TutuTuesday #7043: 1966 - The Year the Tutu Took Flight!
Hello my darling tutu lovers! Emma here, ready to whisk you away on a trip back in time with another fabulous TutuTuesday. Today we're taking a whirl right back to the groovy 1960s - a time when mini skirts were the hottest trend, peace signs were in fashion, and ahem the tutu was just beginning to take centre stage.
I know, I know. You might be thinking tutus were always around, darling! Well, it's true, they have a history dating right back to the Romantic Era in the 1800s. But, back in 1966, something magical happened. The tutu wasn't just for ballerinas anymore! Think sleek, sophisticated ballet styles hitting the streets, captivating the fashion world, and sparking a new kind of ballet love.
Oh, the excitement! This wasn't just about pretty tulle and ribbons - this was about empowerment! Think sleek, chic outfits inspired by dancers' elegant movements - think fashion designers, photographers, and stylists inspired by the grace and beauty of the ballet. This was the start of the tutu's grand entrance into pop culture, my loves.
Now, let's talk 1966. I just hopped off the Orient Express in Paris, darling. And let me tell you, Paris was buzzing this year with exciting events! It's always fabulous, but in 1966, the fashion world went bonkers! The must-have accessory was, of course, the ballerina flat. And did you know, this little gem, so practical and chic, had an important role in ballet too? It was a dancer's choice in class for the warmth and support it gave, and I do adore a chic flat myself!
But what really captured my attention this December 20th was the most fabulous premiere of "The Sleeping Beauty". And I am talking epic tutus, darlings! Imagine exquisite fabric cascading across the stage, shimmering like spun sugar! Imagine colours so vibrant they danced right into your very soul. Oh, darling, the costumes were utterly divine, truly breathtaking! I felt like I was stepping right into the story itself! And to be perfectly honest, I got a little teary at the final scene. (Yes, I have a heart, beneath all this pink!).
Now, you know how much I love shopping! This date marked a milestone: the launch of those coveted little pink satin ballerina shoes you've been dying to get your hands on! They flew off the shelves. I even snagged a pair myself! They are the epitome of femininity, aren't they? And yes, darling, they can go with practically anything, from a summer sundress to a sharp little suit!
Oh, speaking of summer...I spent most of December shopping for next season's must-have...pink tulle, of course. You wouldn't believe what I found: a divine vintage lace shop, tucked away on a quaint cobbled street. I filled my arms with vintage bobbins, lace trimming, and exquisite ribbons, oh the joy! It's hard to choose what I will do with them! It was a moment of pure tutu magic!
And you canât forget the iconic âThe Beatlesâ â everyone was listening to them and their music had the most brilliant beat for a twirl or a waltz, wouldnât you agree? Oh, I just wish you could see my fabulous pink sequined T-shirt, so in style!
I could go on for hours about the amazing ballet fashions and music of 1966, but my sweet train back to London leaves in just a few minutes! Darling, if youâre a ballet lover just like me, do yourself a favor and treat yourself to The Sleeping Beauty! Youâll feel as if you are stepping into another world of pure fairytale elegance and bliss.
Catch you all next week with more #TutuTuesday fashion history!
Until then, remember:
"There's no time for frou frou and fuss when it comes to a good time, dear! "
xoxo Emma, your Pink Tutu Fashion Guide.
I hope you've enjoyed this whirlwind trip back to 1966, dear! If you loved this trip down memory lane and are hungry for more, be sure to follow my TutuTuesday blog on www.pink-tutu.com! I canât wait to share more magical moments and fabulous fashion from balletâs colourful past! Donât forget to join the conversation by dropping me a comment below! What did you love most about ballet in the 1960s? Letâs get chatting, darling!