Hello my dearest Tutu Twirlers! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where tutus reign supreme and every Tuesday is a celebration of frills and pirouettes. Today we're diving headfirst into the fabulous 1980s - a decade of shoulder pads, leg warmers, and, you guessed it, tutus!
Today's date, February 10th, 1981, was a Tuesday, just like today! So let's put on our finest pink tutus and step back in time to a world where leg warmers weren't just for the gym and neon was everything.
(Cue dramatic music and imagine a vintage train rolling past.)
I arrived in 1981, straight off the London train. (Such a thrill, riding through the countryside, gazing at the passing scenery! My train dress? You betcha! A luscious magenta taffeta number that wouldn't look out of place at a royal ball - all I needed was a tiara!) This year's "it" colours were the bold, bright pinks and yellows, much to my delight. The moment I stepped onto the station platform, the whole world seemed to be swirling in an 80s fashion whirlwind! Everyone was all about those flamboyant shades of pink, even the gentlemen! And guess what else? Tutu style was hitting a peak! The dancers of the Royal Ballet were dazzling the audience in beautiful tutus!
Imagine: tulle galore! Layered, flowing, featherlight, perfect for those impossibly high jumps and impressive leaps. Not just at the Royal Ballet, mind you! Tutued ballerinas graced the stages across the land, filling the theatres with an atmosphere of pure joy. From the grand Victorian Opera House in Manchester to the opulent Theatre Royal in Plymouth, tutus were taking centre stage - just the way I like it!
But hold your horses, this decade wasn't all about the traditional. It was the era of "balletmania" and "Street Dance" – ballet's cooler, more modern cousin – which infused tutus with a street edge. And that's when we got the "Ballet Skirt" which you might still spot in shops. It's basically a cute, tiny tutu you could wear out on the town, maybe paired with a ripped-up denim jacket and your favourite neon pink t-shirt! Now that's what I call mixing it up, right? (Oh! I wish I could've snapped up a few of those vintage denim jackets, my personal style could definitely benefit from a dash of rebellious spirit.)
1981 saw ballet dancing its way into mainstream pop culture with hit musical "Cats". Imagine the vibrant spectacle! A kaleidoscope of colour, dazzling costumes and energetic dancing... It truly captivated the hearts and imaginations of millions. No surprise then that this year saw record audiences at every theatre showing the musical!
Speaking of "Cats", a quick shout-out to the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber - the man who redefined theatre music and put tutus in front of the whole nation! This wasn't your grandma's ballet.
But "Cats" wasn't the only Broadway spectacle bringing ballet's flair to the masses! Ballet was bursting out of the traditional performance space and into television studios too. Shows like the legendary "American Ballet Theatre's "Nutcracker" Special" graced screens, giving ballet fans a taste of twirling magic from the comfort of their living rooms!
It was an era that celebrated individual style. Everyone had their own personal "look" and loved to express themselves. The big hair, the bright colours, and oh my - the shoes! Wedge shoes, bright platforms, high heels - anything that made a statement! Who needs diamonds, darling? I was ready to steal the show in my bright pink suede stilettos and a playful, pink tutu anyway!
But it wouldn't be TutuTuesday without some inspiration, would it?
If you want to take inspiration from the '80s style, grab your sewing machine (or head to the shops!) - you need an abundance of tulle, sparkle, and pink! There's nothing stopping you from whipping up your own tutued fashion dream!
The Pink Puffball: A statement tutu that will make everyone turn their heads. Start with layers of pale pink, coral or magenta tulle, and use bright satin ribbons for the waistband, adding a few playful bow knots!
The 80s Tutu Mix-Up: Go crazy with colours and patterns! This tutu can have a layer of shimmery silver tulle for that disco-chic look. Add another layer of black and pink tulle to add a grunge element. Throw in some chunky jewellery and be ready to take on the world!
The Street Dance Ballet Skirt: Embrace your inner rebel with a little tutu inspiration! Get yourself some neon pink or yellow tulle and add a black tulle overlay. Finish the look with a pair of vintage jeans and a denim jacket, you can even tie a white scarf around your waist. Now that's what I call ballet meets street style!
Oh, and for those of you wanting to add a little ballet magic to your lives, why not sign up for ballet class? There are classes for every age and every skill level - it’s never too late to learn a new skill and to discover the joy of dancing. And, don't forget those lovely tutu workshops – perfect for adding a touch of sparkle to your day and helping you create your own fabulous tutu masterpiece.
My dearest Tutu Twirlers, keep dancing, keep smiling, and keep the pink tutus flowing.
Until next TutuTuesday,
Emma xx
P.S. Do you have any memories from the 1980s? Have you ever seen a "Cats" performance, or enjoyed an 80s TV ballet show? Share your stories in the comments below! I can’t wait to hear your tales of tutued fashion and dancing delight!
