Hello my gorgeous Tutu-ettes! Emma here, your very own time-travelling ballerina and queen of pink tulle.
It's #TutuTuesday again, and I'm so excited to take you on a whirlwind trip back to 1979. The Seventies, oh how we love a good Seventies flashback! Remember the platform shoes, the bell bottoms, and the bold patterns? And of course, we can't forget the magnificent tutus!
Tutu Twirls from the Seventies
The Seventies were a real renaissance for ballet, and a time when the tutu really came into its own. Think flowing lines, vibrant colours, and some seriously fabulous feathered headdresses. It was an era when choreographers and designers were experimenting, pushing the boundaries of what a tutu could be. It was almost like, "Hold my pointe shoe!"
A Tutu Story for the Ages
But let's rewind a little, shall we? I'm a bit of a history buff, you see.
While the iconic romantic tutu - the fluffy, romantic, full-skirted one, that makes our hearts soar - had been around for a while, it really took off in the 19th century. And when you think about it, it makes sense. A time of big, extravagant, ball gowns, big hair and even bigger bustles! Tutues, with their dramatic flair, just slotted right in, fitting the grand aesthetics of the period perfectly.
The Seventies, though, were a time of evolution for the tutu. Choreographers began exploring new forms, incorporating modern materials, and experimenting with length and shape. Suddenly, the tutu was a more dynamic piece, allowing for greater freedom of movement. It's like the tutu decided it needed a break from the rigid ballrooms of the 19th century and stepped out into the streets, ready to express itself through dance.
But of course, it was not all sunshine and roses...
Like a dance competition, ballet, even in the Seventies, wasn't free of controversy. The classical tutu, with its traditional construction, was considered somewhat "limiting". But thankfully, some daring designers dared to break free from those expectations and give the tutu a more modern makeover. It became less about adhering to convention and more about using it to create unique, powerful statements. And it worked.
Tutu-licious!
One thing I've learned from my travels through time is that every era seems to have its own specific kind of tutu that defines its fashion aesthetic. What made the Seventies special? They brought in more playful, vibrant colour schemes and daring, more experimental, designs.
It's a fascinating time for our tutu, and a reminder that it can always adapt to changing times.
A Look Back to October 30, 1979
Let's fast forward to our special day in the time-travelling machine: October 30th, 1979.
On this day, my dear Tutu-ettes, we are all about fashion! It was an extraordinary evening, brimming with the magic of theatre and the thrill of the stage. On this very night in the West End of London, the Royal Opera House hosted the opening night of a spectacular revival of "La Bayadère". And do you know what was on my itinerary for this night? That's right, I was seeing it! And believe me, it was an absolutely breath-taking performance.
Now, what were tutus doing this date? They were gracing the stage in all their glory, you could say! Think flowing lines, flowing tulle, a tribute to a time of great artistry and beautiful movement.
The evening didn’t end with the theatre! Later, my fashion-savvy self headed to Harvey Nichols. My dear Tutu-ettes, this store was and still is the height of chic. Imagine yourself stepping out of a hansom cab and into this temple of fashion and exquisite things! I know it is no surprise but it was absolutely filled with beautiful pink tutu fabrics that caught my eye and sent my heart soaring! You see, my motto is that you just can't have too much pink. And oh the shopping bags of exquisite material were all I could wish for to be bringing back home to my room. It's funny, because as I walked back towards the train, I really did start to imagine all of my fellow passengers stepping off the Tube and out of their offices with their very own pink tutus and feather boas! Isn’t that what every fashion dream is made of?
Tutu-tastic! It’s Time to Party!
Well, my darling tutu-ettes, this journey through the Seventies was quite a delight! Now it’s time for you to have fun, go dancing, get inspired by your very own fashion creativity.
Don't forget, my little Tutu-ettes, the best thing about tutus is that they are a reminder that anything is possible if we allow ourselves to twirl with passion and imagination. So go on, wear your tutus with pride, and never be afraid to express yourself. Remember the fabulous dancers in their bold tutus, you are just as amazing in yours.
Until next Tuesday, my loves,
Keep your tutus twirling!
Love,
Emma xx
P.S. Don’t forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com every Tuesday for another adventure in our time-traveling tutu adventures!
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