Hello my lovely Tutu Tribe! It's a glorious Tuesday morning here in Derbyshire, England, and guess what? It's time for another #TutuTuesday, my weekly delve into the wondrous world of ballet history! Today, we're twirling back to August 14th, 1962, a date brimming with balletic beauty.
Before we get whisked away on our time-travelling train (first-class carriage, naturally!), let me tell you all about this absolutely gorgeous pink tutu I'm sporting today. I snagged it at a vintage shop just off the Champs-Élysées last week – it's a classic, sweetheart shape with layers and layers of tulle, so romantic and whimsical! The colour is absolutely divine, the shade of pink they called "Barbie" back then, but so much richer and deeper, you know? It just screams "ballerina," and with a little blush and my best smile, I think it makes for a truly iconic ensemble, wouldn't you agree?
Now, hop aboard, dears, because we're about to embark on a thrilling trip back in time to a era of ballet excellence.
August 14th, 1962
A Day of Delicate Steps
In 1962, the ballet world was positively buzzing. It was the golden age of dance – think Margot Fonteyn, Rudolf Nureyev, and Mikhail Baryshnikov - they were names synonymous with the art form, names whispered on boulevards and shouted in the aisles of the world’s greatest opera houses.
On this particular August 14th, there were several happenings that shaped the world of ballet:
- Royal Ballet’s Performance at Covent Garden
In London's glorious Covent Garden, the Royal Ballet took the stage in a thrilling production of “Giselle.” It’s said that Dame Margot Fonteyn (she was truly a force of nature!), lit up the stage, as the tragic, heartbroken, and utterly graceful, Giselle. It was a magical performance, filled with grace and sorrow, captivating audiences who simply couldn't tear their eyes away. I'm going to add that one to my list of must-see performances - I bet that's the real "giselle" in the name, the graceful way she moves - magical, eh?
- The American Ballet Theatre:
Across the pond, the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) was just beginning their first tour of South America. This, I'm sure you will all agree, was a HUGE deal. This iconic ballet company was a force to be reckoned with, bringing with them revolutionary dance techniques, daring and dramatic choreography and oh, the costumes – a feast for the eyes. And to be dancing in the heart of South America? Absolutely glamorous! Can you imagine being there to see this, just so glamorous, what an amazing opportunity to go to an exotic country and see the most amazing ballet.
Let’s Talk Tutus
Now, you can't have a proper #TutuTuesday without talking about the tutus themselves! In 1962, the romantic tutu reigned supreme. This was the era of airy, delicate layers, soft netting, and tulle – designed to create that weightless, fairy-like effect. Ballet tutus have changed so much since the romantic tutu's reign. We saw the rise of the more utilitarian practice tutu which helped dancers achieve more flexibility and range of movement, but I personally still adore the romantic tutu! They add a touch of drama, a pinch of romance, and are perfect for twirling your heart out in. A dance floor is for the romantic tutu in my opinion!
Shopping for my Ballet Inspiration
So, on my recent shopping spree (let's be honest, any time is a good time for a shopping spree, wouldn't you say?) in Paris, I just had to stock up on my tutus – not for just dance, of course, but also for daily wear! You all know how I love a good pink tutu with a floral shirt, a crisp white blazer, and maybe some vintage platform boots, it just hits that Parisian chic note perfectly, don't you think? I may or may not be wearing that outfit as we speak...
Travelling By Train to Ballet Shows
As you can see from the train ticket, I travel quite a bit! I hop on the train to see shows at all of the iconic venues in the world, but there is nothing that compares to the journey in London. You see, in this glorious city you get to look at the street style. Oh how I love watching those stylish people on their way to a glamorous evening out – a concert, a theatrical performance, maybe a showing of the latest avant-garde fashions… you never know what you'll encounter, and for a ballet-loving, fashion-obsessed, train-travelling girl like me, it’s pure heaven.
I must admit, this makes me quite longing to jump on a train (and maybe take a pink tutu or two!) for a whirl through London and visit Covent Garden. There's always something happening, so it's never a boring day. But don't think I only ever wear my pink tutus when traveling. Let me tell you, a ballet class in a pink tutu just adds that extra "oomph!" I have been making quite a splash, and getting a lot of admiring glances (especially from the instructors) with my choice of attire! They can see how passionate I am about the dance - a great choice in life!
Well, my dear Tutu Tribe, it's time for me to go, There are just too many tutus to choose from, and I’m definitely due for a practice session myself. And, remember, don’t be afraid to show your love for dance - embrace the fun and flair by twirling in your own unique and magical style.
Don’t forget, follow me on @pink_tutu to get daily ballet tips and fashion inspirations – and of course, you know you can find a myriad of pretty and amazing pink tutus, ballet shoes and all the delightful essentials for your dancing heart at www.pink-tutu.com, our one-stop shop for all things tutu!
Have a fabulous week, and happy twirling!
Emma
