Hello my dearest tutu-lovers!
It’s Emma here, ready to whisk you away on another fabulous trip through time! This month, we’re venturing back to the 1940s, to the 7th of July, to be precise. I just love this era for its playful elegance and sheer romance, and guess what? I’m wearing a beautiful pink, sequined, tutu with a tulle overlay for this one. Let me tell you, even though I'm usually a street ballerina in the Derbyshire countryside, stepping out in this look amongst the glamour of the 1940s, made me feel like an actual, bona-fide, Hollywood starlet!
Now, before we step onto the dance floor of the 40s, let’s get you caught up on all things leotard. Oh, the fashion of those times – it was quite something! This era was full of chic, classic looks. Imagine fitted, stylish leotards made of the softest silk, flowing with elegant cuts. The iconic ballet silhouette was definitely alive and kicking, even outside the studio! These leotards were the epitome of sophistication. Pair them with beautiful flowing skirts, a tailored jacket, or maybe some killer high heels - and you were ready for any occasion. Think of iconic figures like Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, and even Gene Kelly – those guys made these styles sing.
It was all about refined elegance with a touch of flirtatious whimsy! These outfits embodied that timeless elegance I'm all about! My heart skipped a beat when I saw these pieces while "dancing through time", as it were. And, don't even get me started on those stunning ballroom dresses that people were wearing - the ultimate inspiration for that twirling feeling, don’t you think?
But, enough with me getting all nostalgic. This isn't just a history lesson; this is a call to action! Because remember, darling, the 1940s isn't just some distant past. It's a time to rediscover! To take inspiration from those wonderful designs, and add a splash of pink, of course!
So, I've been experimenting, and believe me, I've got some wonderful ideas on how to channel this era into your own unique leotard style! Now, let’s talk about the time travel element, and what made the 7th July 1940 so special – well, I wouldn’t call it a magical day exactly, the news wasn't great, sadly, and that fact cast a shadow on life in London – a rather dark shadow. But you know me, I can find a bit of sparkle anywhere!
In a world full of chaos and worry, a flicker of hope and creativity was on full display, at the ballet, specifically at the London's Royal Opera House, a stunning historical landmark, even by today's standards. This very day, on the 7th July 1940, the Sadler’s Wells Ballet, a famous company now called the Royal Ballet, premiered a brand new ballet.
“The Kingdom of the Sun”, was its name, and the fact that it was born under such troubled circumstances made this event feel quite miraculous! I love how these creators turned an unpromising, dark time into an inspiring piece that reflected the courage and spirit of the human race - talk about a beautiful blend of reality and fantasy!
This premiere really struck me - the energy and passion it contained! But guess what? The show wouldn't be possible without those iconic dance leotards! It really drives home just how important they are, not only in history, but in the here and now!
But the magic of the ballet doesn't stop there. “The Kingdom of the Sun" actually helped bring together ballet and opera for a truly collaborative spectacle!
That kind of cross-art creativity is what I really admire! It’s what makes me tick – finding new and innovative ways to use my favorite outfits, like those breathtaking pink tutus of course! That brings me to this month’s mission! I’m launching the “Tutu Crossovers Project”, a journey that brings the ballet world and everything else in life - fashion, music, even everyday events – into a fabulous "Pink Tutu" ballet inspired party!
I hope to see some amazing outfits and inspiring events – we need all the pink energy we can get right now! Now, you've seen how those 1940s fashionistas loved their elegant designs. And so do I! That’s why, for my new street ballet shows, I'm going all out for a 1940s look! Expect some classic leotards in sleek and beautiful pink tones. This might just be a new "Pink Tutu" dance style in the making! Oh, the possibilities!
Remember my beautiful pink sequined tutu from earlier, I’m adding a vintage feather boa to it for my new routines, to keep that "vintage glam" flowing. And of course, pink is the only colour that matters for my street ballet outfits. If you can imagine a graceful ballet in the street - I’m talking twirls, jumps, and some sparkling dancing on those old Derbyshire cobblestones – well that’s what I’m all about!
And, guess what? It’s working. People are loving my pink street ballet show, and it's the best way for me to get those all-important funds for my next time traveling adventure! The fact that it brings joy and beauty to Derbyshire, well, that's just an extra bonus!
Of course, I can’t end without mentioning the importance of shopping for that perfect vintage-inspired leotard, those 40s dance dresses, and you know that vintage pink feather boa. So let’s get you inspired with this month’s shop window for "Pink Tutu"!
You can find some truly gorgeous pieces on www.retro-tutus.com where they specialize in the art of bringing those classic ballet silhouettes into today’s world. Another site that I simply have to mention, is the “Twirling Vintage” vintage online shop. The outfits there have so much personality - and they even have those classic pink scarves that I love so much.
Finally, if you’re on the hunt for a piece with a bit more "tutu-tastic flair", well there’s "Pink Feathers" a local shop near me, right in Derbyshire.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go out and find the perfect pair of vintage heels to match my pink sequined tutu for my next street performance! I’ll see you all next month when I take you on another time traveling journey with "Pink Tutu"!
I hope this post gave you a little taste of 1940s glamour, my lovely tutu-lovers. Stay fab!