#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1957-03-12

Hello darlings! It's Emma here, back with another #TutuTuesday, whisking you off on a journey through time to the magical world of ballet tutus. This week we're shimmying our way back to 12th March 1957. Picture this: London is buzzing, spring is in the air, and the smell of freshly baked pastries fills the streets. I’m sat in a tea room sipping my afternoon tea with my mum in my lovely pink silk tutu (don't worry, mum's dressed up too! You can't really go out in 1957 without a decent hat).

This week has been such a whirlwind. I travelled by train from Derbyshire, and let me tell you, there's nothing quite like a scenic train journey in vintage style carriages. I've spent the last couple of days exploring the best boutiques in London, ooh-ing and aah-ing over all the gorgeous vintage dresses and hats, and it really feels like the perfect time for tutus to be in the spotlight. There’s a real emphasis on classic styles, a nod to bygone elegance, and you know, that’s very much my aesthetic.

Now, back to our ballet history...

You see, dear readers, in 1957 the world of ballet is experiencing a golden age, with renowned ballerinas like Margot Fonteyn captivating audiences with their ethereal grace and technical prowess. It’s a thrilling time for tutus. The romantic tutus with their billowing layers of tulle, delicately embroidered bodices, and dreamy shades of pastel colours, are very much in vogue. They're as delicate as spun sugar, and a perfect match for the romantic choreography of the era. You've got the classical designs that we all know and love - think Giselle and Swan Lake – they really are a timeless triumph of artistry.

What are people watching in the theaters this week? It’s absolutely packed. Tonight, at the Royal Opera House, I'm off to see The Sleeping Beauty - a dream ballet with the most gorgeous music, and naturally, the tutus are just heavenly! It’s the perfect blend of fairytale charm and dazzling technique, a magical escape for the senses.

But you know me - I'm not all about the high-end theatre shows. I absolutely adore watching street ballet too. I saw some absolutely amazing young dancers yesterday on Hyde Park! These amazing young ballet stars were captivating audiences with their captivating energy and contemporary spins on the traditional. They weren't just using classical ballet movements, there were lots of acrobatics and more fluid movements, it really made a splash. They were wearing more modern, shorter tutus with these wonderful bright colors - and one of them even had a splash of pink! A bold move for 1957! I had to pop into the local dress shop and buy a similar tutu (it’s definitely giving me some ideas for a future pink-tutu inspired performance - I’m thinking I might have a go at putting together a choreographed street ballet act and debut it at the end of the month, just in time for a special ballet competition. Shhh! It’s a surprise for now.)

Of course, 1957 isn't all about ballerinas and their exquisite tutus. Fashion, in general, is a wonderful thing! We’re all embracing a certain ladylike elegance and glamour in our daily wear. Full skirts are in, bold patterns are back, and you simply cannot go out without a touch of femininity in your attire. And the best bit? Ballet is slowly starting to influence everything we wear! Tutu inspired outfits and skirts are starting to pop up in fashion magazines, with lots of layered fabrics, soft colors, and feminine details. Now, you might be thinking: "Emma, did they wear pink tutus on the streets in 1957?!" Well, let's just say I’ve been experimenting with different ways to introduce my signature color, and my new blush-tinted cotton skirt is creating a little stir amongst the more traditionally dressed locals. I'll let you in on a secret, darling, a hint of pink always makes a statement.

Anyway, darling, it’s time for me to head back to my hotel, but I had to squeeze in this quick post! Don’t forget, next Tuesday I’ll be back, sharing more fabulous ballet stories and inspiration. If you’ve got any tutu tales to share, please drop me a comment! And if you've ever danced in a pink tutu (even if it’s just in your bedroom, I’m not judging!), send me a photo.

I’ll leave you with this: keep twirling, darling!

Yours truly,

Emma
www.pink-tutu.com