the dresses! The handbags! I just have to buy something - even a small memento for my shop back home, Pink-tutu.com, will do. It will be just a little taste of 50s elegance to add to the store’s vintage ballet collection.
I’ve just received an amazing consignment of ballerina dresses and accessories from the 1950s. All things tulle and lovely for a beautiful, new look for my shop. It’s certainly inspiring.
It’s my dream to have my shop Pink-tutu.com become a true haven for tutu-loving ballerinas. This magical journey just keeps inspiring me, and hopefully, it's inspiring all of you too!
You have to look at those pink tutus - all those vibrant, light, lovely shades of pink - they’re an ode to beauty and grace!
To continue the excitement, my little tutu enthusiasts, remember you can stay in touch, follow along, and get your fix of tutu-ific goodness through my other social media channels:
Pink-tutu.com | Twitter | Instagram
#TutuTuesday | #BalletLove | #TimeTravelingBallerina
And remember, there’s no time like the present to feel your most magical self and get twirling. I can't wait to time travel back with you next week!
