Hello my lovely tutu-lovers! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things tulle and twirls! It's another glorious #TutuTuesday and I'm bursting with excitement to take you on another trip through time.
This week, we're whisking ourselves back to the fabulous 70s, a time when the world was embracing change and bold style, a perfect storm for the tutu to blossom! We're landing right on November 22nd, 1977, just imagine! The air is buzzing with the sounds of disco and the smell of that amazing perfume that everyone was wearing (it reminds me of strawberry and…I can’t quite place it, maybe something sparkly?)
But today, my dears, we’re focusing on fashion, specifically ballet and those magical garments - the tutu! And honestly, can we talk about the phenomenal evolution of the tutu over the last few decades? We’ve come a long way, from the Victorian Romantic tutu (think, delicate layers and barely-there volume) to the explosive tutus of the 20th century! It’s quite a story!
Speaking of story, it wouldn’t be right to jump into fashion without first checking out what the ballet world was up to back in ’77. Now, on this particular date in 1977, the world was celebrating one of the most incredible dancers ever - Margot Fonteyn. A British ballet icon, and truly a pioneer! She was born in Reigate, not too far from my little home town of Derby (that makes her my style icon!) Imagine being able to see her perform! It’s quite a legacy for a Derbyshire girl. You might remember her dancing in Swan Lake or Sleeping Beauty, truly a remarkable woman!
The year 1977 was bursting with creative ballet performances! It was also the year of a groundbreaking ballet premiere - Rudolf Nureyev's "The Nutcracker". The magic! The wonder! Just thinking about the tutus involved gives me shivers down my spine. It was, according to everyone, the most spectacularly elegant and elaborate staging ever.
As a ballerina with a real passion for the history of ballet (and especially its wonderful costume history), I just have to take a moment to think about those tutus worn on the stage. They’re like miniature dreamscapes – crafted with the most intricate detail and shimmering with colour. But you know what? I find myself constantly inspired by what happens off the stage. That’s what excites me. You know I’ve been trying to figure out how to wear a tutu all day! What to layer it over? What kind of shoes? Can you believe it’s possible? But what’s your favorite thing about tutus? I’d love to hear it! Let me know in the comments.
But back to the topic at hand, my loves, the fashion world in 1977 was a truly vibrant and exciting one. Designers were playing with bold colors, geometric patterns and some super funky silhouettes – just the kind of freedom a pink tutu could perfectly represent! I can just imagine those sparkly metallic tutus dancing their way into evening parties with their dramatic flare and dazzling light. Just imagining myself in a sequined pink tutu walking into a room – wouldn’t that be magical?!
Think about it - tutus back then became part of pop culture! Remember the glam-rock looks, and that amazing disco culture? Tutus were popping up everywhere!
My oh my! Isn’t that just glorious? Who wouldn’t want to dress like a rockstar ballerina? We definitely owe a huge thank you to the brilliant dancers and designers who had the foresight to take the tutu outside the world of ballet and showcase its versatility.
As you can see, even back in the late 70s, tutus were bursting onto the scene! And, my dear readers, just like back in 1977, there's nothing I love more than a bit of creative energy and expressing oneself through clothing. A pink tutu perfectly symbolizes freedom of expression, boldness, and just a hint of fabulousness – think playful twirling in a ballet class, a dashing ballet performance or a cheeky look for the shops!
Until next time, dear friends, twirl, dance and stay fabulous! And, remember, I have my eyes on the world, so be prepared to see me pop up in your town! I'm aiming to inspire the entire planet, one pink tutu at a time! Remember - everyone can wear a tutu, I truly believe that!
I can’t wait to share my next journey through tutu time with you all! Until then, twirl in style,
Lots of Love and Pink Tutu Hugs, Emma xx
