Welcome, dear readers, to my little corner of the internet, where we celebrate all things pink and all things tutu! It's Tuesday, which means it's #TutuTuesday! This week I'm diving back in time, back to a glorious era of big hair and even bigger tutus, 1982! It's post number 7835 on the www.pink-tutu.com website.
I recently zipped through the annals of time (thanks to my favourite tutu-filled travelling ballet performances, of course!) and landed myself smack bang in February 1982. Now, this was a time of vibrant creativity in the world of ballet. The tutus were poofy, the leotards were bright, and the dance was truly inspiring!
This Tuesday, the 23rd of February, in the world of ballet, we have the opening of "Giselle" by the Royal Ballet in London. This romantic ballet was revived in the 1980s to great acclaim, showcasing the incredible technical skill and artistic artistry of the dancers. Can you imagine? It was quite the event. I can't help but imagine all the glorious tutus fluttering on the stage – think tulle mountains and elegant satin sashes! If only I could have snagged a backstage pass and gotten a glimpse at the dazzling wardrobe - wouldn't it have been fantastic?
Now, let's chat a bit about tutus back in 1982. We were experiencing a real renaissance in design, thanks to iconic figures like Rudolf Nureyev. Gone were the days of traditional, simple, fluffy white tutus – it was all about colour and drama. We're talking electric blues, bold reds, dazzling golds, and even a smattering of shimmering metallics.
And don't even get me started on the detail! There were cascading tiers, intricate pleats, and even feathered adornments. You know, like that scene from "Black Swan" but, you know, without the terrifying ballet mistress!
In 1982, a good tutu had a story to tell. It wasn't just about elegance, but also about expressing a character, telling a narrative through movement and, of course, fabulous fabrics! I adore the creativity of that era, and it just goes to show how tutus can evolve and adapt to any age or time.
Even if I weren't a dedicated tutu aficionado, you would know, dear readers, that the 1980s were an important decade for ballet! This period saw the rise of new choreographers like William Forsythe and Twyla Tharp, who were redefining the boundaries of dance and exploring contemporary styles. This creativity was even finding its way into costume design, resulting in daring new designs.
Back then, tutus were considered a statement piece, an expression of both individual style and creative vision. You could find a tutu in just about every color and shape, from sleek and streamlined to voluminous and ethereal. If you could imagine it, you could wear it! It really was a wonderful time for ballet and fashion.
I even recall, whilst strolling down Oxford Street in 1982, catching sight of a boutique filled to the brim with amazing, colourful tutus! They weren't just for ballet dancers anymore, but a stylish fashion statement for every young lady! I must admit, it took all my willpower not to spend the entire contents of my little travelling purse, I mean who could resist a pink tutu with glittering sequin butterflies?
While the ballet tutu today may have gone through some transformations (hello, 21st Century, minimalism, and more innovative styles), the charm and elegance remain unchanged! Whether you prefer the classical tutu with its fluffy, tiered glory or the contemporary design that celebrates simplicity and functionality, it's still that iconic piece of garment that captures the essence of ballet and, of course, dreams.
But for me, I can't help but find myself returning to that era, to the tutus that were a riot of color and grandeur. That's the magic of a ballet tutu: It embodies a sense of history, evolving through different generations, showcasing the timeless beauty of dance.
*And remember, my dearest tutu enthusiasts, this is just a glimpse into the wonderful history of the tutu. There's a whole world of stories, fashions, and dances waiting to be explored. *So grab your favourite tutu, spin a few pirouettes, and join me next Tuesday as we explore another dazzling decade in ballet history!
P.S. Let's hear from you! Have you seen any amazing 1980s tutus in person? Tell me all about them in the comments below. I'd love to hear your memories and your love for these fabulous pieces!
Stay fabulous, my fellow tutu-lovers!
Love, Emma
P.P.S. Did you know, on 23rd of February, 1982, the very first UK national Lottery took place? And on 23rd February, in a non-tutu-related tidbit, it was declared a "Leap Day" back in the year 45 BCE, in the days of Julius Caesar, but it was considered lucky! That's right - if you were born on the 23rd of February, in a leap year, you've got that extra day luck! Isn't it great to be a ballerina? We really are lucky!
