Hello my darling dears! It's your favourite tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back for another Tutu Tuesday! Today, we're travelling to September 25th, 1956, a date packed with exciting happenings in the ballet world! And wouldn't you know it, it's absolutely perfect for a vintage tutu inspiration day.
Just imagine: it's 1956, the fifties are in full swing, the air is buzzing with the new sounds of rock 'n' roll, and we're all dressed to the nines, or should I say, to the tutu-s! Because yes, ladies and gents, 1956 was a big year for tutus.
You see, ballet had always been seen as an elegant art form, enjoyed by the upper class in beautiful theatres across Europe, America and, of course, here in London! However, after the second World War, the tides were changing, and dance was becoming a true passion for many. We saw more and more talented dancers from all walks of life taking the stage. And, with this influx of talent, ballet became more accessible and exciting! The perfect time for a tutu revolution!
The styles were exciting, too! 1956 was all about flow and femininity - lots of layers and flouncy frills on layered tutus which added to the excitement and dynamism of the choreography. You might be picturing a big, layered tulle masterpiece, like the ones those amazing dancers wear in "Swan Lake" or "Giselle". That's the spirit we're going for!
This style is all about grace and movement, my darlings. I actually stumbled across a truly fascinating ballet exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, which I couldn't wait to tell you all about. They had beautiful examples of early layered tutus from this era. A few of the styles included the layered classic tutu, a multi-tiered tulle skirt, and the gorgeous, delicate, tutu en pointe. Imagine the magic! It really captures the essence of ballet!
It's a beautiful era. We're talking bold, playful colours - and oh, what colours they were! Imagine bright yellows, sky-blue, crisp white, even beautiful pastels and bold shades of pink! They were absolutely captivating. It truly made every performance, from the ballet street dancers to the grand theatre performances, truly electric! They just felt extra special because of these bold styles.
And the designs! They weren't shy about adding details. Some designers even experimented with embellishments like sequins and embroidery! A true testament to the fact that even in 1956, dancers were demanding the very best! You can truly see this in the way these designs complimented the body in movement, it was an amazing display of creative and athletic talent, all wrapped up in breathtaking tutu beauty!
Let's talk about where to spot these incredible tutu trends! In 1956, a number of truly amazing dance companies were rising to the occasion, offering ballet experiences that left people breathless. There's a whole world of dance to explore here - just take your pick, darlings!
I personally saw The Royal Ballet, a company still thriving today. The London ballet world just was buzzing! I saw dancers like Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev performing. Oh my, my, my, **how those stars would shine! The grace, the athleticism, the pure brilliance!
My favourite bit? These performances didn't always take place in grand old theaters. Imagine, in 1956, I was on a lovely train trip, passing the rolling green fields of Derbyshire, on my way to see an outdoor ballet show by the beach! Magical! You can definitely feel the excitement and thrill of seeing a tutu twirl against the backdrop of a glorious sunset! And, with a tutu to match the colour of the sky, just wow!
You've got to imagine all these amazing stories and moments, living through the eyes of a 1956 dancer. Think of the thrill of wearing that magnificent, billowing tutu as they danced under the spotlight! All you have to do is look back at those gorgeous old photos - it's truly enchanting.
Today, I am still very much inspired by 1956, with it's vibrant colours, elegant lines and, most of all, its unbridled joy for movement! *What better way to capture that feeling than by spinning and twirling in a tutu, my darlings? *
*As I always say, "Tutus for Everyone!", and, I'm sure this September 25th will go down in the books for all the right reasons. *
You're the best bunch! So many thanks for reading, don't forget to wear your fabulous tutus, keep on dancing, and join me next week, for a brand-new, Tutu Tuesday!
