Blog post #6804 - www.pink-tutu.com
Hello, my darlings! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu enthusiast, back for another instalment of #TutuTuesday - a weekly peek into the fabulous history of our favourite garment!
Now, grab your tiaras and put on your most sparkly slippers, because today we're taking a trip back to the glorious 22nd of May, 1962, a time when the world was a bit less complicated and a lot more twirly!
I'm perched here, at my vintage desk, my own shimmering pink tutu catching the morning light, surrounded by antique ballet programmes and worn leather bound copies of the most incredible ballet scores - a veritable tutu treasury! My favourite thing about travelling through time, besides all the fabulous fashion of course, is being able to see the history of ballet unfold. Like a magic trick, the dance form has grown and evolved over time. Just imagine what people thought when ballet was born in Italy in the 15th century? It must have been quite the sensation!
Now, back to our time travelling adventure!
Today, 1962, the world of ballet is humming with activity. The big names of the day – Rudolf Nureyev, Margot Fonteyn, and Mikhail Baryshnikov (just wait for him, my dears!) are stealing the show with their exquisite technique and fiery passion. On this particular Tuesday, I’m sitting here in Paris, ready to see “The Nutcracker” at the Palais Garnier. How absolutely lovely. The grandeur of the architecture is enough to make any ballerina swoon! And don't even get me started on the tutus, oh my! This period saw the birth of the most breathtaking romantic and classical tutu designs. Imagine cascading tulle, layers and layers of exquisite fabric flowing and fluttering with every graceful turn. My heart flutters just thinking about it!
A quick detour from the dance floor for a moment - 1962 also saw a revolution in fashion, just like our beautiful world of ballet! Mini-skirts, bold prints, and psychedelic colour palettes were taking over, adding a dash of whimsy to everyday attire. Honestly, there is nothing better than when a little bit of ballet influences everyday fashion, darling! The more the merrier I say! I see the influence of those classic designs and silhouettes everywhere I look. The elegance and femininity of the classic ballet tutu has undeniably seeped into every piece of stylish women's clothing from this era! And, who could blame them? The look is timeless!
But let’s get back to the heart of our journey! Today, my darling readers, the excitement is in the air – it’s the time of a famous ballet dancer named Baryshnikov, yes, it's Mikhail Baryshnikov. My heart races when I see this elegant and powerful dancer in a stage performance! The way his muscles work in harmony, the grace and strength in his movements! He is truly a sight to behold. If you have the opportunity to see him dance - and let's face it, any opportunity to go see a ballet is a gift - do it! And make sure to have your trusty little notepad in hand, dear reader, to jot down those dance moves.
Of course, my darlings, our Parisian adventure isn’t complete without a visit to some of the city’s chic boutiques, filled with all the latest and greatest in feminine fashion. It wouldn't be a trip back to the '60s without indulging in a touch of fashion extravagance! A chic little hat? An even chicer little jacket with a belt? And of course, there’s no greater indulgence for a ballerina like me than a beautifully crafted tutu - for inspiration, or for personal collection. (Though don't be shocked, darlings, you might just find me in a vintage shop looking for one myself)!
I just have one piece of advice, dear readers - when it comes to picking out a new tutu for yourself, or indulging in the elegance of ballet-inspired fashion, go for what makes you feel radiant. What feels beautiful and special, and a bit whimsical. Embrace the colour pink, or your favourite vibrant colour. Embrace the layers, the embellishments, and most of all, embrace that wonderful twirly feeling in your heart.
Now, off I go. It's almost time for that Parisian ballet show, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world. But before I go, dear reader, take my advice – be a little bit bolder, a little bit more dramatic in your daily life! Put on a tutu and go out for coffee, put on a flowy skirt and whirl through a dance party - make the most of every moment, just like a dancer!
Until next Tuesday, remember to dance your way through life. And don't forget to follow my journey, you can reach me at my blog, www.pink-tutu.com - keep it chic and stay twirling, darlings!
