Tutu Tuesday #7562: 30th November 1976 - A Trip Back to the 70s
Hello, darling darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, where we celebrate all things tutu, all year round. And for those of you new here, I'm Emma, your friendly neighbourhood tutu enthusiast, ready to take you on a whirl through ballet history!
This Tuesday, my time machine brought me to the 30th of November, 1976 - just in time to catch the Royal Ballet's "Giselle" performance at the Royal Opera House in London. Can you believe it, dears? The Royal Ballet - just a stone's throw from my favourite London boutique, Harvey Nichols, with its fabulous collection of chic 70s attire.
Ah, the 70s! Think platform shoes, bell bottoms, and vibrant prints galore. The fashion scene was practically exploding with colour and personality, and believe me, ballet tutus were definitely riding the wave of that energy.
And speaking of colour, don't you just adore this darling pink outfit I found tucked away in a vintage store? Just divine for today's #TutuTuesday post, isn't it?
Today, we're delving into a world where tutus were a little bit… more practical? Now, hear me out, before you faint with shock! This is 1976, a decade where "utility" was still a big factor in dressmaking. So, tutus had become lighter, more durable, with fewer layers and lighter fabric for effortless movement.
Don't worry, dear ones, this doesn't mean a loss of that signature ballet magic! It's more about embracing versatility. This era saw tutus evolve to better suit the specific demands of each ballet piece. We had delicate tutus for the airy grace of "Giselle" or the romantic "Sleeping Beauty," while shorter, firmer versions were favoured for the demanding choreography of "Swan Lake" and "The Nutcracker."
Now, a good tutu needs a fabulous look, right? And what’s more fashionable than 70s make-up? Forget those pale-faced Victorian ballerinas - these 70s girls were embracing the strong, natural beauty movement! Bold lipsticks, eye-catching eye shadow, and lots of eyeliner - it’s a real fashion statement, even under those theatre lights!
Speaking of theatres, that "Giselle" performance tonight promises to be divine. It’s the one and only Margot Fonteyn taking centre stage, and for those of you who haven't had the pleasure of witnessing this ballerina's magic, you're in for a treat! This lady's grace and expression are truly unforgettable - just seeing her dance is a privilege.
While I’m savouring all things ballet, the vibrant London scene isn’t going unnoticed. It's practically buzzing with exciting artistic developments. Think contemporary music and new forms of dance emerging all around the city. And who could resist a shopping spree at the Carnaby Street boutiques or a delicious supper in the bohemian atmosphere of Soho?
Honestly, dears, it's a perfect combination of high art and hip culture, just the way I like it! And what’s better than sipping on a warm cup of tea at Harrods after a long day of ballet and fashion exploration? Bliss!
I'll be keeping you all updated on my fashion and tutu discoveries through the week! But for now, do stay tuned for next Tuesday, where I'll be bringing you back another unforgettable snippet of tutu history from my time travels.
Until then, darling dears, may all your pirouettes be flawless and your tulle forever chic! And don’t forget to check back in every Tuesday for your weekly dose of tutu inspiration!
Oh, and one more thing... what's better than a tutu on a Tuesday? Why, a PINK tutu, of course!
Keep spreading the love for tutus! Love, Emma
P.S. Follow my adventures on Twitter and Instagram - #EmmaTutuTimeTraveller
P.P.S. Looking for the perfect pink tutu to add to your wardrobe? Head over to our website and explore our fantastic range of tutus. You're sure to find your perfect match!