Welcome back, darlings! It's Emma here, your pink tutu-clad time-travelling blogger, ready to whisk you back to another magical era of ballet and, of course, tutus. Today's adventure takes us all the way to 1978 - hold on tight!
This week, for #TutuTuesday, we're celebrating post number 7656 of my Ballet Tutu History blog - a milestone I'm positively delighted about. Just think, that's over seven thousand times I've travelled through time to share the fascinating world of the ballet tutu with you all. Now, let's get back to our time travel, shall we?
I boarded the train to 1978 earlier today. It was quite a thrill! I packed a gorgeous new pink tutu I found in Covent Garden - you just wouldn't believe the treasures I find in those shops - and a collection of classic ballet scores to help me settle in. I absolutely adore travelling by train. There's just something romantic about the journey, watching the countryside rush past. I especially enjoy the "Clickety-Clack" of the train's wheels. I always make sure to sit next to the window to get the best view.
So, as I stepped onto the platform at my destination in the 70s, it was clear to me that there was a definite vibe. The seventies were a real explosion of colour and excitement - think bright prints, flamboyant colours, and that distinctive, funky disco sound! But what was the world of ballet like in 1978? Well, darlings, it was still firmly in its "classic" phase!
It was all about the grand pas de deux and romantic ballerinas, but there were subtle changes brewing. New choreographers, inspired by the cultural revolution of the late 60s and 70s were starting to experiment with new forms, and bolder designs - tutus weren't so much about fluffy "ballerina princess" styles and were becoming more about what I call "Powerful Elegance". There was also a movement toward a more theatrical, expressive ballet, which allowed dancers to break free from strict traditions. I find it simply inspiring!
What was I doing on September 19th, 1978? Well, I managed to snag tickets for a fantastic performance of "La Bayadère" at the Royal Opera House in London. You just couldn't have imagined how incredible the choreography was - pure romance with a touch of drama. I swear, the tutu's were the perfect blend of soft tulle and grandeur! They twirled with the grace and precision of a skilled artist’s brushstrokes, creating such a symphony of visual poetry. The audience, I can tell you, was totally mesmerized, which, after a while, gave the show that magical air of being truly magical.
In the fashion department, tutus were getting a little bit more contemporary, with innovative designs emerging that added extra flourishes. It was no longer just about the traditional shape, darlings, although let's be honest, nothing beats the timeless elegance of a classic ballerina tutu. Think La Sylphide and Giselle. But it was starting to be a little bit about the colour and structure of the tutu. You might spot a flash of neon pink on a ballerina’s bodice, or a bold geometric pattern on a tulle skirt, oh yes! And that is exciting news to this pink-obsessed blogger.
Speaking of fashion, 1978 had some real highlights! Remember the platform shoes? The bright, bold colours in everything, the funky patterns? It was all so much fun! There was a sense of freedom in dressing up - not just for special occasions - everyday style was about self-expression and having a good time! I was loving this fantastic trip and took several photos and, of course, indulged in a few vintage shopping sprees at London's incredible department stores!
There was even a little touch of ballet in the everyday clothes, with soft tulle and silk appearing in everything from blouses and skirts to even handbags. Oh! It felt amazing. So it seemed that ballet was really seeping into the mainstream, inspiring a whole range of fashion choices for everyone - not just those on stage. How fabulous is that?
I, of course, made sure to attend a ballet class on the 19th of September! Imagine all the inspiring people and the incredible energy of the class. It truly made me wish that we could take some of their energy with us back to the future.
The one thing that was very apparent was the dedication and passion that those dancers had - the desire to create magic and to move the hearts of the audience. As I walked back to my own time, my pink tutu swirling in the air, I was so inspired! It's a reminder of why I love tutus so much, and why it's important to remember how fashion, style and art come together to create something truly spectacular.
This week's #TutuTuesday challenge for all you gorgeous souls out there: Try pairing a bold print shirt or top with your pink tutu! Go on, I know you can create something magical!
Remember, every day is an opportunity to embrace the joy of tutus. So wear your pink tutus proudly, darlings, and let the magic of ballet shine through in your style.
Until next Tuesday, love from
Emma
Pink-Tutu.com
