Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where tutus reign supreme! It's #TutuTuesday again and this week I've taken a little trip in my trusty time machine to glorious, glamorous 1959. Now, darling, you know I'm a bit of a history buff when it comes to all things tutu. So let's go on a journey to discover the swirling skirts, the dazzling diamonds and the legendary dancers that shaped the ballet tutu as we know it today!
This post is number 6645 on my www.pink-tutu.com website and is dedicated to all you tutu lovers out there!
Now, this week’s tutu voyage lands us firmly in the heart of New York City. Yes, my dears, we’re at the Metropolitan Opera House to catch the premiere of a little show called Agon. This masterpiece was created by a young, exciting choreographer named George Balanchine, and it just oozes 50s chic with its playful movement, innovative staging and, of course, utterly magnificent tutus.
Imagine the scene! It's a chilly evening in May and the city is buzzing. Everyone’s out in their best attire – sharp suits for the gents and elegant cocktail dresses for the ladies – but let me tell you, I couldn't take my eyes off the breathtaking costumes that graced the stage. The ballerinas were wearing these delightful, shorter-than-usual tutus – you know, the ones that were almost like skirts instead of the grand, full tutus you might see in traditional ballet. These little numbers were perfectly cut to accentuate the ballerina’s lines and every single movement. I mean, who doesn’t love a bit of leg in a tutu? wink wink
They were all in various colours and textures - I can still picture those beautiful lilac silks swaying in the stage lights! The movement was fast and almost modern compared to the classic ballet of the time, and the shorter skirts just flew as they twirled! I must say, dear readers, the whole thing just oozed a certain je ne sais quoi, don’t you think? I've been living my best tutu life in Derbyshire, England, but my heart skipped a beat seeing how ballet was transforming, even in 1959.
Speaking of modern trends, this time in our tutu time travel brings us a new way to think about this wonderful garment. Forget the rigid expectations of the classical past – this 1959 vibe is all about a relaxed, graceful style. Think shorter, softer tutus that move with the ballerina. Gone are the days of stiff fabrics that restrict movement and restrict that perfect, swirly ballerina pose. This was the start of the ballet tutu’s transition towards a more modern, playful design.
And speaking of trends, it’s fascinating to see how ballet fashion continues to echo wider style. If you’ve watched a few classic films from the 50s you’ll know how much the whole 'New Look' by Christian Dior became a fashion phenomenon, influencing everything from dress length to shape. It's almost like the fashion designers and the ballerinas were all part of the same stylish club!
I’m not going to lie, the train ride to New York was an absolute dream! There’s nothing quite like the luxury of a train journey – especially with my fluffy pink tutu bag nestled beside me. A cup of tea and a good book (on ballet, naturally!), and the time flies by! But speaking of time flying by, I’m afraid I’ve reached my time-traveling limit! Until next Tuesday, remember to twirl with grace and kindness and never be afraid to show the world your own unique style. I'm always here for you, darling, and if you see a pink tutu fluttering in the wind, it might just be me!
Until then, stay fashionable and keep twirling! 💖
Emma x
