Welcome back, lovelies! It's your favourite pink-clad time-travelling ballerina, Emma, here with another dose of #TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History. Today we're heading back to 1957, the year the Beatles were forming, the Queen was on the throne, and poodle skirts were the height of fashion.
(This is blog post number 6560 on pink-tutu.com, so don't forget to share and follow my fabulous page!)
Oh, how I love stepping into a new era. This time, we're boarding the Orient Express - wouldn't you know it, the plush scarlet interior and velvet seats are positively calling out for a twirl! My travelling tutu today is a pale pink confection with a glorious satin bodice, which perfectly complements the scarlet and gold of the carriage.
Speaking of colour, 1957 was a veritable explosion of pastel shades - soft blues, vibrant yellows, and of course, my favourite: PINK! (You didn't think I'd forget the colour of love, did you?). Fashion magazines were overflowing with images of elegant ladies in poodle skirts and cinched-in waists, their skirts fluttering around their ankles as they danced to the latest tunes. And you know what, these girls knew how to rock a twirl!
Now, let's talk about our darling tutus. In 1957, tutus were evolving. The classic romantic tutu was still the epitome of ballerina elegance. This delicate, wispy creation was born out of the late Romantic period and remains iconic today.
But a new style, the "tutu of the future", was starting to emerge! This was the revolutionary "tutu-on-a-line". These creations were still flowing and beautiful, but they embraced new techniques and fabrics, often made with a structured, flowing line, embracing a modern look while staying true to the essence of ballet. This bold move reflected a shift in ballet itself. Choreographers were exploring new styles and expressing more dynamism.
Speaking of bold moves, we must not forget our very own ballerinas! Margot Fonteyn, was captivating audiences worldwide with her captivating grace and artistry, while Svetlana Beriosova, the "wild swan", was taking the stage by storm with her fiery technique and incredible power. Both these ladies, in their own individual ways, defined the beauty of the tutu and became style icons.
What is happening in the world on September 17th, 1957?
It's the same date Humphrey Bogart, a star of classic movies like Casablanca, died at 57. A loss for cinema, and a time for remembrance!
This day also marks a significant event for the world of fashion - the opening of London's world famous Liberty store, renowned for its iconic, arts and crafts design aesthetic.
We might not be heading to Liberty today, but we certainly are on a stylish adventure. Just imagine the vibrant fabrics and designs I could incorporate into my own tutu collection! It's exciting just thinking about it!
And for this Tuesday's inspiration, dear reader, I urge you: Embrace a touch of 1950's elegance. Dress in your most beautiful floral dress, and feel free to add a dash of pink! (After all, even in 1957, everyone needed a dose of pink!) Perhaps even tie a pretty ribbon around your hair, à la poodle skirt girl. I dare you to try a little 1957 flair in your everyday life!
Speaking of inspiration, I've been mesmerised by The Nutcracker lately! A classic holiday show, and so beautiful! The magical tale and the incredible dancing have completely captivated me. I simply have to get my hands on a sparkly tutu to recreate my very own interpretation of The Sugar Plum Fairy! (Oh, the possibilities!)
Of course, I will be seeing this show again soon. Perhaps in Vienna, perhaps in St. Petersburg - my ballet travels know no bounds! I may even take a train, which is always an enchanting experience, filled with interesting characters and delicious possibilities!
Well, that's all for today, darlings. Remember, no matter the time, it's never too late to express yourself with the power of a tutu. So, be brave, let your inner ballerina shine, and be sure to check back next #TutuTuesday. I've got something dazzling lined up for you, guaranteed to make you twirl with delight. Until then, stay fab and keep dancing!
Yours,
Emma.
xxx
