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#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1958-04-08

Tutu Tuesday: A Step Back in Time to April 1958 (Blog Post #6589)

Hello my dearest tutu-loving friends! It's your favourite pink-clad time travelling ballerina, Emma, here with another delve into the glorious history of the tutu! This week, I'm twirling my way back to the 8th of April 1958, a time when tutus were just starting to become the iconic symbol of grace and elegance that we know and love today!

My oh my, how the world has changed since then. The 1950s - that decade of bobby socks, poodle skirts and all things pink! Now, as someone who adores pink and tutus, I must say I wouldn't mind having a little jaunt back there. It truly seems to have been an era of sweet pastel shades and beautiful frills, and of course, nothing says ‘frills’ like a stunning ballet tutu!

Oh, the delights I found when I stepped off the train and into 1958! I swear, the air itself seemed lighter, with the vibrant colours and cheerful patterns. My vintage-inspired pink tulle tutu caused quite the stir, let me tell you! All those perfectly coiffed ladies (the hats, my dears, the hats!) seemed to gasp at the sheer pink loveliness. Honestly, I could have sworn I heard one lady say "Well, I've never seen such a fancy tutu in my life!".

Of course, in those days, tutus weren't necessarily considered as commonplace as they are now. Ballet itself was often viewed as something for the upper class. Just imagine - a whole generation where tutus were something special, reserved for those select few who could afford tickets to the grand opera houses! I wonder what would be said if we travelled forward to, say, 2023 and told them that today everyone - children, grandmas, and even fluffy kittens - can own a tutu! (Actually, the kittens probably can't wear a tutu but you get the picture.)

Ballet Bliss: On the Stage and On the Streets

Right then, back to my adventures. This 1958 trip has been full of theatrical surprises! As I ventured into the city centre, a delightful music hall show was starting to wrap up its final act. The performers, all dressed in colourful costumes, danced and sang with such vigour. And would you believe it, they actually had a tutu or two on stage! Though quite a different style from the delicate romantic ones we are so accustomed to these days, these tutus added a sense of flair and excitement.

And then, oh my goodness! On a particularly quaint little street, tucked away between bakeries and flower shops, a tiny little shop caught my eye - a tutu boutique! Can you imagine? An entire store dedicated to those magical wisps of tulle and their many incarnations! Imagine having a whole shop devoted to tutus! The sheer range of colours and designs was incredible - everything from the classic white romantic to more flamboyant shades of purple and teal!

Speaking of flamboyant, 1958 was a year full of stunning dance spectacles, from the graceful moves of "La Bayadère" (a Russian ballet, don't you know), with its opulent, layered, and grand tutus, to the daring interpretations of "Giselle" with its more fluid, simple, and dramatic design. My trip was perfect for seeing these magnificent ballets in their finest form. And oh my, don’t even get me started on the amazing costume shops and boutiques of this period! The quality of fabrics, the intricate details… it really is an era for the true ballet lover to appreciate.

From Classic to Chic: A Glimpse into the Past

Of course, as we all know, a classic tutu from this era wasn't just something to wear to the ballet. You might think a lady wearing a big, billowing pink tutu walking down the street might be seen as a bit eccentric today. But back in 1958, it was actually pretty common! Fashion was changing rapidly, and it seemed like everyone was embracing the "twirling-tutu-look". Whether it was a tea party, a first date, or a trip to the local cafe, the tutu was adding that extra bit of feminine charm. It truly was the decade of the ‘feminine form’!

There's a reason, I think, that tutus were becoming so popular. They embodied that spirit of fun, frivolity and glamour that 1958 seemed to radiate. They were a visual symbol of liberation and joie de vivre - the perfect blend of gentle, feminine sweetness and the playful abandon of carefree dance. I truly do wish I could capture just a fraction of that energy for all of us!

Why the Pink Tutu is My All-Time Favourite

Now, of course, my personal preference will always be for the glorious pink tutu! But really, is there a more adorable colour for a twirly, frilly, and beautiful tutu? Honestly, nothing compares to the soft, sweet glow of pink tulle dancing in the light.

Maybe that's why tutus remain so captivating, don't you think? A reminder of childhood, of magical stories, and of dreams taking flight. We should all take a leaf from those wonderful, fashion-forward 1950s women, I say. If you see a tutu, wear it with confidence. Be unafraid to twirl, and embrace the magic that lies within the flutter of a tutu skirt!

Join me next week for another captivating step back in time with my Ballet Tutu History series, my lovelies! Remember, be sure to keep those twirls going! Don’t forget to follow me on our social channels at #PinkTutu, and I will see you again, my dearest, next Tuesday!

All my love,

Emma xx

#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1958-04-08