#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1972-05-09

Hello my darlings! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu-enthusiast, and it's time for another whirlwind adventure through ballet history! Today we're taking the time machine back to a gloriously glamorous era - May 9th, 1972.

Now, you might be thinking, "Emma, 1972? That's awfully far back, wasn't the tutu craze in full swing then?" Well, darling, let me tell you, the 1970s were a golden age for the tutu. Think big, bold, beautiful! It was the era of the legendary Margot Fonteyn, Rudolf Nureyev, and a whole cast of incredibly talented dancers, pushing the boundaries of performance and costume design.

Today, we're going to focus on the fashion of the era, with a particular focus on, yes, you guessed it, the tutu, of course!

This date wasn't just another Tuesday - it was a thriving Tuesday for ballet lovers everywhere. Imagine, dear reader, being able to catch the exquisite Anna Pavlova's legacy alive and well in performances of Swan Lake or The Sleeping Beauty. You could see the legend herself, Margot Fonteyn, mesmerise audiences with her elegance, or witness the charismatic Rudolf Nureyev dance up a storm, captivating hearts across the globe.

Just think - 1972 saw a young Baryshnikov starting to make waves, bringing an innovative and athletic style to ballet that would go on to redefine the art form!

Now, let's get into the real reason we're all here - the tutus! In 1972, you'd find a multitude of styles adorning the stages. The classic romantic tutu with its multiple layers of tulle was a firm favourite, giving dancers the billowing effect that epitomizes grace and fluidity. Think delicate tulle, pastel colours, and maybe even a touch of shimmery sequins!

Then there was the short tutu, ideal for displaying those breathtaking leaps and twirls, made popular by choreographers like George Balanchine. The 1970s saw experimentation with shorter, more streamlined tutus in exciting materials like Lycra (oh, that incredible stretch!) and neoprene, a daring addition that really pushed the boundaries of what a tutu could be.

These were also the days of bold, statement colour choices. Don't think shy pastels; it's time for vivid oranges, stunning greens, dramatic blues, and vibrant yellows to light up the stage! Remember, 1972 was a time for experimenting with style. It wasn't just about delicate tulle and floral motifs - it was about making a bold fashion statement.

Now, the tutu wasn't just for the stage back then. Oh no, darling! The tutu was en vogue, embraced by dancers and non-dancers alike! It's amazing to think how a ballet-inspired item could transform from stagewear to high street fashion. In 1972, women all across the world were experimenting with the "ballet" look. This involved flowing skirts, romantic blouses with puff sleeves, delicate ballerina flats, and, of course, a touch of tulle in their everyday attire.

It's important to remember that fashion today draws inspiration from historical trends. So what we consider vintage now could have been the hottest trend back then. The connection between runway trends and ballet history is as captivating as a performance by Margot Fonteyn herself!

As for me, well, my travel plans are jam-packed this week. A hop on the train to London is planned for a show featuring Giselle – how absolutely divine! Giselle is just one of those timeless pieces where the tutu, even though classic in style, shines with the emotional power of the narrative, you know? Afterwards, a little shopping spree around the vibrant streets of London – and of course, I can’t forget a quick stop at the most glamorous ballet store in the city. It's hard to be a time traveller with such a passion for fashion, you know?! But then again, what’s more exciting than a pink tutu and a thrilling adventure through time?

And as always, remember: Every day can be Tutu Tuesday, darling! Don't be shy, let your inner ballerina shine, and *dare to wear a pink tutu!

Until next time, my loves! Stay sparkling!

XOXO

Emma
www.pink-tutu.com