Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back with another trip into the glorious history of ballet fashion! Iāve been skipping through time to get you the latest insights on the magical world of tutus, and this week we're dancing back to 19th May, 1970!
Can you believe it's been 53 years since this day? I was busy performing in a delightful little ballet adaptation of "Alice in Wonderland" down in Derbyshire. Remember how they just loved to mix things up with a good old English twist?
Speaking of Derbyshire, it's almost like stepping back in time there! Everythingās so quintessentially British, from the quaint villages to the rolling countryside.
It reminds me a lot of how ballet is still seen today ā so elegant and traditional. Even in the fast-paced world we live in now, ballet remains a beautiful reminder of a more refined era.
So, let's dive into the 19th of May, 1970, shall we?
This day saw a big deal in the ballet world, a true "wow!" moment that's still influencing dancers today. Imagine, for a moment, the energy and excitement that must have filled the air as the iconic "Swan Lake" graced the stage at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow! I had to travel back in time and witness the performance!
But even bigger than this was the debut of that ballet costume: the legendary Odette Tutu. Designed by the one and only Yuri Grigorovich, this stunning costume was the talk of the town. Imagine layers upon layers of white tulle, a whisper of pink at the edges, dancing so gracefully under the spotlights ā oh, how the audience must have gasped!
Grigorovichās Odette tutu broke the mould for its time! He brought in modernity with a bolder use of material and a much looser form, taking inspiration from the revolutionary techniques of Russian ballet legends like Anna Pavlova. Think dramatic and ethereal, with flowing movement that captivated audiences worldwide. I can tell you this was a moment in history that literally re-shaped the ballerina's look for years to come. I even found some beautiful contemporary ballet performers inspired by its style!
And you know me, I couldnāt resist getting my own āOdetteā inspired tutu made for a bit of āballet nostalgiaā while I was travelling back in time. Let's just say I totally stole the show at the post-ballet party in a deliciously blush pink tulle concoction that echoed those historical silhouettes ā pink tulle forever, donāt you agree? Pink just makes everything feel special and celebratory ā why not, right?
Back to my darling 19th of May 1970! This day marked a crucial moment in the history of the ballerina costume. With Grigorovichās Odette Tutu and Anna Pavlovaās influence, we see the ballet costume taking a daring turn! This wasn't just a piece of clothing; it was an explosion of elegance, artistry, and expression, captivating the hearts of both dancers and spectators alike!
I can't resist adding a bit about the fascinating world of Russian Ballet, just a few things about why its so influential and adored across the globe. Remember, my dears, the grand scale and theatricality of Russian Ballet productions set the standard for ballets across the globe. With the amazing skill of these amazing dancers (not to mention a flair for all things extra), they redefined beauty in motion! And donāt forget about the magnificent costumes that really bring the performance to life. My, oh my! I could never imagine not incorporating those elements into my own dress designs - Russian inspiration is always a must!
Speaking of fashion and the glorious world of tutu trends, it seems like everyone wants to tap into the beauty and charm of this wonderful piece of clothing. Let me tell you, Iām no stranger to that kind of desire! My favourite thing to do after travelling to a performance? Of course, it's hitting up a high street store in whatever beautiful country I find myself in! Shopping is a dancerās delight! Fashion? It's how you move with confidence and grace. I find that there are plenty of shops offering pretty tutus in many styles these days! Just yesterday I spotted a beautiful soft tulle in lavender, I had to get it, right?!
I have so many tutus ā every shade you could imagine, every cut and fabric - it's truly my fashion wonderland. You know, you can't go wrong with a pink tulle skirt, it's timeless! Every girl just looks like a delicate fairy in one of those, especially in my beautiful Derbyshire pink tutus!
Anyway, my sweet dears, this is what I love most about #TutuTuesday, bringing you stories from the fascinating world of ballet. Remember, itās never too late to wear a little bit of ballet magic. Put on a beautiful skirt (with a hint of pink, of course) and get your graceful self twirling ā just because you can! I mean, lifeās an exciting stage, so let's twirl our way into a beautiful and fashionable world, one sparkly tutu at a time.
Until next #TutuTuesday, darling! Happy Twirling! Love, Emma.
P.S. You can see all of my Tutu Tuesday blogs at www.pink-tutu.com ā and maybe check out my collection of designer tutus too? Who knows, perhaps there'll be an exclusive discount for my fabulous followers?
