Welcome back, darling tutus! It's your favourite time of the week – #TutuTuesday! Today, we're jetting back in time, not to the 19th century (though let's be honest, I wouldn't say no to a peek at Marie Taglioni's wardrobe!), but to January 22nd, 1985. A mere thirty-eight years ago! Can you believe it?
I've got my trusty pink tutu on, and it's time to unpack our time machine – I mean, grab a cuppa – and dive into some fashion history, because today's topic is one close to our tutued hearts: The Ballet Tutu.
As I shimmied through the streets of… wait for it… Paris, let me tell you, 1985 was all about excess! We were talking big hair, shoulder pads, and yes, even more layers of tulle than you can shake a sparkly stick at! I actually popped into a little boutique right near the Palais Garnier (oh, the divine opera house, every ballerina's dream!), and let me tell you, they had some fabulous bouffant skirts, all the better to show off those sky-high leg warmers. (We can talk about those another time, they were basically the hottest fashion trend ever!)
But what about the tutus, darling?
Let's travel back to 1985!
Firstly, we can't ignore the incredible artistry and legacy of the great Rudolf Nureyev. It was 1985, remember, so a tutu legend in his own right. His style, so athletic, so fluid, made those iconic romantic tutus soar through the air! Oh, how I would love to have seen him dance in person!
Secondly, modern ballet was definitely making its mark in 1985! We saw choreographers pushing the boundaries of the traditional tutu, experimenting with new shapes and designs. This meant we saw some amazingly edgy tutus, darling, all daringly different and perfect for the bold ballerinas of the day!
And you know what else was amazing about tutus in 1985? They were practically everywhere! From ballerinas on the stage, to fashion editorials (imagine seeing a tulle tutu on a Parisian runway! Breathtaking!), even to the occasional party outfit. Can you imagine strutting your stuff at a disco with a fluffy pink tutu on? Honestly, I think I need a time machine to do that!
But the beauty of it is, tutus haven't gone out of style, darling!
They are, in fact, experiencing a full-on renaissance! Just last week I saw a ballerina rocking a hot pink tulle tutu with glitter, darling, while a fabulous new street fashion label was all about bright, modern designs, showcasing the very versatile tutu! The tutus are back, darling, and here to stay!
Don't you think it's exciting? And wouldn't it be lovely if we all embrace our inner ballerinas? Just think of the fun!
Speaking of fun, on this day in history – January 22nd, 1985, – the amazing film 'The Jewel of the Nile' premiered (who doesn't love Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner? Classic movie!) – but more importantly, for me, that meant another great film 'Staying Alive' was also showing, which featured a beautiful choreography from the * legendary Patrick Swayze!** It was pure magic!
But here in Paris, I don't think I saw a single tutu! I just love travelling, don't you, darlings? The tutus I have seen recently were incredible, they made me almost want to buy them for myself! I wouldn't wear them for a night out - I prefer the sleek lines and beautiful silhouettes of designer clothing - and besides, my precious pink tutu would get too grubby.
And besides, what is the point of tutus without the magical twirling, graceful leaping, and passionate emotions? There’s just something magical about a ballerina in a tutu! It's like stepping back in time to a time when dreams and imagination ruled the day.
Now that's something I can definitely get behind.
Stay fabulous, my tutus! And, remember, every day can be Tutu Tuesday!
Until next time,
Emma 💖
* www.pink-tutu.com
Post # 7987*
