Oh, darling! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your go-to spot for all things tutu and all things pink! It's a glorious Tuesday morning here in my Derbyshire studio, and my teacup is steaming with a perfect Earl Grey as I write. And what's on the menu for this week's #TutuTuesday? You guessed it, my dears – a historical voyage through the evolution of the ballet tutu!
This week we're jet-setting back to the vibrant, stylish year of 1964, which for this blog, means a whirlwind trip across the pond! I simply adore a good transatlantic voyage on the luxurious Orient Express – with my fluffy pink tulle train whipping up a little theatrical breeze, of course. You wouldn't believe the stares I get in first class – it's pure entertainment!
1964 – A Year of Swinging Styles
1964 was a year of major changes. The world was experiencing the rise of pop music, a blossoming counterculture movement, and the thrilling surge of artistic expression across all disciplines. This creative surge perfectly mirrored the evolution of the ballet tutu.
While tutus still had their place in traditional productions, contemporary choreographers were starting to play with the concept of the tutu. Remember that amazing “Les Noces” ballet choreographed by Bronislava Nijinska in the 1920s? Its simple, angular tutu inspired new wave designs. These modern pieces embraced dynamic, geometric designs, and experimented with materials and colours, often pushing the boundaries of what a tutu could be.
Speaking of pushing boundaries, 1964 marked the birth of the “short tutu” or "midi tutu" which sits high on the hips and looks utterly chic with a chic pixie crop and sleek boots – just picture Twiggy at a ballet performance, wouldn’t she be dazzling! I mean, honestly, who wouldn’t look fantastic in a short tutu! It adds an extra touch of "oo la la" and lets you dance with total freedom.
But that's not all! 1964 also marked the year of a fabulous dance phenomenon – the rise of "Ballet in the Streets"! In America especially, people were literally taking their love of dance outside of the theater and onto the streets, using public spaces as impromptu stages for exciting, experimental dance performances! Imagine it, darling! Tutus whirling under the open sky!
And can you believe it, it's 21st April, 1964 - what a significant date! On this very day, 59 years ago, the most famous British group, The Beatles, arrived in New York for their very first American concert at Carnegie Hall – how much fun does that sound?! They went on to win four Grammys in 1965, becoming superstars all across the globe! But wait, there’s more! This date also holds an equally special moment – a fabulous dance competition – the very first ever American Ballet Theatre Gala was being held on this very day! Can you imagine the buzz in the air – it must have been incredible. This momentous occasion was a key marker in the history of ballet in the USA. A moment for American talent to shine – and dance the night away!
A Journey Through the Wardrobe
To celebrate all this fabulous history, I decided to get all creative this week and I designed an exclusive tutu that's perfect for celebrating a dance of eras – The “1964 Dream.” Think flowing tiers, soft blush pink tulle with hints of shimmering turquoise. This little number can go from ballroom to street in a flash! You could pair it with an elegant high-necked top, a crisp white shirt, or maybe a stunning silk dress - you’d never want to take it off.
Speaking of dressing up, I must share with you the newest addition to my ballet shoe collection: pointe shoes in bright shocking pink! Aren't they utterly divine? I couldn't resist a touch of bold colour in my shoe-cabinet, it’s the perfect accent for a classic ballerina look. I've paired them with my latest vintage lace dress from Harrods for my next ballet performance. Let me tell you, every outfit needs a pop of something spectacular – pink, of course, for a touch of theatrical drama.
A Ballet Fan's Paradise
Darling, as I wrap up my blog for today, let me ask you: Where is your favorite place to enjoy a ballet show? For me, it's a tie! I love the majesty and history of the Royal Opera House, but there's something truly special about watching a ballet performance under the starry sky – the magic of an open-air theatre experience just does something to me.
You know what I believe? I think every place can be a ballet stage with a bit of imagination! This tutu life, it’s all about celebrating the beauty, the artistry, and the pure joy of dance – wherever that joy may take us!
**And darling, remember – you don't need a fancy dress to join in. Put on your favorite comfy outfit, and maybe a cute pink headband or a sprinkle of glitter, and start twirling! Your very own private dance party – now that’s my kind of celebration. And remember, dear readers, to keep twirling!
Until next Tuesday,
Yours in Tulle and Glitter, Emma**
