Hello, darlings! Emma here, your favourite tutu-loving time traveller! I’m back from a whirlwind trip to the groovy 1960s – oh, the music! Oh, the fashion! And oh, the tutus!
This week, I landed on 22nd August, 1967. It was a Wednesday – a bit off my usual Tuesday posting schedule, but who am I to argue with the space-time continuum? It was the summer of love, you see, and everyone was caught up in the flower power revolution.
Now, you might be thinking: "Emma, the '60s weren't exactly known for tutus!" And you'd be right… mostly. But believe me, there was a surprising amount of tulle and whimsy swirling around. It wasn't about the classical tutu like you'd find in Swan Lake, no, no, this was something new and fresh!
Fashion Forward:
You had to love the boldness and freedom of 60s fashion. Miniskirts, bold geometric prints, go-go boots – it was all so incredibly cool and carefree. Even ballet-inspired looks started to infiltrate the mainstream with dancers like Margot Fonteyn rocking knee-length tutus and daringly exposing skin! And oh, those hairstyles! Long, flowing, cascading waves were all the rage.
It's interesting how the dance world was reflecting the mood of the times, too. Ballet itself was beginning to break free from the classical mould. Choreographers like George Balanchine were experimenting with new and innovative styles, moving away from the traditional narratives of the old classics and incorporating the rhythms and energy of popular culture.
It’s these styles of ballet that inspired my 60s look. Imagine me twirling around, not in the full traditional tutu of a ballerina but in a beautiful, floor-length skirt crafted from yards and yards of sheer, delicate fabric, adorned with colourful, swirling motifs and a playful dash of glitter. A pink tutu? Absolutely! But not in the classic form! This was a tutu for the times – edgy, whimsical and full of personality, just like the spirit of the 1960s!
Musical Memories:
While I was there, I absolutely had to see a performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the Royal Opera House! Now, let’s just say this production had a slightly more bohemian twist than what we’d come to expect. Imagine Puck flitting around in psychedelic patterns!
The music for this show was simply incredible, with the most lovely string arrangements and the silliest, sweetest flute interludes. There was a real sense of wonder, you know, that transported me right into the magical forest. It was pure enchantment, darlings.
The 1960s were truly a time for experimentation, and it was absolutely delightful to see the way the world of dance and music was echoing those same desires for freedom and change.
A Taste of Home:
Speaking of magic, it's always so amazing to travel, but I always have my Derbyshire heart yearning for the rolling hills and the sweet taste of Bakewell tart. That classic treat would definitely never go out of style, no matter how trendy things get! And speaking of styles, while the '60s definitely have a vibe, it's important to stay true to your own personality!
Always Be You:
So, as we say goodbye to the '60s (for now!), remember to stay curious about fashion, always be willing to experiment and, most importantly, never stop being YOU! Because darling, at the end of the day, it's the spark inside that really makes the tutu shine.
Until next week, darlings, keep twirling and never let anyone dim your inner sparkle.
Love always, Emma xx
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