#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History: 27th November, 1973 - The Rise of the Romantic Tutu!
Hiya, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-obsessed time traveller, Emma, here, ready to whisk you back in time for another #TutuTuesday adventure! This week, we're diving into the glorious year of 1973, a time when the ballet world was buzzing with excitement, and you could hardly turn a corner in London, Paris or New York without spotting a graceful dancer in a sparkling, romantic tutu.
I mean, wouldn't you just die for the chance to see Swan Lake at the Royal Opera House that year?! Oh, the glitz! This year was all about extravagant tulle and romantic styles - just the kind of dance fashion I adore!
But first, before I start gushing about tutus (because honestly, could I ever stop?), I've gotta share about this super fab train journey I had to get here. You know me, I love a good train trip. Itâs so glamorous and utterly charming! I took the grand old Orient Express all the way to Paris - pure luxury! We were like royalty! Just me, sipping on vintage champagne in a compartment, with only the swish, swish of the train and the view of the countryside to keep me company. I even squeezed in a quick stop in Milan to browse some Italian boutiques (always gotta snag a few fabulous fabrics and accessories)!
Speaking of fabulous, did I tell you Iâm wearing my favourite blush-pink, feathered tutu? Oh, darling, you wouldnât believe how much the girls in London adore it! I felt so good as I wandered the streets - oh, the looks I got, the smiles I got, just pure bliss.
Now back to 1973 - what a year for tutus! This was the era of real romance. Forget the frilly and fussy looks, itâs all about flow, ethereal beauty, and a touch of pure fairy tale magic! Think swirling skirts that catch the light and reveal layers and layers of exquisite tulle. I'm talking soft pinks, delicate blues, dreamy creams - such beauty! And don't even get me started on the sparkles.
Let's rewind a little. In 1949, Margot Fonteyn (oh, what a legend!) famously wore a revolutionary âshort tutuâ during Sleeping Beauty, and the dance world was captivated. Suddenly, dancers were able to showcase their beautiful legs and show off their incredibly delicate steps. This short style became incredibly popular in the fifties and sixties.
But 1973 marked the glorious comeback of the longer, Romantic tutu. The styles are softer, less strict, and utterly enchanting. Think Giselle and La Bayadère â two beautiful ballets that perfectly reflect the romance and elegance of this era.
Just imagine: A flurry of pink and white tulle swirling across the stage as a graceful ballerina performs a pirouette that would make even the most seasoned ballet dancer weep! A perfect blend of light and shadow, creating a story that leaves you wanting more. It's no wonder tutus became so central to this era of dance history!
Remember my darlings, the ballet is always about expression. The perfect tutu? The one that empowers you, inspires you, and helps you tell your story! Whether it's a fiery red, a regal purple, or a sweet shade of pink like mine, let your inner ballerina shine bright!
Speaking of bright⌠itâs the perfect day for a trip to the theatre, wouldnât you say?
Later today, I'll be taking in a ballet matinĂŠe at Covent Garden â itâs a special performance of Giselle featuring a breathtaking tutu, of course! You bet I'm getting my outfit sorted for a show that I know will inspire my love for the art form all over again. Itâs all about being fashionable, fun, and fabulously feminist! I can't wait to share the experience with all of you!
Until then, I'm off to brush my hair, apply a touch of my favourite shimmery lip gloss, and put on my gorgeous pink tutu. Don't forget to keep those dance dreams alive, darlings, and spread a bit of pink tutu joy wherever you go! And don't forget to keep checking back here each Tuesday for another #TutuTuesday journey into ballet history!
Emma XO
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. I'd love to see your photos of you rocking your tutus! Share your amazing pics with me using #TutuTuesday! Let's get the world twirling! đđ