Hello darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, here! I've hopped back to the vibrant year of 1985, where big hair and even bigger dreams were the order of the day. Today we're exploring the fascinating world of ballet tutus - specifically, what was going on with them back in this iconic decade.
Oh, it's so thrilling to be here in 1985! The air is electric with the excitement of the times, and the streets are a vibrant kaleidoscope of fashion and music. Today's style icon is definitely Madonna, with her bold statement looks and energetic dance moves. She’s making quite a splash! And talking about bold, let's get into the tutus, shall we?
The tutu's evolution:
This 1985 is the time of ballet dancers like Mikhail Baryshnikov and Rudolf Nureyev, whose moves were both awe-inspiring and daring! They captivated audiences in romantic ballets like "Swan Lake" and "Giselle", demanding elegant tutus that allowed for fluid movement and grace. Think long, flowing tutus crafted from tulle and silk - pure dreamy visions of romantic elegance.
But it wasn't all about delicate romance! Choreographers like George Balanchine were pushing the boundaries of classical ballet with new, innovative, and, dare I say, slightly daring works, like "The Nutcracker". The tutus used in these performances were slightly shorter and structured, showcasing a dancer’s technical prowess with powerful leaps and intricate footwork. These tutus were still lovely and dreamy, just slightly less romantic. This period saw tutus embracing more complex and experimental shapes, which challenged conventional ideas and pushed the limits of ballet’s potential.
The tutus worn in the ballet world are not all we see in this time - of course! You can spot tutus all over! Even those lovely singers you'll see in a local music video or on a music TV programme are sporting variations of the tutu theme. Just a short skirt, often in a fun, bold colour - and there you have it, a street style inspired by the tutu, so darling!
And what's this? Here on the 12th of November 1985 - this date is a special one! The Royal Ballet of London, that famous company, is celebrating the end of their touring season by presenting "The Nutcracker" at the Royal Opera House. I must say, they’re a company known for its extraordinary use of tulle in their performance, their ballet dresses and the use of tulle throughout the ballet, especially "The Nutcracker" with its dreamy snow and sugar plum fairy costumes.
Oh my! I’ve had a glorious time at the show - the costumes were so divine and elegant. Just imagine, the colours were deep, luxurious reds and royal blues. The tutus, crafted from fine layers of tulle and silk, sparkled under the stage lights and moved with the dancers’ every step. It was truly an enchanting performance! And of course, after the show I did a little bit of shopping for some delicious new tutus, wouldn’t you? They will perfectly suit my afternoon tea tomorrow - with my bestest friend, Emily.
I’ve heard that on 13 November a very stylish exhibition called "Fashion from Britain" will open at the Barbican Centre. The exhibition is exploring the story of Britain’s unique role in developing world fashion from the late Victorian era to the 1980s, and they’re particularly focusing on the "Golden Age" of London in the 1950s. I'm sure it's just bursting with inspiration for all things fashion, even for a ballerina who travels through time! Oh my! They might even have some exquisite examples of tulle and lace fashion! Perhaps the ballet was not the first fashion designer! The idea has popped into my mind so I'll have to go and have a peek on this rather fabulous fashion exhibit.
Before I leave you to enjoy your day in the lovely autumn air, let’s talk about how the tutu can be integrated into a wardrobe in the style of the 1980s - you know, with that awesome Madonna influence. Just think, a cute mini-tutu styled as a skirt, topped off with a statement sweater, and perhaps a stylish oversized blazer - Oh my, now you are really rockin’ 1985! The possibilities are truly endless when you play around with colour, shape, and the sheer delight of a ballerina's favourite fashion piece - the tutu!
Remember, darling, the magic of a tutu goes beyond just dance. So have a fantastic week, embrace a little pink in your outfit, and try something new that will spark a smile! I'm off to have a spot of tea at a cafe - in a little pink tutu - don't you think this is such a cute idea?! And be sure to tune in for next week's #TutuTuesday blog. I'm travelling to a time just around the corner and I will let you know just how it is all happening! It’s so exciting to think what amazing tutus, and outfits I'll encounter on this next trip!
Love, Emma xx
