Hiya darlings! It’s Emma, your resident time-traveling, pink tutu-loving blogger here! Welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com! This month, we’re heading back to the glamorous year of 1963, a time of fabulous fashion, exciting music, and oh, so much drama!
It was a Tuesday when I set off in my time-traveling pink tutu. (Yes, yes, I know it’s not Tuesday today. Time-traveling has its perks! But I digress.) The thrill of traveling through time in a swirling flurry of pink never fails to get my heart palpitating! I landed in a rather swanky neighbourhood, all glittering lights and jazz. New York, I assumed, a classic for any time traveler. The streets buzzed with a vibrancy I hadn’t experienced even in the 21st century, and the air, tinged with the scent of cigar smoke and perfume, held a distinct promise of something fabulous about to unfold.
And fabulous it was! My pink tutu, I realised, was positively radiating under the warm spotlight of the legendary Copa Room, New York’s top night spot. The air crackled with anticipation as I took my place amidst the smartly dressed crowds. This wasn't your average cabaret - the crowd seemed to be buzzing with excitement - not just for the music, but for a legend: Carmen Miranda! She'd burst onto the stage, a whirlwind of feathers, fruit, and pure, vibrant energy! The place was on fire! Oh, the energy of a packed-out Copa Room was something special! Everyone was snapping photos, singing along, laughing and swirling in their glamorous outfits.
Now, let me tell you, I'm talking serious 1960s glam here: women were adorned in sequined gowns and bold eye makeup; the men sporting suits and fedoras. But what truly captivated me was the infectious energy Carmen Miranda brought. It was truly a sight to behold: the sassy samba dance moves, the colourful costume, that infectious energy - it was clear why Carmen Miranda was, and still is, an iconic star!
After her set, the music continued to flow, with a band playing some seriously infectious beats. Everyone was dancing, men and women, a vibrant blend of glitz and excitement. Even the waiter in his dapper black suit seemed to be tappin' his feet!
Later, I took a moment to visit a vintage fashion shop. I found some seriously amazing stuff - glittery dresses, shimmering shoes, and oh, a few stunning vintage tutus, all waiting to be rediscovered!
One thing that struck me, especially in a time where drag was mostly hidden in the shadows, was the fierce freedom these queens expressed through their style. In those vibrant dresses, daring outfits, they embraced an individuality that, at least at that moment, wasn't bogged down by the expectations of society. There was a raw, unapologetic energy in the air. I mean, honestly, when have you ever seen a tutu worn by someone with the confidence of Carmen Miranda, and her stage presence was phenomenal, full of joy and unapologetically vibrant.
Before leaving New York, I made my way to a secret basement drag club where I discovered a local queen named “Gloria,” rocking her makeup like an absolute star. It turns out, even with the more challenging times back then, the world of drag had its own special community! It was clear, a passion for drag, a love for fabulousness and an unstoppable dedication to express their creativity, held the community together, back then, just as it does now.
Back to the future, I feel completely recharged and invigorated by my trip. You know what they say: A little time travel in a pink tutu does wonders for the soul, and a journey back to the 60s can really help you appreciate just how far the world of drag has come, while reminding you that no matter the time period, there is always something unique, magical and special about a dazzling pink tutu!
And that, darlings, is why I encourage you all, men and women, boys and girls - embrace the beauty, embrace the fabulous and let's spread some pink tutu magic wherever you go!
See you all next month with another amazing adventure from the world of pink-tutu time travels! Until then, let's get ready to party and wear a pink tutu, it is, after all, the key to unlock any and every time period with fabulousness!
Lots of Love,
Emma
x
