Hello, lovelies! It’s Emma, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, back with another #TutuTuesday instalment from the annals of Ballet Tutu History!
This week, we're taking a trip to February 26th, 1957. Imagine me, spinning in my glorious pink tutu as we board the Orient Express, heading towards the Parisian glamour that's the very heart of ballet fashion!
Oh, Paris, you are my true love! Every corner whispers secrets of elegance, every boutique bursts with the most delectable frocks and furs, and even the aroma of freshly baked croissants feels positively chic. Just stepping off the train, I can already tell that this trip promises to be fabulous!
But first, before I can dive headfirst into the world of Parisien fashion, let's chat about tutus, shall we?
In the heart of 1957, the world of ballet is alive with the enchanting movement of tutus! While those famous, bell-shaped, multiple layered "Romantic" tutus from the Romantic Era were still popular for ballets like Giselle, we see the beginnings of the more practical, classical, "peg-leg" tutus emerging around this time.
This new kind of tutu is known for its structured construction, less **voluminous, consisting of one or two layers. They provide a graceful flow, making a ballerina's every pirouette seem absolutely magical while keeping their movement elegant, yet nimble. This evolution in tutu style, you see, mirrors the changing approach to ballet itself. There's still an undeniable air of ethereal beauty, but the dance is also focused on incredible athleticism, and the tutu has to keep up!
On this date in history, let's consider a moment at The Paris Opera, where ballet fever runs rampant! Imagine rows and rows of Parisian ladies adorned in their most chic gowns, gazing intently at the ballerinas on stage, their exquisite moves a symphony of elegance and grace. Think flowing, silky skirts and shimmering embellishments that were oh-so-popular back then! Such beauty! The ladies at the Opera in 1957 know that ballet and fashion are inseparable, and they embody it in their outfits. They even accessorize with adorable hats!
Now, to the heart of Paris fashion!
After taking a turn around the legendary Galleries Lafayette, the chicest store in the entire world, my head spins with a flurry of lace, ribbons, and luxurious silks. I can’t resist buying a couple of fabulous Parisian scarves with floral patterns and chic velvet ribbons, to tie around my tutu, natch! The scarves will be perfect for an elegant look as I hit the ballet studio, feeling as glamorous as the very actresses I admire!
Did you know that even a walk around Paris on a Tuesday can be a thrilling adventure! A delicious lunch at Café de Flore was such a delight! Think delectable macarons and rich pastries, all enjoyed with the chicest clientele!
Of course, a trip to the most fabulous city on Earth isn't complete without a trip to a show, right? Tonight, we'll be seeing Giselle at the Paris Opera Ballet. Did you know this is where a star is born in 1957! It's the legendary Margot Fonteyn! This breathtaking ballet will make you gasp with delight as a young, rising star, the dazzling Margot Fonteyn, pirouettes across the stage. This was truly one for the history books, dear reader! And if you ask me, the epitome of beauty in motion!
On this trip, the streets of Paris whisper fashion trends from the past with its signature Parisian charm! And speaking of trends, here is the one piece that makes all the fashion in 1957 feel magical… The Dior “New Look!” * Think a world of flowing fabrics, soft, rounded curves, and, of course, the infamous "cinched waist." It is a breath of fresh air, making women look their absolute best! You just *cannot go wrong with this stylish silhouette! I have even dreamt of recreating the elegant lines of a New Look tutu! Oh, the sheer joy of designing new ballet-inspired creations!
Before my travels take me to another exciting time in the world of tutu history, let's do a little flashback. This week we celebrate fashion and dance. Did you know, fashion was very inspired by the world of ballet throughout the last century. It's true! I will tell you more next week about how Christian Dior drew inspiration from the "ballerina look" and how it shaped the 1950s silhouette! Just remember that every little girl, and grown-up too, should always feel empowered to express their own sense of style, in whatever form! A little touch of pink here, a little tutu there, and you can have the perfect "ballet fashion" look - effortless chic.
Now, back to my fabulous French adventure! My heart races just thinking about the delightful stories I am about to experience. You can always trust me, dear readers, to return to you with all the latest fashion insights!
And, of course, a touch of magic...
Until next week, when we go even further into history, stay true to yourselves, dance with all your hearts, and don’t be afraid to be a little bit pink, because that is simply... divine.
Your faithful tutu-tastic friend, Emma
