Hello my dearest tutu-loving friends! Emma here, your time-traveling ballerina extraordinaire, back from another adventure in the exciting world of dance and fashion. Today we’re stepping back to a rather iconic year, 1971, a time of cultural change, exciting new styles, and, you guessed it – a booming love for the tutu!
Today's date is March 30th, which is the perfect excuse to explore what fashionistas were wearing on the streets and what magical ballet performances graced the stages around the world. Buckle up, dear readers, because we’re going on a trip down memory lane, and this one is definitely pink with possibilities!
Now, as a ballerina at heart (and a huge lover of pink tutus), I have to tell you, the early seventies were an era that loved the tutu! It was no longer confined to the realm of ballet – it was practically everywhere! From street fashion to high-society events, the tutu made its presence known in ways that were both glamorous and daring. Imagine: mini-skirts, high boots, and a perfectly pouffy tulle skirt for a touch of ballerina chic! It was all the rage.
My trip this time led me to Paris, where the Grand Prix de l'Opéra de Paris was taking place, a celebration of all things dance! Can you imagine the magic of witnessing a performance at the Opera House in Paris? I practically lived on black coffee and croissants during my time there. The feeling was electric! There’s something so special about the energy of a packed theatre, with everyone captivated by the graceful moves of the dancers – not to mention the absolutely gorgeous costumes, featuring tutus, of course! I wouldn't be surprised if these magnificent creations inspired the iconic street fashion trends of the time!
My favourite shop, “L'Etoille,” had a selection of the most delightful tutus in a rainbow of colours. And of course, a glorious display of the most exquisite shades of pink, perfect for any ballet-inspired outfit! This was definitely my era, darling! Who doesn't want a little tutu magic in their lives, eh?
While Parisian tutus are stunningly stylish, I couldn't resist travelling back to London, where the Royal Ballet was performing Giselle, an absolute classic. Just imagine those soft and billowing white tutus dancing to Tchaikovsky’s hauntingly beautiful music – simply captivating! There’s just something magical about the blend of ballet and a well-placed tutu that takes your breath away. I confess, a tiny tear escaped during the Dying Swan scene - oh, how beautiful!
The streets of London buzzed with a vibrant, eclectic style – the kind that makes my sartorial heart sing! While the swinging sixties had certainly inspired the fashions of the time, the seventies introduced a new wave of creativity and personal expression. That includes a healthy dose of the beautiful tutu! I saw a lot of the mod look, complete with vibrant prints, bell bottoms, and the ever-popular short-sleeved dresses. But sprinkled in amongst all the amazing fashion, were these bursts of pure tutu-liciousness. Even though they weren't on every single person, it's enough to show that the tutu had truly transcended the stage and stepped into the wider world!
After indulging in some incredible shopping sprees in both Paris and London (finding a perfect pink tulle mini-skirt that I plan to wear next week to a delightful luncheon), I thought, "What better way to honour this historical day than to share a bit of my knowledge of the tutu!" That’s how #TutuTuesday was born.
You can join me each week for a brand-new #TutuTuesday blog, where I’ll delve into the history of the tutu, share fashion inspiration, and celebrate this elegant and inspiring dance garment!
Remember, my dears, that the tutu is more than just a dance garment, it's a symbol of expression, creativity, and confidence. So, when you’re ready for a bit of whimsical fun and fabulousness in your life, throw on a tutu and let your inner ballerina shine! It's all about embracing that feeling of freedom and elegance, and never being afraid to let your personality shine through.
Until next Tuesday,
Emma, your time-traveling tutu enthusiast. 💖🩰
