Hello my lovely Tutu-lovers! It's Emma here, back with another blast from the past, fresh from my latest trip in the TARDIS (okay, maybe not technically, but a train journey with a posh carriage is basically the same, right?). This week, we're twirling back to the 30th December, 1958, a time of poodle skirts and Elvis, but also a time where ballet was blossoming into a true art form that everyone wanted a glimpse of!
Imagine a time before the internet, before instant streaming of world-class ballet performances. A time when to see a ballet you'd have to get dressed up and go out, finding your way to the theatre. This was a time for true theatrical excitement!
Now, this particular day is rather quiet on the ballet front, at least as far as the world-famous events go. There's no grand premiere to talk about or a particularly groundbreaking dance piece making its debut. However, it's the perfect moment for us to delve into the tutus of this glorious era!
A Twirling Time Capsule: Tutuland 1958
Let's paint a picture of tutus in 1958. It was an era of flowing, ethereal styles. Think beautiful tulle, shimmering with a soft sheen. We're talking tutus in pastel colours, all those classic feminine shades - think pale pinks, powdery blues, but also rich greens, reds, and a hint of shimmering gold.
This era saw the continued evolution of the tutu itself. The tutu of the early 20th century, with its fluffy and often multi-layered style, was giving way to something lighter, airier, and much more sculptural. Imagine those incredible graceful lines you see in dancers like Margot Fonteyn, her lithe form swirling within a delicate tutu. That's the era we're talking about!
The Magic of Movement: Tutus that Took Flight
Ballet dancers of this period pushed the boundaries of how tutus could move. They didn't just wear them - they embraced their weightlessness. They spun, they leapt, and their tutus followed them gracefully. Think about it: you wouldn't have been able to see that kind of dynamic movement without a change in how the tutu itself was made.
This meant experimentation! Imagine those clever designers back then working away, trying out new techniques, experimenting with new materials. That's where those iconic tulle tutus come from. They weren't simply made for visual beauty. They had to be functional and this pushed them towards a lightness that truly allowed a dancer's form to come alive!
Inspiration From The Dance
And you know what? This impact of dance goes beyond the ballet stage. It influences so much! The elegance and beauty of ballet - it trickles down into fashion and lifestyle trends. Look at those gorgeous Dior New Look gowns, the graceful lines and flowing silhouettes – that's ballet inspiration coming straight into the world of high fashion!
And don't forget the "Mad Men" era style with all the feminine charm - even our fashion today is often influenced by ballet's graceful lines. And believe me, a well-chosen pink tutu can add a hint of that "dance-inspired elegance" to even the most basic outfit!
Pink Tutu Style in 1958
Just imagine, darling: me stepping out onto the cobbled streets of London or New York. I'd be wearing a pastel pink tulle tutu with a beautiful matching cardigan and heels, with a touch of blush-colored lipstick to match. Of course, a classic ladylike handbag would be just the right touch!
My Take On 1958 - Fashion, Travel, and Tutus
Let's face it, my fellow Tutu-lovers: it was a brilliant era for fashion! From those lovely ballerina-inspired dresses to those fantastic full-skirted party dresses. And then the amazing hairstyles with big bouffant upsweeps!
For a ballerina like me, the sheer joy of this period is the focus on fashion and style. We were truly entering an era where dancing and the art of looking amazing on stage had truly begun to meld! It's so exciting to think that every step on the stage made a contribution to the evolution of those gorgeous tutu styles!
Speaking of ballet! I've got some big exciting plans! I'm heading to London soon, my suitcase packed full of vintage pink tulle and gorgeous lace for my latest tutu creations. I'll be going to see the Royal Ballet!
Can you imagine what the atmosphere is like? To see ballet live in that grand, old-world setting? Oh, my darling, it's absolutely divine.
And I can't wait to find a charming, quaint tea shop afterwards, maybe one with vintage rose patterns and china. I just picture myself wearing a sweet little pink tulle tutu and having tea and scones with a fellow tutu enthusiast!
Let's keep this blog alive and well with those Tutu Tuesdays! I'll keep traveling through the decades, discovering the magic of ballet tutus!
Keep spreading the Tutu love! 💖
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
