Hello, darling tutu enthusiasts! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you back in time to the wonderful world of ballet fashion from June 1st, 1982.
Today's adventure takes us to… drum roll… the Royal Opera House in London, darling! This iconic theatre, dripping in history and glamour, is the heart of the ballet world in 1982. Can you picture it? A magnificent grand foyer with swirling chandeliers and plush velvet seating. Just the kind of place where a tutu would be right at home, don't you think? 😉
But what about the tutus themselves? This decade was all about the neoclassical ballet boom - think Mikhail Baryshnikov, Rudolf Nureyev, and Margot Fonteyn at the pinnacle of their careers, pushing the boundaries of technique and style. The tutu became simpler, more sleek – not a huge puffball like you see in classical ballet, but a beautiful, flowing creation that emphasised the dancers' incredible artistry.
Can you imagine twirling across the stage in a slinky, knee-length tutu, crafted from delicate layers of tulle, with just a hint of colour? The dancers were absolutely stunning, all elegant lines and effortless grace. Now that’s what I call tutu-fabulous!
June 1st, 1982 happens to be a Wednesday – sorry, a little cheat, but this means Royal Ballet was taking a break, just for the day! However, that doesn't mean there wasn’t plenty going on in the London dance scene. There's always a dance performance, or a rehearsal somewhere! The London Contemporary Dance Theatre was performing, and just over in New York they were presenting the Paul Taylor Dance Company at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, now wouldn’t that have been something special to see! I may have slipped in to watch one of the rehearsals while I was time travelling, it's just too much fun not to.
Talking of fashion, my eye just spied some fab trends. The 80s are all about bright, bold colours, leg warmers, and, of course, the tutu! But we’re talking ballet tutus here. Those frilly tulle skirts I mentioned earlier? Imagine them paired with a gorgeous velvet leotard in vibrant colours. So stylish!
And just like now, a classic ballet bun is the perfect way to accentuate your dancer’s look. Just remember, it's all about creating the perfect, graceful silhouette! And trust me, the ballerina of 1982 would know how to rock it. I have to confess, I think I may have tried to make myself some leg warmers. I have a feeling the Derbyshire knitting community isn't ready for my futuristic visions just yet. I love a good challenge, however. So, what did you wear?
But I don’t want to bore you with fashion, let’s talk about the shows! They really made a statement! Just picture this – choreography that is incredibly athletic and expressive. It’s as if the dancers are telling stories through their movements, not just relying on the traditional narratives of classic ballets. Think Balanchine and his amazing use of geometric shapes, or Frederick Ashton bringing that extra special grace and theatrical flair. And of course, the fabulous tutus twirling with it all.
Now, the reason I had to bring up those classic tutus and fluffy ones is… this week marks a big leap forward in the design of tutus, just a few years later. A famous tutu designer named Karinska who made tutus for most of the world’s big dance companies for a large part of the 20th Century (including my own favourite pink tutu which I travel around the world with, well most of it as a vintage pink tutu would just end up looking grey by now). Karinska took inspiration from these innovative, artistic designs to create some very daring, even revolutionary, new tutus! I must say, I just loved it. I’ve got some sneaky glimpses into what it's going to be like… but that’s for next week’s #TutuTuesday. 🤫
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to experience a truly magical evening of dance, be sure to make your way to the Royal Opera House, the New York City Ballet or one of those London theatres like Sadler's Wells. Grab a programme, settle into a comfy seat, and lose yourself in the magic of ballet. And of course, never be afraid to be a little bold with your style, even if that means adding a touch of pink tutu to your wardrobe! Just imagine a few tutu-loving friends taking on London or the Royal Opera House or the whole ballet world… how lovely would that be? 😉
See you all next week, and until then, stay glamorous! 💋💖
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
