#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1979-10-02

Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink-loving, tutu-twirling, time-traveling ballerina, Emma, back with another edition of #TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History! Today we're taking a trip to a magical date in history – October 2nd, 1979.

Oh, 1979… such a fabulous era for dance! Can you imagine? Platform shoes, disco music, and tutus that were practically a cloud of chiffon! Just imagine waltzing through a glittering dance floor in a pink tutu that just begs to be twirled. I could have danced all night long!

But first, let's talk history!

1979 was a particularly exciting time for tutus! We've already explored earlier eras where tutus were big, fluffy and almost too much. By the time the 1970s arrived, things had taken a more streamlined and athletic turn. Tutus, particularly for ballerinas in pointe shoes, became lighter and more flexible, perfect for those amazing high kicks and breathtaking jumps. Imagine trying to execute a grand jeté in a Victorian-era ball gown - impossible!

Think about the iconic tutu design for 'Swan Lake'. Its grace and ethereal quality came about due to these developments in tutu construction and materials. It's a prime example of how fashion and function go hand-in-hand in ballet!

And what about all those magnificent tutus you see in ballet performances nowadays? That intricate beadwork, the shimmering fabrics, the sheer artistic beauty! It all started with humble beginnings and slowly developed into a statement of style and technical performance, proving that tutus can be both breathtaking and functional.

I must say, October 2nd, 1979, in New York City was absolutely electric! Can you believe it was on this very day, at the New York City Ballet, that Mikhail Baryshnikov premiered the iconic work "Other Dances"? I felt the buzz in the air, the excitement bubbling over – this wasn't just a performance, it was an event! I bet all the stylish dancers in the audience were wearing some exquisite tutus, even off stage.

My oh my, the tutus for "Other Dances" were something else! Imaginary costumes in muted shades of grey with pops of bold color – what a stunning, unique style. Seeing it in real life, seeing the powerful leaps, the incredible speed, the sheer artistry… It made me want to don my pink tutu and hit the dance floor!

Oh, and of course, a little ballet-related shopping couldn't hurt! The vintage fashion in 1979 was quite extraordinary. Bell bottoms and high platform heels! Oh, the glamour! I even snagged a divine beaded bag for a steal – it was in an incredible shade of magenta, perfect for a night out with the girls!

Speaking of the girls… remember my trip to Paris in the 1920s for a ballet competition? Remember those stunning hats with long feathers that adorned our outfits? And how those tiny lace shoes we wore would dance on the marble floors? Ahh, the joy of ballet is a beautiful memory, regardless of when and where you enjoy it.

Don't you agree, darlings, that the right tutu can make you feel like you can achieve anything? We all need a little confidence, and what better way to get it than with a graceful, swirling, feminine tutu?

Tutus are a reminder that you can be beautiful, strong, and expressive all at the same time. They inspire us to embrace the beauty within and move with grace and confidence. Whether we are a ballerina twirling onstage, or simply stepping out for a day of errands, we can bring a little ballet magic into our everyday lives.

You don't have to be a ballerina to enjoy a tutu!

• Wear a pink tutu under your dress, a beautiful accessory for that special occasion!
• Wear it for your next picnic, so easy and chic for an afternoon tea party.
• Let's wear tutus for an afternoon of dancing, or maybe a game of tag.

My dear, remember to always embrace the wonder and grace of the tutu. A tutu is for every woman – a testament to femininity, elegance, and confidence.

Oh, don't forget to pop over to our website for more fabulous tips and tutu inspiration. Until next time, happy twirling!