Oh darling! It's Tutu Tuesday again, and this week, I've journeyed all the way back to 7th March 1978, just in time for the grand opening of the new season at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden! You can imagine my excitement – it's practically the centre of the ballet world, and I've heard they've got some fabulous new productions planned. Now, this era is practically bursting with colour and excitement. Remember, the disco era is in full swing, so prepare yourself for some seriously dazzling tutus.
Step into the World of Fashion:
First stop, darling, a trip to Liberty’s, just a stone's throw from the Opera House. I've got to get a new tutu, obviously! I mean, it's only polite to match the dazzling glamour of this era. There are so many amazing textures, so much velvet, and those amazing swirls of colour that everyone seems to be rocking! I'm tempted by a raspberry pink tulle masterpiece with shimmering sequins, but I think a classic bright pink number with a puffball skirt will be the perfect complement to the "Cinderella" I'm going to see this evening.
Now, I just need the perfect outfit to wear underneath! A flowing, floral print maxi dress? Or maybe a pair of tight-fitting disco trousers and a chic black top? There are no fashion rules here! Let's go for an effortless but statement-making look that embodies the free spirit of the time. A big statement earring and a sleek, vintage clutch finish the ensemble. Remember, the most important part of this era is to express yourself!
And let's not forget about shoes:
Now, you could rock a classic pair of sparkly heels or embrace the seventies disco trend with a pair of high-top platform trainers. The most important thing is that you feel confident and radiant. But one thing I have to warn you about: platform heels can be incredibly high in the seventies. I am practically doing the "Dying Swan" every time I try them!
A Time for Classics & Innovation:
Tonight's ballet performance? "Cinderella" starring Margot Fonteyn! Can you believe it? To have the opportunity to see such a legendary dancer is a once in a lifetime experience. The Royal Ballet is also showcasing a modern piece by Kenneth MacMillan. The blend of classical and innovative choreography perfectly embodies this era, where the past and the future seem to coexist.
Oh darling, I can feel the magic in the air! The atmosphere in the theatre is electric. The music, the lights, the sense of anticipation, it’s just pure excitement! I adore seeing how the different stories in the ballet are brought to life, the emotions are just tangible. It's all so magical, even more so in these incredible swirling, sequined tutus.
The Story of the Tutu:
While we’re enjoying the performances, darling, let's have a quick chat about the evolution of tutus, a subject very close to my heart, of course!
- Did you know that the first ballerina to wear a tutu was Marie Taglioni? Back in 1832, she took the world by storm in the ballet "La Sylphide." Can you imagine that, the very first tutu in all its glory?
- Throughout the nineteenth century, tutus grew progressively shorter and fluffier, creating a truly dramatic look. It wasn’t until the mid-twentieth century, during the mid-century period, that they really reached their full glory and become an icon of the art form.
These days, tutus can be pretty much anything from long, graceful "Romantics" to bright, colorful, contemporary pieces . But whatever style they take, the tutu has retained its place as the epitome of graceful femininity.
Sharing the Love:
Oh darling, one of the reasons I travel back in time for #TutuTuesday is to witness how tutus have evolved throughout the decades. From the classical grace of Marie Taglioni to the bold expressions of modern ballerinas, the tutu always inspires a sense of joy, creativity and magic. And just a tiny whisper, I have a grand dream – to see everyone wearing pink tutus!
Oh, I have just realised that after seeing Cinderella tonight, I will travel all the way to Paris tomorrow, because I need to visit a particular designer I have seen in an old book. They will be showcasing the most divine couture creations at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs – just imagine!
I must go now, I have an appointment at my favourite pink boutique! Let’s hope they’ve got some delicious, ruffled tulle pieces in stock. I'll leave you now, but make sure to visit my website, www.pink-tutu.com for more amazing tutu facts and fashion tips. Until next Tuesday, darling!
