Hello darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, and today we’re taking a trip back in time to the year 1915, right in the middle of the Great War, but fear not, because nothing could dampen the spirit of Christmas! 🎄
You see, my darlings, Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year for ballet. It's the magic of twinkling lights, snow-covered landscapes, and the incredible feeling of the whole world joining in the festive spirit – something that feels particularly relevant right now, wouldn’t you agree? ✨
Now, the 1910s was an absolute treasure trove for fashion and ballet – an explosion of colours, textures, and fabulous silhouettes. It was a period when dances became less stiff and more flowing (thank goodness!), embracing freedom of movement and the celebration of the female form. The “danceomania” of the Edwardian era was at its peak, with ballet shoes popping up in all the right places!
As a Christmas present to yourselves (and maybe a little to me for sharing!), I've decided to share some of the captivating Christmas ballets that were sweeping the world in 1915. This time travel will include a little bit of backstage drama, a touch of fashion, and maybe even a peek at what Christmas presents ballet dancers were asking for – oh, to be a ballerina back then!
The Dance World: Lights, Camera, Tutus! 🩰
One of the most captivating events in 1915, particularly for London’s elite, was Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes’ triumphant return. This troupe of fabulous dancers (oh, the drama!) stormed onto the scene with a flurry of feathers, sequins, and groundbreaking choreography that pushed the boundaries of the classical tradition. In this year, they debuted "Parade," by Erik Satie and Jean Cocteau. This one was a real showstopper! With its unconventional style – think marching bands, Pierrot the clown, and even some street-inspired choreography (darling, you’ll never believe what they did with bicycles!) - this ballet became an absolute sensation, making it the must-see performance of the season!
Now, you simply have to imagine: the Ballets Russes dancing at the Alhambra Theatre on a Christmas Eve – sparkling costumes, swirling dancers, and a room filled with high-society ladies dressed in their most glamorous attire, swirling with the season's festive colours. Can you see it? I can! ✨
Fashion, darling, fashion! 👗
In 1915, the world of ballet fashion was embracing the glamorous silhouettes of the day – long, flowing gowns, adorned with ribbons, bows, and luxurious embroidery. And wouldn't you know, pink was having a moment, darlings! It was everywhere, from the delicate tulle and chiffon of ballerinas' skirts to the silk evening gowns that graced the theatres' opulent boxes.
Oh, my sweet dreams! I could picture myself swirling across a ballroom in a pale pink gown with a matching feather boa, my hair adorned with sparkling jewels. Talk about Christmas glamour!
And just to make the fashion even more exquisite, think of the jewellery that complemented these amazing outfits! Diamonds, sapphires, and pearls gleamed beneath the Christmas lights, reflecting a time when fashion and ballet were more intertwined than ever. Think of delicate pearl earrings and stunning diamond necklaces with large, glittering gemstones! Simply divine! 💖
Let's Talk About Christmas Traditions! 🎄
In 1915, Christmas was a special time, especially after a difficult year like this one, with the world entrenched in the terrible war. But just like the snowflakes, the festive spirit spread everywhere – from Christmas cards sent to soldiers at the front to decorated trees lighting up windows and homes around the country.
As we step into the festive period of 1915, you might ask: what would a Christmas ballet dancer wear as a special present? Imagine this, darlings, a beautiful* pink tutu made from layers of silk, tulle, and sequins – every girl's dream come true, right? Of course, a ballerina might have asked for an exquisite pair of ballet slippers crafted with luxurious leather, embellished with tiny pearls. Oh, to be a ballet dancer!
Now, let’s turn our attention back to us, darling – let's talk about bringing that Christmas sparkle into your life.
Why not channel a 1915 ballerina’s grace with a soft pink tulle skirt, or perhaps a satin dress, just as captivating as those worn in 1915? You can add a touch of vintage glamour with a faux fur wrap or an elegant hat for a true Christmas touch! 💖
Oh, my dear friends, that's just a little glimpse into the glittering world of ballet during the festive season in 1915! It’s a time that perfectly combines elegance, artistry, and joy. So, remember, there is magic everywhere, and as you slip into that pink tutu (or a similar glamorous garment) and get ready for the festive season, embrace the Christmas magic just as those ballerinas did!
Happy dancing and a Merry Christmas from your resident pink-tutu wearing, time-travelling ballerina. Keep that twinkle in your eyes! ✨
Emma x
