Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-clad time-travelling fashionista, Emma, back with another delve into the divine history of the tutu! 🩰
Today, I’m whisking you all the way back to August 28th, 1973, to the heart of Paris. The city of love, fashion, and, of course, ballet! Can you imagine stepping off the train, the scent of croissants and perfume wafting through the air, the sound of Parisian chatter mingling with the melodic strains of a waltz? Ah, simply divine!
You wouldn't be wrong to think this date was brimming with ballet history - and indeed, it was!
But to find it, we need to go beyond the grand opéra houses and dive into the buzzing, vibrant world of Parisian fashion. The 70s, darling, was an era of bold choices. Think geometric patterns, flares, and a whole lot of fringe. You see, fashion, like ballet, is all about telling stories, pushing boundaries, and expressing yourself. And in the world of fashion, the 70s was bursting with that very energy!
That's where the tutu comes in - but not just any tutu! We're talking the chic, daring, playful tutus of Parisian designers. This era was about experimentation and embracing a playful sense of style. Designers began incorporating tutu elements - the short, full skirts - into their ready-to-wear collections, bringing that air of fairytale whimsy right to the streets of Paris. Think Yves Saint Laurent and his whimsical Parisian girls. So romantic!
Just picture this: a lady in a beautiful Parisian café, sipping her coffee in a swirling printed dress with a wispy tulle skirt dancing around her ankles, like a ballerina on a casual afternoon! Absolutely adorable, don't you think?
1973 wasn’t only about couture. In the world of dance, a ballet company was brewing in a corner of this glorious year: The Ballet Theatre of Maryland was founded, which later evolved to be known as the Baltimore Ballet. I imagine the rehearsals for this new company filled with so much excitement! The dedication and hard work behind each new ballet company reminds me so much of how I always approach creating a new look with my pink tutus. 😉
Now, my lovelies, while we celebrate the Parisian flair, don't forget the tutu's magic has always spread across the globe!
Here in England, where my heart always lies, the 70s saw a huge ballet boom, too. Ballet companies like the Royal Ballet and the English National Ballet were absolutely flourishing, giving a new generation of dancers and audiences the chance to fall in love with this captivating art. I must say, nothing compares to a beautiful performance with elegant ballerinas wearing their magical tutus in soft, beautiful lighting.
1973 marked a significant moment in this grand history. The Ballet Theatre of London, under the charismatic direction of Marilyn Burr, saw the debut of its “Sleeping Beauty" performance at the prestigious Sadler's Wells theatre! Think fairy tales, magical creatures, and, of course, glorious tutus! Oh, how I would love to have witnessed it! But fear not, I shall use my trusty time machine for that!
Now, my darling tutus, I hope this Tuesday has inspired you to embrace the Parisian chic of the 70s and explore your own unique ballet style! Remember, there’s a perfect tutu out there waiting for each and every one of us to find it! Whether you’re waltzing around your living room, heading to the ballet, or simply indulging in your own stylish Parisian café moment, never underestimate the magic of a twirl and the boundless possibilities that a fabulous pink tutu can bring. 😉
Remember to keep your eye out for more fashion adventures here every Tuesday, on www.pink-tutu.com !
Yours in tutus and time travel,
Emma 💕
