Hello darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveler, and welcome back to another #TutuTuesday! This week we’re whisking ourselves back to 12th February 1963, just a little over six decades ago! It's been a rather chilly week in Derbyshire (as per usual!) but a warm trip to the past has cheered me right up, as always!
This week’s time travel took me to, drumroll please, New York City! You see, darlings, back in the 1960s, the centre of the ballet universe was very much in America. As always, fashion was a big part of this trip. You can't think about the 1960s without thinking of the mod and groovy styles. It's not too dissimilar to today, actually. All those miniskirts and playful outfits have really come full circle, wouldn’t you say?
But, before we delve into those fabulous fashions, let's remember what made the 12th of February 1963 so special! This was the date that the New York City Ballet debuted their absolutely mesmerising production of “A Midsummer Night's Dream". Talk about a true highlight of the New York social calendar! The dancers were dressed in their dreamy and ethereal tutus, shimmering under the stage lights and bringing the story to life. The sheer artistry and beauty of it all is truly unforgettable.
My trip took me to The Metropolitan Opera House – such a majestic building, with all its gold and glamour. I found myself swept up in the sheer grandeur of it all, surrounded by elegant ladies and dapper gentlemen. You just couldn't miss the buzz of excitement. It was as if everyone was feeling the anticipation of seeing a magical production brought to life on stage. And believe me, it certainly didn't disappoint.
But of course, my eyes were glued to the tutus! Now, the designs in 1963 were a world away from what we see in ballet today, and it wasn't about maximalist glitz. These tutus had a sense of simplicity and grace, but they were certainly full of character. Think of them as a palette cleanser compared to the dramatic tutus of the Victorian Era – a lighter, freer interpretation that moved gracefully with the dancer's every gesture.
After the show, I took myself off to one of the city's iconic department stores. Bergdorf Goodman, Lord & Taylor – oh, I love those names! These havens of high fashion were brimming with the most incredible styles! We’re talking sleek silhouettes, a vibrant burst of colour and those gloriously iconic pea coats and bold hats. I bought myself a pair of white kitten heel pumps and some stylish brightly coloured gloves – a perfect addition to any 1960s look. Of course, I always ensure that at least one item in my travelling wardrobe is pink, to add a splash of girly charm and feminine allure – wouldn't you agree, darlings?
This trip was about much more than just fashion, though! It was all about embracing the atmosphere and capturing a sense of the zeitgeist – that's what time travel is all about!
And 1963 New York City was bursting with energy. Everywhere you went there was music pumping from record stores and street performances bringing colour and rhythm to every corner. I even caught a live ballet performance in Central Park! Yes, you heard right, darlings! This ballet in the open air was captivating – imagine dancing under the open sky surrounded by greenery! Now that's what I call a performance that embraces nature!
From catching a ride on the stately subway, with its old-world charm, to visiting the Museum of Modern Art, 1960s New York truly embraced the future. It was all about innovation and embracing a new way of life, whether through fashion, art or architecture.
However, not all was sunshine and roses. Despite the dazzling social scene, the city also had its fair share of protests. There were powerful demonstrations for civil rights, drawing attention to injustice and advocating for change. This reminder that the fight for equality is ongoing never fails to bring a lump to my throat, especially seeing the powerful imagery and slogans from those days.
Ultimately, 1960s New York was a vibrant melting pot of creativity, social change, and a love for expressive art that resonates through the decades.
Now, dear friends, don't just imagine 1960s New York with its beautiful buildings and exciting energy – let's make 2023 a little bit 1960s! We’re talking about embodying those timeless ideals of expressing your individuality, staying true to yourself, and always finding ways to create joy and beauty in everyday life.
Remember to stay true to yourself, keep your chin up and dance your heart out! After all, there's nothing quite as powerful as the beauty of a graceful tutu and a smiling face to bring light into the world!
As always, darlings, don't forget to let me know what you think! Leave a comment below with your thoughts on 1960s tutus and what fashion trends you're loving from the 1960s right now!
Stay tutu fabulous,
Emma xx
