#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1972-09-26

Hiya darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu! It's Tuesday and you know what that means, it's time to talk tutus! Today we’re hopping into the time machine and taking a trip back to 1972, a fab year for fashion and a pivotal moment for the ballet tutu.

As always, my darling tutu and I are decked out in a beautiful shade of pink, inspired by the iconic flamingo! We just got back from a brilliant ballet show at the Royal Opera House - oh, I do love the drama and grace of a ballet performance, the stunning costumes, the dazzling sets, and the amazing music. Today, we’re going to explore how ballet tutus were transforming during the early 70s!

Oh, I almost forgot, you may be wondering what's happening in the world today, 1972-09-26. Well, the big news is, the UK just had the hottest summer ever, can you believe it? That's the kind of heat that inspires picnics in the park, sunbathing sessions, and of course, my favourite – colourful summer frocks! But even in the heat of summer, there’s nothing quite like the joy of a ballerina’s outfit.

Now, back to tutus. I always tell my friends, it's important to know your history - particularly when it comes to our dearest tutus. We must pay tribute to the amazing women and designers who came before us and changed the look of ballet dancewear forever. The ballet tutu was on the cusp of a revolutionary shift! It wasn't just about showing off pretty legs anymore – although, darling, let's be honest, we all adore a pair of good-looking legs, wouldn't you agree? No, in the 1970s, the tutu was becoming a dynamic force, reflecting new ballet movements, and changing the way we looked at dancers!

Remember how in the Victorian era, ballerinas waltzed in flowing, dreamy skirts made of layers and layers of tulle? It was almost like they were dancing on a cloud! Well, in the 1970s, there was a move back towards the romantic, romanticism mixed with contemporary designs, think floaty chiffons and beautiful designs. And the colours - oh, the colours! We’re not just talking pink and white, darlings! They’re mixing in jewel tones, ochre, soft greens and all sorts of enchanting hues!

Imagine the joy! This means tutus were no longer confined to these long, flowing, almost 'cloud' skirts. Instead, imagine this, beautiful, delicate short, whimsical tutus that still allowed ballerinas to express all their movement and grace! I even saw one ballet company experimenting with a short tutu made with the most exquisite floral patterns. Oh my goodness, I nearly fainted from excitement. It was truly enchanting, almost like a fairytale!

Now, here's the part where it all gets really exciting. In the 1970s, designers were borrowing from the world of ballet and bringing the tutu’s romantic elegance into the everyday! You'd see models strutting down the runway in short tutus over chic pants, or as evening wear, perfectly paired with a flowing satin top. Even everyday fashion started to adopt the ethereal charm of a ballet skirt, using fabric, frills and flowing layers! It's no wonder I felt so at home on the platform during our ballet performances in a beautiful, pink tutu. It felt as if I was joining in the latest fashion trend, only with more twirls and leaps, darling, because we're talking ballet here, after all!

And let’s not forget about the fabulous fashion icons of the time! Stars like Jane Birkin, a true trendsetter, she looked effortlessly chic in her soft, romantic ensembles, she definitely captured that free spirit and effortless elegance, she was the girl who could pull off even the most unconventional of trends.

Now, let me tell you something - picking the perfect tutu is just like finding the perfect dress or a delightful outfit that complements your style! The right tutu empowers you! It gives you the confidence to express yourself. It lets your true personality shine! You might be drawn to a flowing, ethereal tutu, a sassy, dramatic short one, or one with dazzling detail! I'm quite partial to a voluminous pink tutu with just the right amount of fluff. I love how it gives me the 'wow' factor when I dance, with a touch of ethereal elegance, a must have for my darling Pink Tutu blog! It makes me feel confident and utterly radiant!

But why are tutus so popular, even outside the world of ballet? It’s quite simple, darling. The tutu is a symbol of joy and freedom. Imagine twirling, leaping and dancing to your heart’s content! This symbol is particularly poignant, coming at a time when so much is changing in society, with women stepping into a more independent era and pursuing their passions. This is reflected beautifully in the ballet world with women like the American Ballet Theatre’s Margot Fonteyn - her iconic, groundbreaking movements captured the hearts of thousands of dance lovers, inspiring and empowering others with her artistry. And that’s why I believe tutus should be celebrated in any form, anywhere. And who knows? Maybe you can create your own magical pink tutu, ready to twirl and twirl some more! Just remember, darling, don’t be afraid to add your unique flair and personality to any tutu. That’s the true magic of fashion, isn't it? It’s all about finding something that truly reflects who you are!

This is why my mission in life is to spread the magic of tutus. Whether it's by inspiring everyone to wear pink, to try a pirouette or just simply admire the artistry and skill of the world of dance, we can all share the love of tutus. It’s a way of living a more beautiful and expressive life, and who doesn’t want that?

Next week I'm planning to do some exploring in 1982 - imagine what beautiful tutus were trending back then. And while I’m thinking about it, maybe I’ll take a spin through Paris, one of my favourite cities. Who knows? I might even pick up a few amazing tutus or ballet clothes while I’m at it. After all, a fashionable girl has to shop! Until next Tuesday, remember, let's spread the pink tutu magic!

Emma xoxo