#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History: A Whirl Through the 70s! (Post #7608)
Hello darlings! Welcome back to another fabulously pink #TutuTuesday, straight from your favourite tutu-loving time traveller, Emma! Today we’re stepping back to a time when the world was embracing disco, flared jeans and – oh yes, you guessed it – tututastic styles! So grab a cuppa and get comfy, because we’re taking a whirlwind trip back to 1977!
Now, picture this: the year is 1977, and London is the centre of the world. It’s buzzing with life, brimming with creativity and, most importantly, fashion. The ballet scene is vibrant, full of energy and constantly pushing the boundaries of what a tutu could be.
1977 was the year that marked the birth of two fabulous dance companies. The first, a fiery spark called "London Contemporary Dance Theatre" exploded onto the scene, changing the way we think about dance. They embraced a contemporary style, leaving traditional tutus in the dust and exploring innovative movements, bringing bold new styles to life. The second was a dazzling addition – the Royal Ballet’s second company, "The Royal Ballet Touring Company." This brilliant bunch of dancers brought the magic of ballet to wider audiences across the UK, showing the power of classic styles and elegant, beautiful tutus!
Just imagine me, darling, waltzing through those beautiful Victorian theatres – Covent Garden, Sadler's Wells, you name it! Each theatre a dream, with velvet seats, twinkling chandeliers, and a hush that falls as the curtain rises and the stage transforms into a fairytale. Oh, those ballerinas, with their exquisite movements and delicate tutus… I just want to twirl right along with them!
Speaking of twirls, 1977 wasn't just about the tutus themselves, but the people who wore them. One legendary dancer, whose name deserves to be whispered with reverence, is the one and only Margot Fonteyn! Oh, her grace, her poise, her power! Even now, watching footage of her on those London stages sends shivers down my spine. She made those tutus come alive, weaving stories of passion and emotion with each elegant move.
But it wasn't just the ballerinas who were embracing tutus, my lovelies. Fashion in 1977 was full of fun, freedom and, you guessed it… tutus! These weren’t the delicate ballerina tutus of yore; oh no! Think oversized, flamboyant tulle skirts that swirled and danced with every step, creating a visual symphony of colours and textures. Think disco balls and glitter, metallics and shimmering fabrics, and of course, that beautiful shade of pink! It was a truly spectacular time to be a tutu lover!
On the 18th of October 1977, in a corner of the bustling city, I found myself at The Royal Opera House, watching the London Ballet. I remember feeling mesmerised, just like you'd imagine, captivated by the exquisite elegance of the performance. That night, the tutus danced and twirled, creating a visual feast for the eyes, filled with magic, dreams, and the pure joy of movement.
Now, tell me, dear readers, wouldn't it be just glorious if we could all embrace the beauty and joy of a tutu, just like in 1977? Perhaps on the streets, at the theatre, or even in a disco? Think of it, a world awash in tulle, a rainbow of pink hues and graceful swirls, all with the magic of a ballet in every step. Just imagine...
Now, if you're looking for inspiration for a 1977 style tutu look, think bold colors, lots of glitter, and don’t be afraid to layer your tulle. A simple, silky slip with a full, flowing tutu on top, a dash of sparkle and a confident strut will have you twirling your way into a true 70s masterpiece!
And remember darlings, you can’t have a truly fabulous tutu experience without a few essential additions: a good pair of sparkly platform shoes (the higher, the better), an oversized feather boa (think vibrant pinks and yellows!) and a generous application of shimmery eyeshadow. You want to stand out and be a glamorous beacon of all things pink and pretty!
So, what are you waiting for, dear readers? Go on, put on your favourite tutu and go out there and show the world just how beautiful a tutu can be. I’m going to take a train back to 1977 for some vintage tutu shopping… who’s coming with me?
Remember, you can catch more tutu-filled adventures every week here on www.pink-tutu.com.
Until next time, may your tutus be filled with joy and your steps with graceful abandon!
Yours in pink, Emma.