Hello my darling darlings! It’s Emma here, back with another #TutuTuesday installment of my beloved Ballet Tutu History blog. I’ve just hopped off the Orient Express, having spent the most fabulous weekend in Paris – and yes, of course, I wore pink tutus the whole time! 🩰💖
This week we’re travelling back to February 11th, 1964, a date which holds a special place in ballet history. Can you believe it’s already Blog Post #6894?! I simply love sharing my passion for tutus and ballet with all of you.
Now, let's dive into the glamorous world of ballet and discover what was happening in the tutu realm back in 1964. It was a year of incredible performances and captivating designs. Think billowing skirts, luxurious fabrics, and those iconic pointy shoes – ah, just thinking about it sends shivers down my spine!
Let's begin with the main attraction - what was happening in the world of ballet? Well, it was a year of phenomenal artistry. The legendary Margot Fonteyn, with her graceful moves and enchanting presence, was captivating audiences with her timeless performances. Remember "The Sleeping Beauty?" A ballet that swept audiences off their feet with its sheer beauty, was experiencing a surge of popularity, and was the perfect opportunity for designers to showcase their flair with grand and ornate tutus. I remember one in particular, featuring layers of delicate tulle, each shimmering under the stage lights – it was absolutely divine! ✨
Now, back to fashion. What were the trendiest styles of tutus in 1964? Think short and sweet. This era was about embracing a more contemporary, sleek silhouette. Designers like Christian Dior, renowned for his exquisite couture, created tutu-inspired pieces for high fashion, bringing that ethereal ballet magic to everyday life. Imagine a ballerina’s lightness and grace reflected in a dress… how utterly captivating!
And talking of capturing imaginations, I had a truly unforgettable experience this past weekend. I stumbled upon the Musée de la Mode et du Textile in Paris, and stumbled upon a whole exhibition showcasing the evolution of ballet costumes, from the 18th century right up to the present day! Imagine the tutu from "Swan Lake" on display! The exquisite embroidery, the layers of lace and tulle… I’m telling you, it was an absolute dream come true for any tutu aficionado like me!
I'm off to London for a week to take in a few more shows - "The Nutcracker" is back in town, and the choreography promises to be simply sensational. And of course, you can expect a whole new wave of #TutuTuesday posts featuring some truly exquisite tutus from the Royal Opera House's costume archives! 💖
Until next week, my darling darlings. Remember to embrace the joy of ballet, wear your tutus proudly, and always keep that twinkle in your eye! ✨
Yours in tulle,
Emma
