Hiya darlings! Emma here, your favourite tutu-obsessed time-travelling fashionista, ready to take you on another delightful trip down ballet's memory lane. Today, we're waltzing our way back to the groovy year of 1967, a time when miniskirts ruled the streets and the world was starting to get its groove on. And, naturally, I'm here to share all the fashion-forward ballet happenings of the day.
Now, imagine a Derbyshire girl, me, stepping off the train in the heart of the ballet world (New York City, Paris, or London - it doesn't matter! Ballet is the universal language of fashion!) The air is electric with anticipation and a gentle breeze whispers of exciting things to come. What will today bring?
The Colourful Canvas of Ballet Fashion:
Let's rewind back to the world of tutus! 1967 wasn't about stiff, old-school tradition; it was all about pushing boundaries and injecting vibrant colour and texture into ballet. Picture it: graceful dancers flitting across the stage in an explosion of primary hues - fiery red, sky-blue, sunflower yellow - alongside striking, almost graphic, geometric patterns. Think geometric lines, swirling circles, maybe even a hint of op art thrown in for good measure! It was a feast for the eyes, darling, just like my beloved pink tutu!
Breaking the Mould:
But the 60s weren't all about colours; the silhouette was getting a refresh too. Classical tutus were still there, of course, but modern ballet saw a new wave of experimentation. Long, fluid lines were becoming popular, a touch of freedom for those incredible dancers.
Think stretchy materials like Lycra, the fabrics of choice for the modern era! Some of these new styles didn't always use the classic shape; we even started seeing more "contemporary" ballet where dancers didn't always have a tutu at all!
Beyond the Stage:
You know how much I adore ballet, but 1967 proved that fashion goes beyond the stage, darling! It was spilling onto the streets too. Imagine the excitement of strolling past a boutique window, showcasing chic minidresses with flowing lines, all inspired by ballet!
And, dare I say, a bit of tutu inspiration found its way into evening wear as well. Elegant ladies, like my Mum, would embrace a hint of "ballet chic" by adding a dash of tulle or a pleated, twirly skirt to their look! I even saw a pair of tights with little diamanté decorations around the knee! It was all so glamorous!
What Was On?
Now, what ballet performance could I possibly have gone to see on this particular day, May 30th, 1967?
I couldn't tell you for sure (those historical databases are such a chore to navigate!). However, it was a time for both new and established choreographers! If I had a little extra time, I would love to take in a performance of Maurice Béjart or Jerome Robbins' work. Perhaps I caught the Bolshoi Ballet in a gala performance with legendary ballerinas like Maya Plisetskaya or Galina Ulanova. I would have even loved a show by the Royal Ballet, seeing Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev dancing together - it must have been sensational!
My Time Travel Tips for You!
Even if you're not jet-setting across time (sadly, my time travel method is a bit too pricey!), you can still channel those groovy 1967 vibes in your own everyday style. Here are my Tutu Tips for embracing a bit of vintage ballet fashion:
- Add a pop of colour to your outfit: A vibrant scarf, a pair of brightly coloured tights, or a bold patterned top will do wonders!
- Embrace the pleated skirt: Whether it's a knee-length or a mini skirt, let those folds create some charming movement!
- Accessorize with tulle: A simple tulle scarf tied around the neck or a headband embellished with tulle ribbons can add that ballet touch to any ensemble.
- Get those legs dancing: I might be a tutu-loving ballerina but even I recognise the power of a simple pair of leggings or dance pants to make an outfit just that little bit more special.
Remember darlings, ballet and fashion have a love affair that spans decades, so embrace every bit of twirling joy, every touch of vintage charm, and every ounce of creative spirit! Until next time, keep those toes tappin' and those tutus twirling!
Much love,
Emma
Your tutu-loving, time-travelling fashionista!
