Hello darling, Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu-clad time traveller! 💅 It's a glorious #TutuTuesday and I've just zipped back from February 27th, 1968 - a fabulous time to be twirling in a tutu, let me tell you!
I’ve had a truly sensational time – can you imagine what 1968 was like?!
Right, let’s get down to the serious business of tutu-talk. In 1968, the tutu was still ruling the ballet world, but it was going through a rather chic and revolutionary makeover. Remember that famous scene in The Turning Point? (Spoiler alert - the final performance is a mind-blowing contemporary number, showcasing how the tutu could be fluid and contemporary in the 70s!)
But, 1968! It’s the dawn of a new age! The classic tutu – that puffy, multi-layered, tulle-dreamy masterpiece – was still centre-stage. And what were ballerinas dancing to? You bet your pointe shoes – Swan Lake and Giselle, absolute tutu classics, were topping the bill! 🦢✨
In 1968, the tutu was undergoing a glamorous metamorphosis – and ballet audiences loved it! Forget those rigid, straight-laced costumes, this was a time for expressive lines, softer fabrics, and a whole lot of creative freedom. The new, shorter, ‘Romantic’ tutu became a a symbol of change and the dawn of a new era, both graceful and stunning. Imagine that! Shorter, softer, even more exciting. That was the tutu of 1968. 💃
It wasn't just ballet companies embracing these new trends. The tutu's fashion-forward appeal had even caught the eye of a certain iconic fashion house – that one with the red ‘double-C’ logo Think elegant shapes, striking black, and those revolutionary little black dresses – the ones that have taken fashion by storm. I could tell you a story about meeting that extraordinary French fashion designer (can you guess who I'm talking about?), but we'll save that for another #TutuTuesday. 🤫
The spirit of 1968 was all about self-expression and pushing boundaries - just like my tutu does! This era wasn’t afraid to explore new possibilities in the arts – and ballet was right there, ready to embrace the change.
I’d say my time travel jaunts have been rather eye-opening. Did you know there were ballet companies travelling all over the globe in 1968? That’s how I got my chance to waltz through some of the most remarkable cities – and I was always on the lookout for the most gorgeous and unique tutus!
Now, don't get me wrong, darling – this new 'Romantic' tutu didn’t mean the traditional ballet tutu was about to pack its bags and take a vacation. No, the classic tutu – those clouds of tulle that were the quintessential sign of ballet grace - still had its spotlight. It still evoked magic on the stage – just think of how it soared in Swan Lake, a pure and delicate masterpiece.
Of course, on February 27th 1968, while tutus were getting a makeover, fashion and beauty trends were getting a makeover too! It was the height of ’Swinging Sixties' glamour, the rise of Twiggy - with her pixie cut and miniskirts! It was an exciting time to be a woman – a new-found sense of liberation. What were ladies doing to add an extra layer of glamour? A bold red lip! I remember the shops were just teeming with new makeup. Lipstick, mascara, even eyeliner – I loved them all! But there’s one beauty secret that still gets my heart fluttering today - that incredible pale pink shade that perfectly matched my beloved pink tutu, naturally!
Speaking of shops – don’t even get me started on the fashion trends I saw! The fashion scene was positively bursting with vibrant colors and textures - mini-skirts were everything! It was almost impossible to step into a boutique without encountering a vibrant kaleidoscope of textures. My personal favourite: polka-dot patterns! 💃
Did I tell you that I adore the railway? Well, you can imagine how happy I was in 1968 – it was a time when people simply adored the train! Not only did it whisk me through some amazing countryside scenery – remember the Derbyshire countryside – but the elegance of a vintage train ride was like a scene straight out of a fairytale! As for travelling in style? The carriages were incredibly luxurious – the plush velvet seats and the stylish compartments. Ah!
My favourite part of travelling back to 1968? No other than witnessing the captivating spectacle that was the Royal Ballet - one of the most respected dance companies in the world! My, how time flies when you’re immersed in such elegance and beauty! 🩰
Remember, it's not just about what was trending; it’s the timeless spirit of elegance, self-expression, and that dash of fun – something that’s still so relevant today! Now tell me, what is your favourite style of tutu? We must be bold, daring, and express ourselves, and if a bright, fluffy, pink tutu is the answer - that’s just fine!
But I do say, my darling - time travel takes a lot of energy and creativity, and this fashionable tutu-lover has just a little hint of a problem! You know how much I adore seeing my favourite shows, popping into the shops for the latest must-have accessories, and trying out new restaurants – but it all requires quite a bit of cash! But no need to fret! Every time I zip through the history of tutus and visit amazing ballet performances – the Royal Opera House – the New York City Ballet – those beautiful shows raise a good deal of funds! So if you need me - give a big TutuTwirl and you will find me in the audience, always ready to support these extraordinary artists who, like me, have a little passion for the magnificent history of the tutu!
See you all next week on www.pink-tutu.com for another fantastic edition of #TutuTuesday! Keep twirling! 🩰
With love, Emma x
