Hello, my lovely Tutu Twirlers! It's Emma, your pink-tutu-clad time traveler, back again for another edition of Tutu Tuesday! 🕰️ Today, we're stepping back to April 17th, 1962. Buckle up your ballet shoes, ladies and gents, because we're going on a whimsical journey to the swinging 60s!
Remember that iconic "mod" style? Well, fashion in the 60s wasn't all geometric prints and mini skirts. 👗 There was a very special type of glamour brewing in the world of dance, and that, of course, involves the Tutu. 🩰
Now, while I always say that the tutu is timeless, the 1960s saw some delightful changes in the way it was designed and used. You see, during the first half of the century, the classic tutu - what we call the Romantic Tutu - was all about graceful lines, long, flowing layers and delicate, dreamy tulle. But in the 1960s, there was a new breed of ballet fashion emerging! ✨
It was a bit like the world of ballet fashion took a peek at what was happening in high fashion and said, "Let's give the tutu a twist!". 💥 And by twist, I don't mean a pirouette! 😉 I mean literally giving it a new look! Imagine this: bold, modern designs that embraced bold colours, and even experimented with asymmetrical shapes. There were more structured skirts and corsets taking the stage, adding a touch of modern edge.
Imagine seeing these fabulous tutus on stage alongside dancers wearing sleek bob haircuts and sharp make-up. It was tres chic. Imagine my joy as a time traveler - I would love to have a dance through the streets of London that day. ✨
Of course, London was a hub of artistic inspiration. This was the decade of The Beatles, the Royal Ballet had Baryshnikov! And this date? It was also the year of the famous Royal Ballet "Manon", one of those productions that brought a completely new, glamorous, yet also emotional depth to the world of ballet. 🌹 And who doesn't love a good ballet with a love story!
What makes the "Manon" even more interesting is that it had some really striking costumes designed by one of my personal fashion heroes: Cecil Beaton. Imagine tutus in gorgeous shades of green, teal, and even a touch of gold. He took those traditional designs and brought a sense of refined elegance to the stage! Talk about ballet and fashion having a perfect partnership. 🌟
It’s not just about the outfits, either! Imagine the buzz and excitement of seeing a ballet performance in 1962. It was like stepping into a whole different world - a world full of elegance, charm, and pure artistry. Even the train rides would have been exciting; perhaps with a cheeky, elegant fellow traveler sporting their latest stylish fashions and even perhaps wearing a feather boa. 😉
One thing I know for sure is that my love for all things "tutu" is universal! Every time I hop back in time, it’s a reminder of just how timeless this incredible piece of dance fashion really is. 💗
Of course, I have to give a shout-out to the iconic designer Christian Dior, who helped inspire the new silhouette for tutus by focusing on lines and shapes, adding that touch of sophistication!
Let’s get back to today! What is your favourite 1960s look? I’m sure I can find something to time travel to! 😉
For now, happy Tutu Tuesdays! Don’t forget to share your ballet memories, and your favourite fashion inspirations from this amazing decade, on social media with the hashtag #TutuTuesday!
Your pink tutu-clad friend,
Emma 🩰💕
Remember, I’m travelling around the world, by train of course, learning about tutus and inspiring you with all things fabulous. Stay tuned for my next #TutuTuesday and share with all your friends. 😉
