Hey there, tutu-licious readers! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, Emma, here! 👋💖
Today, I'm jetting back to 1980-07-15 for a little history lesson, and you bet your bottom tulle I'm bringing my signature pink tutu along for the ride! 🚂 🩰
For this week's Tutu Tuesday blog post, I'm taking you on a trip to the heart of the tutu-loving world - where else but the grand city of New York! The place is absolutely buzzing with dance performances this week. It's the ultimate destination for tutu lovers, and I'm right here in the thick of it, taking in all the action.
The date is 15th July 1980. And what's on tonight? Why, it's a magnificent production of Swan Lake, starring the legendary Mikhail Baryshnikov! It’s going to be a magical performance!
Speaking of legendary, let's delve into some ballet history shall we? While tutus were certainly around before 1980, it's important to acknowledge this pivotal decade for the evolution of ballet costume. Think iconic New York City Ballet, with designs by the talented Karinska and the captivating George Balanchine. Those elegant designs were revolutionising ballet, and that inspiration was reaching the world!
On the topic of influences, my tutu research today focuses on the ballet world in London which was a massive influence in the dance scene. As for the dancers… I am head over heels for Dame Margot Fonteyn, who danced alongside Rudolf Nureyev.
Now, if you’re a dancer like myself, then 1980 might seem like a long time ago… But for me, it feels just a hop, skip and a pirouette away! My biggest dream in life? Making all the fashion and art enthusiasts embrace the glorious power of the pink tutu - the perfect statement piece! 💖🩰
Think of all the iconic outfits! Princess Diana loved her pink and she was always at the forefront of trends. 👑 What about some fabulous '80s hair with huge bows and puffy sleeves? 💃 Now combine those looks with a sparkling tutu and it’s perfection! I’ve already started my design sketches - what do you think? Let me know in the comments below!
As for my travels this week - you bet I've got a full schedule! After Swan Lake, I’m going shopping at Bloomingdale’s for all the newest dancewear. They say the best place to see dancers in New York is actually Bloomingdale's. I am in heaven there! After I'm done, I am heading to a tea room in Central Park and then to the ballet studios to meet other dancers and hear their stories.
Oh, and if you ever visit the New York City Ballet studio in New York - you can’t miss the wonderful costume shop! It's an absolute treasure trove! They’ve even got beautiful vintage tutus – some are over a century old! It’s inspiring, but those things are incredibly fragile so don't go getting too close! 😂
But speaking of fragile, my next stop is the Metropolitan Opera, which I will tell you about later. For now, remember to visit the website and get your latest fix of tutus! See you next Tuesday for more exciting adventures. Until then, have a wonderful week and may you all find yourself dancing through life with the grace of a ballerina! ✨ 💖
Ciao, ciao! Emma x
