#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1978-07-25

Hello my lovely tututistas! 🩰✨ Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com for another #TutuTuesday adventure in the whimsical world of ballet history!

This week, I’ve hopped in my time machine – fueled by a good cuppa and the thrill of a perfect pirouette – and landed smack bang in the year 1978! Now, if you think 1978 is all disco balls and bell bottoms, you’re not quite right! There was a lot going on in the ballet world that year, and let me tell you, tutus were still very much a thing!

From my Derbyshire roots, it’s always felt like the perfect blend of countryside charm and cultural sophistication. This travel bug though, this fascination with all things tutu, has taken me on a whole new journey, from the glittering stage lights of Covent Garden to the cobbled streets of Paris. This week, I’m back in Europe – my trusty pink suitcase packed with just the right shade of pink tutu to complement the year 1978 fashion!

The year 1978 was a pretty special one for ballet. There was The Royal Ballet's magnificent production of The Sleeping Beauty in London! They had just unveiled new costumes designed by the iconic designer Peter Hall – absolutely exquisite! Imagine a glittering spectacle of gold, crimson, and of course, a whole host of perfect tulle tutus. Just divine!

But there’s more than just London to celebrate! Across the English Channel, the French ballerinas were making their mark, too. Remember the name Sylvie Guillem? This was the year she joined the Paris Opera Ballet! Talk about a moment! Guillem’s dancing, so light and expressive, was considered a breath of fresh air in the world of ballet.

Let’s not forget New York, a bustling ballet haven with American Ballet Theatre thriving, the company that was giving the Bolshoi Ballet a run for their money! 1978 saw some exciting performances, with the stunning dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov, who captivated the world with his extraordinary talent!

1978 was a bold and vibrant era, with bright colours, funky textures and a real emphasis on individual style. You can imagine me – my pink tutu twirling around a busy London street – a pop of colour against the background of disco-inspired clothes.

So, what were ballet dancers wearing back in 1978? Tutus were the heroines, of course, with gorgeous colours and layers! A bit of romanticism with an air of punk-rock inspiration mixed into the ballet aesthetic.

Think lots of tulle, frills, and a good dollop of dramatic makeup. They definitely embraced colour and the trend of the ‘disco era’. You might catch a glimpse of bright turquoise, fuchsia, and yes, even my favourite – Pink!

I spotted some absolutely gorgeous pink tutus worn by ballerinas at the Paris Opera! Just the right kind of shade for me! Pink with a bit of an edgy flare! Oh my, I just love this era! It has all the things I love - a touch of ballet romance with a good dose of bold style!

Are you ready to channel your inner 1978 ballet star? I have some top tips for incorporating this look into your life:

1. Pink, Pink, and more Pink! It’s the ultimate colour of the moment! Wear a beautiful pink tulle tutu, add some pink lipstick, or maybe even some funky pink shoes. Don't be afraid to make a statement!

2. Mix & Match! You can easily bring a little bit of 1978 magic to your style by adding just a few statement pieces! I'd suggest pairing your favourite tutu with some bell bottoms, a sequinned top, and some glitter – that’s how you achieve that 70s magic!

3. Add a touch of sparkle! It’s all about that shimmering glamour. Add a touch of sparkle to your outfit with sequins, rhinestones, or even a little glitter.

4. Embrace the bold makeup look! This era was all about those bright and dramatic looks! Think strong eyeliner, long lashes and a touch of shimmer on your eyes!

My time machine journey continues, with plans to head back to Derbyshire for a weekend. Nothing beats a good tea party with mum, while we talk all things tutu! I’m also going to see a performance by the Royal Ballet - and then maybe some vintage shopping to find some funky 70s style. After that, I'll be heading back to London to watch a ballet show. This time it's the English National Ballet’s interpretation of Giselle. Oh yes!

Now that you know my adventures in the world of tutus from the 70s, it’s time for me to sign off! Remember, you can follow my journey every Tuesday right here at Pink-Tutu.com! We all love ballet! And there's something really special about a pink tutu in this world, don't you think? Let your inner ballerina shine! Keep twirling, my friends, and stay stylish!

💖 Emma 💖