Hey there, darlings! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu-wearing time traveller, back for another dose of tutu history! It's Tuesday, which means it's time for our weekly trip down memory lane to explore the glorious evolution of the tutu!
This week, we're taking a magical journey to December 14th, 1965, a date that brought us iconic moments in music, fashion and, of course, ballet! The world was swinging with a vibrant energy that I couldn't wait to soak up!
It was a brisk December morning, and my arrival in London was accompanied by a delicious whiff of roasted chestnuts from street vendors. As I hopped off the train, I spotted the iconic red double-decker buses, and the excitement for this adventure bubbled up inside me. My pink tutu practically danced with anticipation as I headed towards the Royal Opera House.
Today's journey was all about catching a glimpse of the dazzling Margot Fonteyn, who was gracing the stage with her ethereal presence in a performance of Giselle. I practically vibrated with excitement! Now, if you're thinking, "Emma, that's just a little bit cliché," then you're not wrong, darlings! But let's face it, there's a reason Fonteyn is hailed as a legend!
Seeing her perform was nothing short of mesmerising! And the tutu? Oh my, the tutu! The sheer delicacy of her tulle skirt and its captivating volume was just magical! It truly looked like something straight out of a fairytale.
Of course, I couldn't resist making a trip to the local vintage clothing shop and indulging in a spot of tutu-inspired shopping! While 1965 was all about mini-skirts, bold patterns, and mod-chic looks, the influence of the tutu on fashion was still prevalent. The swirling, voluminous designs were being channeled into skirts, dresses, and even accessories, with the ethereal and feminine element becoming a key style statement. I snagged a delightful feather boa to add some "ballerina magic" to my own look, which was a perfect fit for my bubblegum pink tutu, of course.
As I sashayed through the bustling streets, I couldn't help but feel inspired by the spirit of the time. The Beatles' "Help!" was still dominating the charts, while "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and "Yesterday" echoed from every shop window. There was a joyous, rebellious energy in the air, and it reminded me so much of how tutus can be a symbol of joy, expression, and creativity.
Of course, the day wouldn't be complete without a visit to a ballet class. Luckily, I found a charming studio with a group of girls my age learning all the intricate steps. As I joined in, I felt the joy of dancing, the exhilaration of movement, and the feeling of community that binds all ballet enthusiasts. It was a perfect end to a glorious day!
So, darlings, remember – every Tuesday we explore the rich and enchanting history of the tutu, and each time, we get closer to fulfilling my dream of a world where everyone wears pink tutus! And just like 1965, we should never stop celebrating our passions, our creativity, and our freedom to express ourselves!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to practice a pirouette while humming "Help!" I need to be ready for my next trip, a visit to 1990s New York where I hear tutus were all the rage! Until then, keep those tutus twirling!
Lots of love and twirls,
Emma xx
P.S. Don't forget to join me on our website at www.pink-tutu.com for more enchanting blog posts and, of course, your chance to share your own #TutuTuesday memories!
