#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1981-09-01

Hello darlings! Emma here, back with another trip into the captivating history of tutus. This week, we're travelling back to September 1st, 1981, and let me tell you, this particular date is full of excitement, from a legendary performance to some groundbreaking fashion moments!

As always, I've hopped aboard my trusty time-travelling carriage, this one shaped like a glorious swan, complete with a plush velvet seat and the scent of lavender (for ultimate relaxation, obviously). I even managed to squeeze my favourite pink tutu into the boot! It's always important to be fashionable even when travelling through time, don't you agree? 😉

Oh, and by the way, this is #TutuTuesday blog post number 7810. It's my aim to reach every corner of history with my tutu-filled musings and reach a total of 10,000 before I even think of taking a break. The ballet world, and the world in general, is so packed with tutu magic, we could easily reach 10,000 posts just by chronicling what's happening today! But I digress... let's get back to 1981, shall we?

September 1st, 1981 was an incredible night for ballet, with the Royal Opera House in London playing host to the dazzling The Sleeping Beauty. Oh, this was a big deal! A beautiful production that left audiences completely enchanted, complete with stunning costumes. I’m just so lucky I was able to snag a seat. I was practically beside myself, and not just because the sheer joy of the ballet but because I couldn’t resist squeezing into a magnificent scarlet evening gown (which had pockets – don’t tell the queen!) to really take the grandeur of it all in.

The ballerina who played the titular princess Aurora, that was Darcey Bussell! Her portrayal was breathtaking. Every arabesque, every pirouette – absolute perfection! I know she went on to have an extraordinary career, and seeing her performance that night confirmed it. Seeing a budding superstar in her element like that is the best thing in the world, and you just knew she was going to achieve phenomenal things. It's wonderful how many legendary performances take place right here in London! The city never ceases to inspire.

Of course, the performance wasn't the only reason this date is significant. Fashion in 1981 was having a real moment. It was an era of big shoulders, bold colours and statement jewellery. I remember I loved going into Harrods and John Lewis just to browse the amazing colours! They have so many choices, even now! Remember the days of dressing up? When every occasion was a chance to pull out the very best outfit in your wardrobe, especially your evening gown! Those were the days. I may be partial to a tutu, but I appreciate a good dress too!

Speaking of the wonderful world of fashion, this era also saw the emergence of Gianni Versace, who redefined luxury and brought a fierce, flamboyant touch to the catwalk. Even today, the world is enamoured by his iconic designs and daring creations. In my own travels across time, I've seen the fashion world transform, and Versace remains a consistent figure, always pushing the boundaries. What I really loved was that his clothes empowered women - and that is something I'm a big advocate of! Remember, there’s no reason why a little twirling isn’t possible even with big hair! It's all about expressing yourself, and with a tutu, anything is possible!

Now, 1981 also gave us the The Gap. Yep, that’s right, the Gap, the store known for its casual and comfortable clothes. Imagine, comfy and stylish clothes for everyone? At first, I thought this must be some sort of magic, a place where anyone can be a star! It was all about that casual elegance and being fashion-forward without breaking the bank, which, of course, I was quite smitten with. Although, nothing beats the experience of wearing a beautiful couture dress to the opera.

September 1st, 1981 wasn’t just a day, it was a whole mood! This time period marked a point in history where the world was bursting with energy and creativity. It's like, they couldn't wait for the decade to unfold. That sort of electrifying spirit, well, I just can’t resist.

Don’t you find it wonderful how history is such a whirlwind of exciting events? From amazing ballet performances to the beginning of iconic fashion labels, the year 1981 certainly brought about its own share of unforgettable moments, and as I travel through time, I can’t wait to share even more stories. Until next Tuesday, darlings, and remember, if you want to make the world a little brighter and more fabulous, be sure to slip on a pink tutu! I dare you to give it a whirl and tell me about your own #TutuTuesday experience on my blog!

Love always,

Emma

www.pink-tutu.com