Hello my darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu wearing blogger, Emma, here, back again with another fabulously frothy dive into the world of ballet history.
This week, I’m taking you on a trip back in time – right back to March 16th, 1965!
Oh, how I adore stepping back in time! It's all so very glamorous, particularly the fashion! This trip involved a fab train ride, with vintage carriages and a handsome gentleman in a tweed suit (definitely a fan of his hat!) 🎩
Anyway, where were we? 1965… ah yes, what a time! The world was dancing to the rhythm of The Beatles, Motown was electrifying the airwaves, and the miniskirt had just burst onto the scene, setting hearts aflutter with its audacious shortness. But did you know, back then, there was a certain trend happening in the world of ballet? I’m talking tutus, of course, darling!
Back in 1965, a rather delightful ballet called "La Fille mal gardée" (The Wayward Daughter) was sweeping the stage at the Royal Opera House in London. A charmingly mischievous tale of a young woman with her heart set on a young man, despite her mother's disapproval, it's a story as old as time (and probably much funnier!).
You simply had to be seen at the ballet in those days. It was all the rage. Think long flowing gowns, elegant gloves, and perfectly coiffed hair (maybe with a hint of hairspray - you know how I love that! ). Oh, the thrill of spotting the latest styles amongst the audience! 😉
Now, back to our star of the show, the tutu. What’s so fascinating about 1965 tutus is the way they embraced the burgeoning “modern” look of the times. While the classic Romantic era tutu with its fluffy layers and soft lines reigned supreme in certain productions, a new, more contemporary and geometric look was emerging in others.
This look took inspiration from the growing trends of fashion. I mean, wouldn't it be utterly fabulous to dance a modern ballet wearing a tutu that mirrors the silhouettes of Mary Quant's fashion revolution? That's exactly what many designers were doing!
The idea was to accentuate the dancer's movement, emphasizing those strong lines with a streamlined, streamlined silhouette. This often meant cutting the traditional bell-shaped tutu slightly higher at the waist, maybe using slightly fewer layers, and then embellishing with those oh-so-chic 1960s elements - bold geometric shapes and contrasting colours.
It was a bold step, really - an embrace of the dynamic changes happening in the world. And, let’s be honest, those dancers with their powerful leaps and graceful turns in a sharp, clean tutu… Just fabulous! 💃
I can only imagine the excitement that pulsed through the air back then! That yearning for progress, those artistic aspirations, the electrifying buzz of creativity… Oh, how I wish I had been there, surrounded by that fabulous energy.
And guess what? The trend was truly global! Not only was "La Fille mal gardée" gracing London’s stage, it was being danced in New York, Paris, and even beyond! Those lucky folks were immersed in this delightful blend of tradition and trend - something so very captivating about that fusion of classic beauty and the embrace of the contemporary, don't you think?
But let’s get real - fashion is only half the story. A great performance needs the music, the choreography, and of course, the dancer's brilliance. In 1965, dancers like Rudolf Nureyev, a legend in his time (and even more so now!), were electrifying the stage. They brought passion and incredible artistry to these contemporary tutus, their movements radiating through the streamlined fabrics and powerful stances. Oh, to have been there to witness the magic firsthand!
Sadly, I had to make my way back to the 21st century. After all, who knows what adventures await! I mean, think about it. There are so many wonderful tutus to explore, from classical tulle tutus to the modern geometric designs, to those fun street and theater productions that are taking the world by storm. Each style embodies its own personality, reflecting different moments in time, each reflecting different emotions and stories.
But my dears, one thing remains the same, *the pink tutu reigns supreme! * It brings out the grace in every woman, and for that reason, it deserves to be embraced by everyone, everywhere!
Speaking of everyone, I can't leave you without reminding you that this #TutuTuesday isn't just about a love of the past. It's about embracing your own individuality, expressing yourself freely, and adding that dash of fairytale magic to your life. So go ahead, embrace your inner ballerina! Put on a pink tutu, dance in the street, and let your sparkle shine through. And if you do, remember to share your fabulous photos with me, my darlings.
See you next Tuesday! 🩰
