Greetings, fellow tutu-lovers! It’s Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet where we explore the captivating world of tutus. Today we’re whisking ourselves back to June 10th, 1969! Now, while the world was getting ready for the moon landing a few weeks later, we’re going to be stepping onto a different kind of stage - a stage where tutus are the stars!
I love my job! As a travelling ballet fanatic, it’s my duty to bring you the latest and greatest in tutu history from across the decades. My journey this week takes me to…drum roll…London, darling! Oh, the iconic sights! Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament… and of course, the grand ballet houses, where tutus have always been center stage.
But let’s rewind a little bit! In 1969, the ballet world was in the midst of a glorious era. You’ve got names like Margot Fonteyn, Rudolf Nureyev, and Natalia Makarova lighting up stages, inspiring dancers all over the globe. Now, back in the day, June 10th was simply a Tuesday, a regular day at the ballet studio!
It’s the era of tutus, my dear friends! Picture it: studios filled with the sound of swirling skirts and pointe shoes tapping a joyous rhythm. Now, the tutus of 1969? A touch different to what you’ll find nowadays, darling! You’ll have your romantic, full tutus, with lots of tulle for those breathtaking swirls, of course. But, the line is getting sleeker and the silhouette is starting to emphasize a sense of modernity, a nod to the swinging 60s.
In 1969, the tutus of the stage were just as captivating as the dazzling dancers!
For my travel companions today, let’s peek behind the scenes. I’m not going to lie, 1969 wasn’t just about tutus, my dears. I also love a bit of shopping, don’t you? Fashion is a love language, and trust me, this was a prime time to be a style maven! The mini skirt is all the rage, Mary Quant's designs are taking the world by storm, and let's not forget the platform shoes and bold geometric prints. I can just picture myself twirling in a mini skirt and platform boots while a pink tutu billows around me. That's my style - classic elegance with a little twist!
But back to ballet, darling! On this very day in 1969, the Royal Ballet is performing The Sleeping Beauty at the Royal Opera House. Oh, the joy! This production is like a classic fairytale. Picture delicate fairies fluttering in their soft, white, tutus with sparkly details and the fierce Odile with a bold and dramatic black tutu, and those dramatic leg extensions? Simply divine!
As I soak in the beauty of the production, I find myself lost in a world of dreams and fantasy. The sheer beauty of the costumes and choreography truly captures the hearts of audiences, much like it does for me today. There’s magic in that shared experience - the gasp when the music starts, the flutter in your chest as the ballerina takes flight, and the pure joy at the end!
Of course, no #TutuTuesday is complete without a touch of fashion! My top tutu tips for a modern twist on a 1969 vibe:
1. Modern Elegance: Combine a classic tulle tutu with a modern statement blouse. Think silk, a bold print, or even a pop of colour.
2. Play with Colour: You don’t have to stick to white! Embrace your creativity! A navy blue or crimson tutu with a sleek white top creates a stunning look that's modern and sophisticated.
3. A Touch of Pink (Of course!): Every good look needs a bit of pink, darling. Embrace your femininity with a pink ribbon in your hair, a pink clutch, or even a pink shoe for a pop of colour that complements the pink-tutu-loving part of my soul.
4. Dare to Experiment: A sparkly belt, bold earrings or dramatic eyeshadow - add a bit of flair to your classic tutu!
5. Be Confident and Own Your Style! Whether you’re a ballet enthusiast, a fashion lover, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of a perfectly twirled tulle, let your love of tutus shine! Remember, you don't need to be a ballerina to wear a tutu, darling.
I believe everyone can embrace the joy and magic of wearing a tutu! You just need to find the right style that fits your personality and makes you feel radiant and confident!
So, dear friends, until next week, may your days be filled with twirling, sparkle, and a touch of pink. And remember, keep twirling your own way!
Much love from the Time Travelling Tutu Blogger,
Emma
