Hello darlings! Emma here, your pink-tutu-wearing time-traveling fashionista, back with another edition of #TutuTuesday. This week we're hopping on the time machine and heading back to a fabulously stylish era, 1966!
My goodness, you just wouldn't believe the whirlwind of fashion that awaits us! Today, we're going to chat about the ballet tutu! Can you believe how this simple piece of clothing has completely changed since the 18th century?! We’ve come a long way, lovelies!
1966 - a pivotal year for fashion and ballet!
Oh, 1966! This was a year of vibrant colours, swinging skirts, and a general mood of liberation in fashion. Remember how the Beatles invaded the charts with “Penny Lane”? It's no wonder! There was so much going on, so much newness and freshness.
Now, speaking of freshness, remember Rudolf Nureyev? My oh my, was he ever a handsome man. Such poise, such charisma! He took the stage in the early 60s, bringing an explosion of talent and masculine flair to the world of classical ballet. His artistry changed the way we see men dancing - and, dare I say, changed fashion!
And let's not forget Margot Fonteyn, my absolute favourite ballerina, the embodiment of classic grace. In 1966, her partnership with Rudolf on stage truly set the ballet world alight. These iconic performers embodied everything that made ballet glamorous!
I can almost hear the swooning sighs of the audience as their eyes follow every perfectly placed plie!
So, how were tutus looking in 1966?
This is where things get super interesting!
Imagine, the classic romantic tutu (like what they wear in Swan Lake, gorgeous!) and the classical tutu (more for ballerinas, my personal preference), still dominated the ballet world. They were like old-school beauties! The styles were tried-and-tested, a timeless elegance, flowing fabric with a big romantic sweep.
But, oh my darling, this was the time when ballet and fashion really started to kiss! In 1966, the “contemporary ballet” movement was taking the world by storm, shaking things up in the most magnificent way.
Now, for some fashion fun! I have to admit, contemporary ballet costumes, though daring, could be a tad out there, with more movement and less fuss. I just adored how this newfound freedom spilled over into dancewear fashion! Remember, in the sixties, designers like Mary Quant (such a trendsetter!), started introducing mini skirts and go-go boots - all that amazing freedom of movement! Imagine those styles translated into the elegant lines of a tutu! Oh, my! That's just divine!
Time to play fashion!
I've been trawling the vintage shops back in the 2020s, and I've unearthed some absolute treasures, my dears! Think swirling patterns in bold colours. Imagine a beautiful burgundy silk tutu paired with a black turtleneck (a must-have back then!). That would've looked phenomenal! Now that's how you bring those sixties vibes into today's world!
Or, a navy blue tutu with a silver bodice (because who doesn't love a touch of shimmer) - the absolute picture of refined glamour!
And remember, just because those sixties looks were out there doesn't mean they had to be too “out there”. How about a tutu made from lace? Such romanticism! Just imagine it twirling in the soft glow of stage lights... divine! Or a classic white tutu in the simplest lines with the addition of a few playful, bright colored ribbons... such effortless chic!
And remember darling, with some modern twists, the tutu is totally a style staple you can wear just about anywhere! Whether it's a vintage-themed ballet performance, a trendy tea party or just an afternoon of strolling in the park, a fabulous pink tutu (it's my signature colour, you know!) adds that extra oomph!
Looking for an adventure on this day in 1966?
If you’re feeling like channeling your inner ballerina, hop on a train to London, my dear! There's nothing quite like experiencing a night at the ballet. The Royal Opera House was thriving! Don't miss a performance at Covent Garden - it's pure magic! You can see how history came alive, and you could easily spot a famous face in the audience! I saw a few notable people at these shows. (Can you guess who? If you guess correctly I'll give you a peek into my time travel secrets in my next post!). It’s a good thing my fabulous time machine lets me change up my wardrobe for these special occasions!
Afterward, don't forget to head to one of those gorgeous London tea shops! They were practically bursting with glamour. Imagine how utterly divine those little pink teacups looked in 1966.
So, that's it for this week's trip through the archives of fashion! Let me know in the comments below if you've spotted any other incredible tutu looks from 1966! Until next time darlings, keep on twirling!
Emma, out!
