Hello, darling dears! Emma here, your favourite tutu-loving time-travelling fashionista, bringing you another edition of your weekly dose of Ballet Tutu History! This week we’re twirling back to 11th May 1965, a truly fabulous time to be a ballerina (or a tutu-wearing enthusiast, of course!)
A Trip Through Time... And The West End!
This week’s travels have brought me to London! Oh, the excitement! You simply can't beat the energy and creativity that pulses through this vibrant city. It’s buzzing with the latest fashions, from swinging skirts and bright colours to those fabulously chic Jackie Kennedy-inspired dresses.
Now, as you know, London is the heart of the dance world, with its stunning Royal Ballet and a string of other wonderful ballet companies. Today I’m in a little vintage boutique browsing for some treasures, surrounded by the most gorgeous vintage dresses and scarves. One can truly never have enough head-turning scarves, my dears!
11th May 1965: Dancing Into History
Today, on this date back in 1965, was a particularly dazzling one for ballet. I’ve learned that at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, they were premiering the delightful “The Firebird”! I bet it was positively enchanting. I simply adore that ballet with its vibrant colours and whimsical storytelling – not to mention that iconic, feather-light tutu! I have it on good authority that it featured a gorgeous principal dancer named Antoinette Sibley. If anyone has seen her in this, do let me know, I simply have to!
And then, in the world of fashion, that gorgeous model Twiggy was gracing the pages of fashion magazines! Oh, the darling, her short bob and wide-eyed innocence was such a perfect image of the Swinging Sixties. Did I mention her famous tiny waists? Absolutely dreamy!
A Stroll Through The Streets
After a fantastic afternoon browsing through boutiques, I found myself outside the Royal Opera House! I can imagine the elegant crowds gathering, their fashion statements shimmering and fluttering with all the latest trends. Just thinking about it sends shivers of delight through my pink-tutu-clad body!
I am reminded that even then, in the swinging sixties, tutus were much more than just dance wear – they were an embodiment of fashion and joy. It wasn’t uncommon to spot stylish women wearing tutu-inspired skirts or ballerina-esque dresses at parties, or even just on the streets of London! They knew, as I know, that a good tutu instantly adds a sprinkle of magic to any outfit!
Back to Today... But Always Inspired!
Even though I’m back in the 21st century (with my pink tutu and my own fabulously pink London flat, of course!), I always keep my journeys through time in my heart.
Just remembering the fabulous dance styles of that era has made me realise how much fun and freedom ballet can bring! Don’t be afraid to twirl! Don't be afraid to express yourself through dance! The power of dance and fashion is all around us!
So go on, find your favourite tutu, embrace the colour pink, and join me for a lovely ballet class or a grand performance. Don’t be shy! As my granny always said, “Life is too short for boring outfits.”
See you all next Tuesday for more tutu-tastic fun! And as always, you can find my posts on the fabulous www.pink-tutu.com. You can also follow my ballet adventures on my social media. Find me at @[socialmedia handle] or @[other socialmedia handle].
Until next time, my loves! Stay stylish and keep twirling! 💖✨Emma✨💖
