Welcome back to my Pink-Tutu blog, darlings! This week's #TutuTuesday takes us right back to the heart of the 1950s, a truly magical era for ballet and fashion, if I do say so myself! 💅
Today's post marks the 6,553rd entry in my journey through ballet history. Yes, my lovelies, you heard that right - 6,553! That's almost as many tutus as I have in my personal collection (though it's definitely a close race)! 😜
I'm Emma, your very own time-travelling, pink-tutu-wearing ballet blogger straight from Derbyshire, England. Now, you all know how much I love to travel (by train, of course - so much more chic!) and one of my favourite things to do is dip my toes (or shall I say, pointe shoes) into the rich history of ballet. It's a fascinating journey through time, full of breathtaking performances, extraordinary designs, and, of course, an ever-evolving world of tutus!
And oh, speaking of tutus! Remember how we chatted about the iconic 'bell-shaped' tulle tutu gaining its true form in the early 1900s? Well, our journey continues this week with a peek into 1957 - a time when ballerinas were pushing the boundaries of dance and the tutu world was still brimming with creativity.
So, picture this: the year is 1957, the music of the day is jazz and rock 'n' roll, and on the dance stage, we find ballerinas in exquisite pointe shoes and…wait for it… The 'romantic tutu'! Imagine a full-length, multi-layered tulle masterpiece, often with cascading fabric for added drama, taking center stage. This dreamy design allowed for effortless movements, creating an air of ethereal elegance, perfectly in line with the classic romantic ballets that were being staged.
Think graceful figures in white, airy tulle with a touch of whimsical embroidery - just like the perfect pink dream come true! 💕
1957 was also a time when Margot Fonteyn (such a stunning name!) captivated audiences with her sublime performances. This beloved English ballerina graced stages around the globe, earning worldwide fame for her ethereal grace and precise movements, not to mention her unforgettable portrayal of Princess Aurora in 'Sleeping Beauty'! Talk about iconic, darling! And naturally, with a talent like Fonteyn, you'd find her captivating audiences in her beautiful, romantic tutus - the absolute epitome of elegance.
But, you see, this time wasn't all about long romantic tutus. This was also the year that Rudolf Nureyev joined the Royal Ballet, revolutionizing ballet forever. He brought a new wave of vigour and strength to the dance world. You can almost see the new era coming, a shift towards contemporary styles, in this incredible talent!
And guess what? The changing styles are going to have a HUGE influence on the ballet world. Not only did ballet start moving towards a wider range of themes and stories but, just like all our lovely wardrobes do, the way ballerinas dressed evolved with them!
In 1957, a new approach was also taking its first steps – a move away from the strict conventions of the classical tutu and the start of the exciting era we see today in the ballet world! It's a bold, beautiful world of endless possibilities for the tutu! And of course, I, Emma, am right here to share the journey with you.
So, as we take a peek into 1957, keep those stylish dreams blooming! You know my favourite advice, darling: always wear pink, always wear a tutu, and never stop dancing to the music of life! 💕
Until next Tuesday, my dearest ballet lovers!
Your ever-so-pink, tutu-loving Emma x
P.S. If you're looking for some fashion inspiration for the upcoming weekend, I found a little secret vintage boutique in Paris (no, I won’t tell you exactly where…it's my little secret!), which houses a collection of the most divine 1950s-era tulle and lace! Perfect for replicating your own ballet-inspired look. 😉
P.P.S What a great way to round off this week's #TutuTuesday! I’m just off to watch Swan Lake at the Royal Opera House - how fabulous! If you see me there, be sure to say hello, my dear. We can then head for the most elegant champagne cocktail…just what the evening calls for, right?!
