Hello my darlings!
It's Emma here, your favourite time-travelling ballerina, bringing you the latest installment in my ever-growing #TutuTuesday blog - a journey through the captivating world of tutus!
Today we’re travelling back to September 21st, 1965, to the magical city of Paris, the undisputed queen of fashion and dance! With the Seine flowing serenely beside me and the aroma of fresh croissants swirling in the air, I’m taking you back to the era when ballerinas pirouetted across the stages of the world in the iconic tutus we all adore.
Today’s trip isn't about any single momentous ballet production - it's about the spirit of this era. 1965 is about change - the world of dance is experiencing a glorious renaissance, embracing contemporary movements alongside the beloved classics.
And me? Oh, I'm in my element, clad in a perfectly pink, full-skirted tutu with just a touch of sequined sparkle! This outfit’s a tribute to the glorious tutus worn by legendary ballerinas of this era - those women, with their incredible grace and power, pushed the boundaries of ballet with breathtaking performances and utterly breathtaking tutus that left audiences breathless!
Imagine, my lovelies! In this world, ballet was the social event, just like going to the cinema or the theatre is today! The great and the good filled the grand opera houses, mesmerised by the magic unfolding before their eyes.
Speaking of magic, have you ever been to Paris? Paris! It is absolutely bewitching, my dear, a world of grand architecture and intoxicating elegance!
One thing that really strikes me here in the past, is the importance of attire for any Parisian. Fashion is EVERYTHING. The stylish ladies, even the everyday folk, sport exquisitely tailored suits with neat little hats. And when they go to the theatre? Goodness me, it's an orchestra of elegance! The men in their smart suits, the women in magnificent ballgowns!
Just a thought… wouldn’t it be amazing to introduce a dash of ballet flair into every woman’s wardrobe? You can always count on me, darlings, to sparkle the way to the most divine looks with tutus, glitter and glorious fashion!
So, back to 1965 - let’s explore some of the enchanting fashion we saw back in this time…
Fashion Spotlight
It was a period when designers pushed boundaries, showcasing the femininity and sensuality of the modern woman. You’ll notice that it’s a mix of romantic elegance with a bit of the '60s edgy flair! Think about those iconic, glamorous women like Audrey Hepburn, Jean Shrimpton and Brigitte Bardot. They embody the fashion mood of this decade – chic and graceful, with a playful undercurrent.
You’ll notice that tutus back in this time reflected this sense of style - think long, flowing tutus, and a bit of experimental detail such as ribbons and interesting layered fabrics. And when you go out to your next ballet performance – just picture this time period’s glamorous ballet scene – the excitement of seeing some of the most dazzling tutus! ( And perhaps the added joy of getting to wear your very own, beautifully pink, tutu too! wink wink! )
But wait, there’s more! Speaking of that amazing flair - a popular style was also about the iconic shift dress - think long and flowing and just as graceful as a dancer’s twirl.
The ’60s fashion is not just about elegant styles - it's about celebrating beauty, femininity and an exciting future!
Let’s take a peek at a ballet performance happening on this exact day, September 21st, 1965…
A Ballet to Remember
Tonight, the curtain rises at the Paris Opera, home to ballet excellence! This evening we're witnessing a timeless production of Swan Lake.
And I am so, so excited!
To see those swans taking flight across the stage… their movements as effortless as a feather on a breeze… I find it utterly enchanting! And let's not forget the ballerinas’ tutus! It’s pure elegance, a kaleidoscope of colours, from the soft white of the swan’s tutus to the vibrant reds and blacks of the evil sorcerer’s realm. The tutus were meticulously crafted to embody each character, just as the tutus you wear should perfectly match your own, unique personality! I’m so obsessed with the beauty that goes into crafting these costumes. I must confess that I once snuck behind the scenes of the Paris Opera… and when I saw those gorgeous, painstakingly crafted tutus... it was the best pinch me moment ever!
My lovelies, the experience of Swan Lake is enchanting, the very essence of pure dance. From the softest ballet movements to the grand leaps, every moment leaves a permanent imprint on the soul!
Back to the Present
It's amazing to be back in my own time, my dear friends! It seems every era finds magic in dance, in tutus, and in the pursuit of beauty!
Don't be afraid to experiment, be bold, and most importantly, enjoy yourselves! I can’t wait to explore the magic of #TutuTuesday with you next week!
Don't forget, we’re still working on that #PinkTutuChallenge – I'm desperate to see you all in your gorgeous pink tutus, my lovely ballerina admirers! Go forth and let your inner tutu girl shine! I am absolutely sure you’ll be absolutely gorgeous!
XOXO, Emma
P.S Please let me know which gorgeous vintage pink tutus are your absolute favourite! Until next week, my darling tutu-loving beauties…
