Hello, my darling dance enthusiasts! It’s Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, back again with another #TutuTuesday blog post, bursting at the seams with vintage fashion, captivating dance history, and of course, tutus galore! This week, I'm whisking you away to a magical era: the glorious 60s, specifically September 5th, 1967!
Grab your finest silk scarves and let’s twirl back in time together, shall we?
My latest adventure took me to the vibrant heart of New York City, a city where ballet was blooming like a ballerina’s first flower. As I stepped off the train, the air hummed with a palpable energy – a blend of urban buzz and cultural awakening.
On September 5th, 1967, the world of dance buzzed with the news of the Royal Ballet’s arrival in America, ready to grace the hallowed stage of the Metropolitan Opera House. Imagine my excitement - the chance to witness a show that would redefine classical ballet for American audiences! I managed to snag a ticket for their opening night performance, “Giselle,” a timeless classic of love and loss, choreographed by Sir Frederick Ashton.
This was no ordinary performance; it was a dazzling display of sheer brilliance. The delicate tulle tutus, billowing with each graceful leap, painted a breathtaking picture against the opulent backdrop. The iconic, tiered Romantic tutu, beloved by ballet dancers for generations, truly stole the show, embodying the pure grace of the dancers and the ethereal beauty of the ballet.
Oh, the romance! Giselle, a tale of a young woman scorned, who tragically succumbs to despair after being deceived by a suitor. The music was achingly beautiful and the choreography, so poignant and ethereal, perfectly capturing the story’s heartbreak. But even amidst the drama, the sheer artistry and athleticism of the dancers, adorned in those ethereal tutus, left me breathless.
However, this journey wasn't just about ballet. The 1960s were a period of radical fashion evolution – think bold colours, playful textures, and a rebellion against conformity! In the fashion department, there was an exhilarating burst of color and femininity! From whimsical floral patterns to sleek, tailored ensembles, everything was a bit bolder, a bit brighter, and just a tad more glamorous! Imagine strolling down the streets of New York, a whirlwind of flowing maxi skirts, colorful jumpsuits, and even those playful miniskirts, making their grand debut!
My own fashion inspiration came from a trip to Bergdorf Goodman, one of New York’s finest department stores. There I discovered an incredible array of vintage silk scarves and fabulous headbands - the perfect additions to my own ballet-inspired outfit. A pale pink satin blouse, teamed with a crisp, white skirt and, of course, my signature pink tutu, made for a look that wouldn’t look out of place in a 1960s magazine!
And to add a little extra extra to my look? I added a few playful flourishes, a feather boa, some sparkling jewels, and, of course, a bold pink lipstick! (Let’s be honest, even back in the 1960s, a little sparkle never hurt anyone! )
This time travel journey wasn't just about the fashions or the ballets, though. It was a beautiful exploration of the time, its cultural vibrancy, and its embrace of artistic freedom. I witnessed the world as it was then – a whirlwind of social change, brimming with optimism and an undeniable joie de vivre.
Of course, the question on everyone's mind is – what would I wear to this magical event? I have the perfect look: A beautiful silk floral print, perfectly paired with a pale pink satin blouse and my trusty pink tutu! The addition of a feather boa and some dazzling rhinestones would add just the right touch of glamour. And of course, a chic beret for an effortlessly stylish touch, all finished off with a pair of crisp, white ballet pumps for that extra bit of elegance!
Now, I know what you're thinking - you'd never wear a pink tutu! You say it's "too much", "too whimsical." But darling, think again. A pink tutu is more than just a garment, it’s a statement. It’s a declaration of individuality, of a love for art, a belief in boundless joy and, of course, an expression of love for dance!
Every time I wear my tutu, it transports me to a realm of fantasy and grace, allowing me to express my love for ballet and everything it represents – the elegance, the joy, and the sheer magic that comes from swirling, spinning, and dancing.
So my darlings, whether it's the elegant Romantic tutu of 1967 or the whimsical modern variations of today, remember: a tutu is more than just an item of clothing, it's a portal to creativity, self-expression, and the undeniable magic of ballet.
Keep those tutus twirling! And until next Tuesday, embrace the whimsical, celebrate the joy of dance, and never be afraid to unleash your inner ballerina.
With all the pinkest wishes,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S: Don't forget to share your own tutu adventures with me! Use #TutuTuesday and tag me @PinkTutuBlog on social media! Let's make the world a more tutu-fied place, one dance step at a time!
