#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1978-04-04

Welcome back to my lovely little corner of the internet, darlings! It’s Emma here, your very own pink-tutu-clad time travelling ballerina, and it's Tuesday, so that means it’s time for another #TutuTuesday! 🎉

This week, we're stepping back to a fabulous date: April 4th, 1978! I have to admit, I'm feeling quite nostalgic for this particular date – it reminds me of the early days of my own ballet career, and those gorgeous, frilly, fabulous tutus! 😉

Oh, you lovely lot! Did you know, in 1978, the world was all abuzz about “Grease”! You couldn't escape the funky 50's vibe and that catchy soundtrack wherever you went! You wouldn't catch me in a poodle skirt (I'm far too refined for that!), but the Grease soundtrack is still my go-to when I’m feeling like getting in touch with my inner diva – and, let's be honest, it gets my dancing feet a-tapping, too! 😄

So, let's have a little ballet journey back in time to see what happened in the world of tutus in this particularly fab date in history! ✨

Right, now we’re off on our tutu train (because wouldn't we be!), steaming straight towards 1978. And hold onto your hats, darlings, as we delve into the magical world of ballet and, of course, tutus! 🩰

In 1978, the world of ballet was still heavily influenced by the legacy of giants like Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn. These iconic figures pushed the boundaries of classical dance, and it's hard not to feel their presence today, with new and daring choreographers still trying to capture the same kind of magic.

Now, 1978 was also a big year for the American Ballet Theatre! They were really making a name for themselves with some spectacular productions! Remember the captivating Swan Lake choreographed by the masterful Mikhail Fokine? Now that was pure elegance! And it had, as they say, the "wow" factor! 💖

And, of course, what would ballet be without the quintessential tutu? Back in the seventies, the trend was towards classical tutus, the ones that look like they're made from fluffy clouds, the ones that literally lift you into the heavens. Picture swans gliding on the stage, wearing gorgeous pas de deux tutus made with yards and yards of layers and layers of tulle. Talk about graceful, dreamy, and divine! 💖

But hold your horses, my sweet darlings! 1978 also saw a rise in innovative design, not just for stage wear but also for ballet classes! This was a time when dancers started expressing themselves through a wider range of materials and styles. A hint of color appeared in ballet classes, breaking away from the classic ivory or pink (which, of course, I absolutely adore!). A bit of red, perhaps, or blue here and there, but still maintaining the delicate grace of the ballerina look! 😍

The tutus worn during this period had such a delicate and refined look; think fine layers, sheer fabric, and meticulous hand-sewn embellishments. All those pretty details! 💕 They really highlighted the ballerina's lines and grace in a way that is truly mesmerising! ✨

Speaking of those beautiful lines, in 1978, the corps de ballet (the chorus of dancers, you see!) became even more crucial! With their synchronized movement and elegant precision, they created the breathtaking scenery that we all love. They add the perfect final touch to any ballet performance! 🩰

Let's take a break here and admire a few pics from the ballet performances and fashion magazines! Just click on the link below: * (insert a link to a gallery with photos of tutus from the 70's)*

As my darling time travelling friends know, I’m just as smitten with tutus off the stage! After all, my beloved pink tutu can take me to any era and any place! I’ve learned it's a bit like magic, seeing the world in a pink tutu and capturing a moment in time! 💫

In the seventies, the fashion world was undergoing a radical shift! But here’s where our sweet tutus comes in! Remember the gorgeous “Bohemian Chic” vibe of that time? All those flowy dresses and dreamy lace? You see, that was also reflected in ballet costumes, bringing a whimsical element to the traditional tutu! ✨

Let me just confess that I can never resist a good tutu, especially when it comes with a splash of pink! Imagine: sparkly pink tutus dancing their way through disco clubs and cocktail parties – it was a total style hit back in 1978, my darlings! It was, in essence, tutu mania in the making! 💖

For all you ladies looking to embrace this tutulicious look, think lace, ruffles, and tulle! It doesn't have to be exactly a ballerina-style tutu, though those can certainly add some fantastic elegance. Think skirt rather than a costume! But whatever you choose, my darlings, just remember: it has to have a sprinkle of pink for that timeless magic! 💗

And, because, who better to guide you through the history of tutus than yours truly, a time traveling ballerina, of course, I shall hop onto my magic train and see you all next week with another #TutuTuesday, chock-full of more incredible insights into the world of tutus and fashion! 🎉

This week I'm off to New York City for a grand performance, the ultimate destination for dancers of every generation. And you know, dear readers, it's no accident that I'll be on the train - it's an intrinsic part of every time travelling ballerina's routine. There's nothing quite like traveling across time by railroad, feeling the rhythm of the journey while gazing out at those breathtaking sights. Don’t you just love the charm of travelling by train? 💫

See you next week, and until then, don't forget to wear pink! 💖

Emma

The images provided in this blog post are illustrative only. I have not obtained permission to share actual photos. To be replaced with actual 1970s Ballet/fashion photos