Hello my darling tutu lovers! It's Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast, back with another journey through the fascinating world of ballet tutus. Today we're time-travelling back to the 1980s, a glorious decade for tutus, and landing right in the heart of London! As usual, I've packed my favourite pink tulle tutu (of course!) for the occasion, and I'm ready to explore all the ballet brilliance this era has to offer.
The Tutu Scene in the '80s
London, my loves! I just adore this city! The buzz, the energy, the endless shops - and of course, the ballet! The Royal Ballet, the Sadler's Wells, and oh so many other theatres! It's a tutu haven! In the 80s, the ballet world was in a state of effervescence. There was so much experimentation happening with style and dance techniques, with contemporary ballets alongside the classics drawing crowds and sparking conversation. Tutu styles were evolving, becoming even more elaborate and, dare I say, extravagant. Think massive pouffes of tulle, incredible embellishments, and an abundance of dazzling colours. I could practically hear the tulle ruffles whispering tales of graceful leaps and swirling pirouettes.
Now, to take us back to our chosen date - July 23rd, 1985! I can picture myself swanning down a London street, clutching my program, my pink tutu gleaming beneath my coat. Perhaps, this evening, I would have been lucky enough to catch a performance at Covent Garden, one of the most iconic ballet venues in the world! Imagine, the plush red seats, the air filled with excited whispers, and the lights dimming as the orchestra begins to play. The music swells, the curtain rises, and there, under the stage lights, are the ballerinas, gracefully moving in their enchanting tutus, transforming the stage into a breathtaking realm of magic and movement.
Tutus on this Date
Now, I haven't quite mastered time-travelling with full recall of every single event that happened on this very date. But I can tell you about what's likely going on in the world of ballet and tutus!
The Royal Ballet, for example, is in the midst of their summer season, likely featuring a mix of classic ballets like Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty, as well as newer pieces showcasing modern choreography. I can imagine, while strolling around the Covent Garden area, spotting the graceful forms of ballet dancers gracefully gliding through the streets in their practice wear or heading for their shows! It's always such a treat to spot dancers, they're a vision of elegance and strength in any context.
Why I Love the '80s Tutuse
To be honest, I'm completely in love with '80s ballet style! It's full of bold and flamboyant designs, from dramatic feathered headbands to the incredible colours of the tutus themselves. Think bright magenta, turquoise blue, shimmering gold, and playful multi-colour mixes! The designers weren't afraid to push boundaries and experiment with exciting, daring, and downright magnificent styles!
Perhaps it's just a personal preference, but I find the '80s era brought a sense of carefree playfulness to ballet. The tutus became bolder, more extravagant, more playful. There's a touch of romanticism combined with a sense of fun.
A Glimpse Into the '80s Tutu Scene
The world of ballet and tutus isn't only about big theatres, fancy dresses, and famous names. I love watching and getting involved with street ballet, community performances, and of course, dance classes! Imagine stepping into a ballet studio back in the 1980s, the wooden floor creaking as a group of young hopefuls practise their routines. The scent of freshly oiled wood and a soft breeze whispering through the open window... That is the true essence of the tutu's history. From tiny children in their first tutus to professional dancers with years of training, every step of the journey is filled with beauty, passion, and creativity.
A Tutu-tastic Fashion Tip!
Just like the dancers back then, embrace bold colours, dramatic styles, and that hint of playful '80s sparkle. For example, consider a statement tutu with multiple tiers, a dazzling colour palette, or a touch of unexpected embellishment. Whether you choose a pastel or neon, or incorporate a few dazzling embellishments, channel the daring and flamboyant energy of the 80s with your own unique style!
Until next Tuesday!
And that's it, my dearest tutu lovers, for another week of #TutuTuesday. I hope this journey back in time has inspired you to explore the world of ballet tutus and see them not just as costumes, but as testaments to art, expression, and creativity.
Join me next week, as we'll be exploring the next exciting stop in our ballet tutu timeline! Remember, I love to see you rocking your own tutus and hearing your stories! Keep sending me your tutu pictures and comments! Until then, stay sparkly!
XOXO, Emma www.pink-tutu.com
