Hey there, lovelies! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu-wearing ballet blogger, ready to take you on a trip back to 1985 - a truly remarkable year for the world of ballet! Buckle up, darlings, because we're about to waltz through some incredible performances, fashionable frocks, and a time when ballet really was a spectacle.
Now, 1985 was an absolute explosion of creative energy. It was the year of iconic fashion trends like leg warmers (ooh, I still love a good pair!) and the big shoulder pad craze, which was definitely reflected in some of the ballet costumes ā a bit less flattering for the dancers, I must say, but you know what, sometimes you've just got to embrace the era!
Speaking of ballet fashion, can we just pause for a moment to admire the artistry of The Royal Balletās production of āGiselleā in 1985, which featured costumes designed by Anthony Dowellās wife, Svetlana Beriosova. Oh, darling, the attention to detail in those costumes was simply exquisite! The pale blues, greens, and browns, and the intricate patterns...pure magic! They really brought to life the wistful spirit of the classic story. And don't even get me started on Natalia Makarova's stunning performance as Giselle! She truly captured the innocence and desperation of the character ā she was so beautifully expressive, just breathtaking!
Now, back to our whirlwind tour of the ballet world in 1985. Letās go to New York and get a taste of Mikhail Baryshnikov's incredible performances. He had the whole city captivated with his presence. Imagine the elegance and grace, and the pure power he emanated - that's a truly captivating performance! His ability to shift seamlessly from balletic poise to explosive power just made him even more magnetic to watch. He was simply electrifying. And American Ballet Theatre's "Swan Lake" performance had everyone talking, darling! Can you imagine, the swans floating effortlessly across the stage, embodying such beauty and fragility, and the evil sorcerer? Oh, those dramatic movements - they truly embodied the tale.
Over in London this year, there was a little-known (but oh-so-gorgeous) production of āLa Fille Mal GardĆ©e,ā starring the fantastic Sylvie Guillem, with her dynamic stage presence. Oh darling, she really owned that stage! The sheer athleticism and artistic expression that she displayed, oh, it's simply incredible! She embodied the youthful energy and independent spirit of the character beautifully. This was such a fun show to watch. You just knew Sylvie was going to become a legend! And how's this for some fashion history: In 1985, The Royal Ballet hosted the first International Ballet Festival at the Royal Opera House! Now, that was truly exciting.
Of course, the iconic Margot Fonteyn was still gracefully gliding through ballet stages in 1985! Weāve got to remember her for those remarkable performances with Nureyev. It's fascinating how both the ballet scene and fashion moved together in a graceful harmony!
1985 was also a remarkable year for choreographic masterpieces! Remember William Forsythe's āIn the Middle, Somewhat Elevated,ā which really changed how we perceived ballet - a combination of sharp lines, energetic movements, and innovative contemporary elements ā truly fascinating! We owe a lot to these iconic ballet pioneers. They weren't afraid to challenge traditions and showcase new possibilities. That's what made 1985 so revolutionary, truly the best of times!
Okay, lovelies, time for a little peek into the world of fashion! This is the year that ballet's embrace of color started to explode - oh darling, those vibrant, luxurious colours used in many of the costume designs. Imagine Rudolf Nureyevās elegant costumes. They were simply iconic, the peak of the ballet style! This trend for vibrant hues is, dare I say, a trend we should revisit today! Now, the beauty of this year, and something that still stands strong today, is that dance became less and less exclusive! It began breaking out from the stage! You couldnāt go to a party in 1985 without bumping into a street dancer or two ā the moves, the outfits! Oh, how we embraced street dance then. Remember those Miami Vice costumes, my darlings? Iām not saying the leg warmers and colorful attire weren't stylish, because they were, they were fantastic - a time to let those legs shine, that's for sure! They're making a comeback these days, darling, I can definitely see the trend repeating, so maybe we should look to this year for some style inspiration!
Hereās my biggest piece of advice, lovelies. You donāt need to be in a lavish theater to embrace the magic of ballet. Step outside! Dance in the streets, dance in your living rooms, dance at a party - it's the spirit, the passion for expression that matters. Remember to channel those 1985 vibes! It's truly infectious and contagious. It was a time to celebrate life with every step, a truly joyful era in the ballet world.
So go forth and wear those bright colours! Put on your tutus - any colour, but preferably pink! Itās what we all need today, and what this beautiful year was about! Remember - even if you donāt own a tutu (you should! Itās definitely an essential fashion accessory for a proper ballet enthusiast) then channel the energy of a tutu - a dance with joy and confidence, a willingness to just be yourself and embrace all that comes your way!
See you soon, darlings! Stay stylish, stay sparkly, and never stop dancing!
Yours truly,
Emma
(Pink Tutu Enthusiast, Time Traveller and All Things Ballet)
