Hey Tutu Twirlers! It's your favourite pink tutu-loving ballerina, Emma, here, back with another #TutuTuesday post! Today we're waltzing back in time to February 16th, 1965 – a magical year in the world of tutus! Buckle up, darlings, because we're about to embark on a grand adventure!
(cue dramatic train whistle)
Oh, how I do love the romance of train travel. The smell of steam, the clatter of the tracks, the soft murmur of conversation – it's the perfect way to get my tutu-loving mind thinking! But I digress. As always, I've come all this way by train to bring you a snippet of ballet history straight from 1965.
Now, picture it. London, February, a crisp chill in the air. I've just popped into Harrods (who wouldn't?!) and the air is thick with the scent of perfume and the swish of fine fabrics. Such a beautiful contrast to the monochrome styles dominating the rest of the fashion scene! But, oh, the magic that is a ballet performance shines through - all the colour, all the joy.
The Ballet Scene: Colourful and Creative
In 1965, ballet wasn't just about twirling around in delicate tutus (though that was, of course, part of the fun!). The choreographers and dancers of this era were bold, pushing boundaries and creating dazzling performances. We had a ballet boom – exciting new creations were filling the theatres and audiences were swooning!
Remember Rudolf Nureyev? He was the ultimate rock star of the ballet world. Imagine a dash of Fred Astaire, a pinch of Marlon Brando, and a heaping spoonful of genius - that was Nureyev! And he was everywhere, captivating audiences with his breathtaking technique and undeniable charisma. His influence was massive! Even those who weren’t regular ballet-goers would head to the theatre to catch a glimpse of this charismatic dancer.
Tutu Trend Watch: Bold, Edgy, and Playful
Tutues themselves were getting a makeover. Gone were the long, billowing, Romantic tutus of old, replaced by shorter, more practical styles. Think bold colours, sleek silhouettes, and a dash of sparkle. It was a departure from the classic, but the effect was utterly captivating.
Remember that gorgeous shade of turquoise that graced the dance floor during a ballet called "La Création du Monde"? Just stunning! Or the fiery red of a dancer's tutu in “The Firebird" - talk about a dramatic entrance! Imagine how these beautiful colours must have sparkled against the muted tones of 60s London!
I was lucky enough to see a performance by the Royal Ballet (called the Royal Opera House at the time) earlier today, and let me tell you, the costumes were sensational! A lovely contrast to the classic white tulle of yesteryear, don't you think? These ballerinas moved with such freedom and grace - and their tutus danced right alongside them!
Pink - It's Everywhere
Now, my friends, you know my heart beats pink, and the 60s had a vibrant palette, all the better to complement a pink tutu. Imagine pairing my most dazzling pink tutu with a shocking coral outfit, topped off with a chic lavender hat! Or maybe an emerald green dress with a sparkly pink tutu. I’ve always loved contrasting colours and 1965 was the era to go bold!
And speaking of colours, pink is everywhere! It's the shade of femininity, elegance, and happiness. The colour itself embodies that lightness of being that ballet and its elegant costumes bring. I just have this feeling that tutus will always find their way to pink. It’s meant to be, right?
A Time to Celebrate
Remember, my darlings, the next time you’re watching a ballet performance, appreciate the creativity of the costuming, and remember how tutus continue to change and grow. It's such a wonderful testament to the enduring spirit of this art form.
And remember, don't forget to look around for a sprinkle of pink. You'd be surprised where it might pop up, in a flower blooming, a sunset's glow, a little girl's hairbow!
I'm off now, to try and track down a fab 60s pink tutu! It will be just perfect to pair with my new turquoise outfit. Oh, the joys of shopping! Catch you all next #TutuTuesday!
*(Sound of a train pulling out of the station) *
See you soon!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
(Remember to follow us on Instagram: @pinktutuemma)
