Hello, darling dears, and welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your weekly dose of all things tulle and twirls!
It's #TutuTuesday, which means it's time to take a trip down memory lane. Today, I've been flitting through time again (it's amazing what you can do when you wear the right shoes!) And guess what? I found myself twirling in the heart of Paris, a true haven for ballet lovers. It's the year 1957 - a glorious time for dance. And you just know I'm wearing my favourite hot pink tutu - after all, the only thing better than a pink tutu is a pink tutu with a touch of Parisian flair.
Now, back to history, darlings! 1957. This was the year Margot Fonteyn took to the stage in The Sleeping Beauty. Just imagine, this breathtaking ballerina in a white tulle tutu that would have looked absolutely magical beneath the theatre lights! My heart skips a beat just thinking about it. The choreography, the drama, the sheer beauty of the entire performance - it must have been utterly unforgettable.
But let's talk about the tutus themselves, shall we?
As we move through this magical year, the evolution of ballet tutus becomes quite apparent. Back in 1957, tutus were already beginning to become a bit more elaborate than those worn in the past. Imagine - frills, lace, and tons of layers of tulle, giving that beautiful bell shape - perfect for those dramatic flourishes we all adore. They really embraced the romanticism of ballet. I think, even today, the elegance of those old-school tutus is unmatched.
You know what's so fascinating about the way tutus have changed throughout history? Itās like looking at a reflection of societal shifts! When times were a bit more understated, tutus were too. And then, when we moved into the 20th century, with the advent of big dreams and grand ideas, tutus did too - becoming grander and more theatrical! Now, tutues, well, they embody the creativity of fashion, the art of dance and a reflection of our world's grand dreams.
Now, while in 1957 we were seeing incredible advances in tutu designs, it wasn't all frills and flounces.
I just love how fashion influences ballet. And this era was no different. Imagine, the 1950s - the age of the A-line dress, bold colours, and chic fabrics - this stylish wave made its way onto the dance floor, making a statement in tutus. Designers and costumiers started playing with the colours and fabrics. The colour pink, of course, was very much in vogue (we can thank Audrey Hepburn and her Sabrina movie for that). So it makes me think... were dancers in this era rocking pink tutus too? I bet they were! Imagine the stunning visual - like an explosion of rosy bliss on the stage.
Speaking of bold moves in ballet, the very same year weāre discussing (September 1957) marked a pivotal event: the Bolshoi Ballet performed at the Royal Opera House in London. Can you imagine, dear friends, that incredible event? It was a groundbreaking moment! Two major ballet companies, exchanging stages, exchanging artistry. This event, it symbolized an incredible bridge, bridging not just geographical boundaries but artistic ones, allowing cultures and techniques to blend, inspiring innovation and creating exciting new perspectives on ballet.
You know, I get completely swept up in history and this incredible past world!
Back in this 1957 time, imagine walking into the iconic Royal Opera House in London, its velvet-covered seats, the chandeliers casting a sparkling magic. Imagine hearing the quiet murmurs of the crowd before the lights dim. Now, imagine watching Margot Fonteyn, this captivating legend, take to the stage. You would just be transported to a world where every gesture, every twirl was grace personified.
Imagine me standing in that majestic space - a sea of swirling tulle and dazzling sequins - I bet I would've looked like a sparkling little star!
Of course, I couldnāt have resisted taking a tour of all the amazing fashion shops in Paris! My inner fashionista would have gone wild! Back in 1957, designers were creating these stunning ensembles, everything from fabulous evening gowns to luxurious couture. My head wouldāve spun with so many pretty fabrics. The allure of haute couture... it really was its heyday. You just had to embrace the dramatic look, and the amazing fabrics, Iām sure the Parisian women wore with so much elegance. But Iām sure, at some point I found myself a magnificent silk shawl to go with my new pink tutu - you know you need to be dressed for the occasion!
But it wasnāt all just glamour, you know. While it's fun to admire these iconic figures like Margot Fonteyn, remember that every ballerina starts as a student. Back in 1957, you can imagine, dance classes were all about learning those strict but elegant moves, and then pouring heart and soul into every rehearsal.
Itās a constant cycle - from the hard work of rehearsal to the beauty and glory of the performance. Thatās what makes it all so captivating. All of that effort - it comes to fruition on the stage and captivates the world. Itās the very reason we celebrate #TutuTuesday - to remember this magical world!
This week I've also discovered that one of my favourite dancers of today - Natalia Osipova ā made her stage debut way back in this year (1957), just a little girl dancing her way towards her destiny as a brilliant ballerina.
And let's be honest, darlings, the only reason I've landed in the heart of 1957 is because I took the most magnificent train journey - a train filled with ballet dancers travelling to performances across the world. A bit like the ballet equivalent of āMurder on the Orient Expressā, except Iām not looking for a murderer ā Iām on the hunt for the most gorgeous pink tutu. And when you find the perfect pink tutu - itās really something special! Youāve simply got to find that pink magic!
Right, I am already making my way back to the 21st century, but trust me, I'll keep sharing all the enchanting stories and insights into the world of #TutuTuesday. Until next week, darlings. Remember - lifeās too short not to twirl!
Always with a skip and a twirl,
Emma
*P.S. *Did I tell you I found an adorable little cafe, in Paris ā the coffee was simply delicious and I bought the most lovely new, pink bow to add to my collection!
