Hello, darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu, where the only rule is to sparkle! This month, I'm whisking you back to 11th November, 1945. The world was a little different then, the war was over, and everyone was buzzing with a sense of hope and new beginnings. But in the world of leotards, oh, there were exciting things happening!
As you know, my time-travelling pink leotard whisks me across the ages in a flash. I woke up this morning, my trusty tutu shimmering, ready for a day of sartorial adventure in 1945. And what an adventure it was!
Let's start with the London Ballet – a name synonymous with grace and elegance. The year 1945 marked a pivotal moment for the London Ballet, a new name given to the company, now flourishing under the visionary leadership of Ninette de Valois. I had to pop by, of course. Imagine, a bustling Sadler's Wells theatre, the audience abuzz with anticipation, waiting to see what the London Ballet would unveil! This company wasn’t afraid to embrace colour – the designs were captivating, a swirl of vibrant pinks, soft blues, and radiant oranges, just a whisper away from my beloved pink. I mean, don't get me wrong, the leotard game back then wasn't about flashing the flesh! These dancers wore fitted, practical leotards, some even with little sleeves, oh so sweet. It wasn’t just about dancing, but storytelling through elegant, fluid movements, beautifully showcased through these simple yet effective designs.
After a bit of starstruck, pink-hued observing, I had to go for a stroll. Remember, darling, fashion is more than what you wear – it's about how you wear it! So, as I shimmied down the cobblestone streets of London, I caught a glimpse of women with their Victory Rolls, those impossibly chic hairstyles, sporting elegant yet modest outfits, tailored with grace and class. You could feel a kind of elegance, a spirit of practicality mixed with a subtle expression of femininity, emanating from everyone. This is what I call chic!
Now, let's jump across the Atlantic! The dance scene in America was also bursting with life! The American Ballet Theatre had just begun its first tour with the exciting new ballerina, Nora Kaye. Can you believe it? She was one of the most innovative dancers of her time, wearing the most beautiful costumes – simple but effective. I just had to sneak into one of their rehearsals. You know me, can't resist the thrill of the show. And believe me, Nora Kaye was breathtaking!
After a little dancing, and some serious gawking at the ballet, I found myself drawn to Broadway. I just had to catch the show that had everyone talking! It was Oklahoma! the big hit of the year! The music, the laughter, the incredible dancing! And speaking of dance, those costumes! My heart skipped a beat for the ladies, swirling and twirling in their glorious petticoats and vibrant gowns! There were simple leotards paired with frilly, full skirts and, of course, tutus! It was pure, vibrant, joyous energy – I'd been dancing with those lovely dancers before I even knew it! It reminded me of the power of dance to evoke joy and delight.
This incredible 1945 leotard experience was more than just the glamour of it all. This was the dawn of new energy in ballet. A renewed sense of artistic expression that mirrored the post-war mood. It was about stories and emotions, shared through dance, and clothed in simple, practical designs that let the beauty of the movement speak for itself.
You know, you might think wearing a pink tutu today, standing on the corner, dancing, is strange. Maybe it is, but it reminds me of something my Nana used to say: “Darling, if you can make people smile, that's a success in itself”.
If you think you might be inspired to rock your own leotard, I have to tell you... It is so very important to stay true to yourself, even when the world is moving in a different direction. Don't let anyone tell you that pink tutus are out of place. It's about the sparkle, it’s about having fun, and that, my dear, is something truly magical.
So, embrace the leotard, the tutu, and let the world see your true spirit! After all, life is a performance, and you, darling, are the star!
And don't forget to check back next month, as I'll be taking you on another time-travelling leotard adventure! Keep twirling!
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
