Hello darlings! It's your favourite tutu-loving time traveller Emma, back from another whirlwind trip through time, and guess what? This week, we're going all the way back to December 3rd, 1985!
I know what you're thinking: 1985?! Doesn't that seem a bit... vintage? Well, let me tell you, even back then, tutus were making a splash, and we're going to be diving headfirst into the exciting world of ballet fashion in that era.
Oh, and let me just say, this particular trip involved an incredible journey by train! Picture it, darling: plush seats, swaying carriages, the countryside whizzing by... it truly made my heart flutter!
As always, I travelled in my trusty pink tutu – this one had beautiful silver sequins cascading down the skirt, adding a touch of 80s glitz and glam! It wouldn't be Tutu Tuesday without a touch of sparkle, would it?
Right, so, imagine stepping onto a bustling London street, the air thick with the scent of freshly brewed coffee and the familiar chatter of people going about their day. You could practically hear the iconic 80s pop tunes blasting from shops and cafés – Madonna was practically queen, you see, and everyone was rocking leg warmers, shoulder pads and those incredible neon colours.
Now, when it comes to ballet in 1985, let me tell you, things were getting serious. This era saw some of the most legendary dancers – like Mikhail Baryshnikov and Margot Fonteyn – at their peak, captivating audiences all over the world. It was a time for extraordinary performances, and I had to get myself down to the Royal Opera House to see some of the incredible shows taking place!
For a tutu aficionado like myself, there's just something magical about the way tutus shimmer and twirl on stage. I'm not sure why, but in 1985, it felt like ballet costumes took on a new dimension of fabulousness! There was more volume, more intricate detail, more shimmer!
Oh, speaking of tutus, did you know that the style of tutu seen most often on stage in 1985 was the Romantic or Bell tutu? It's that glorious bell-shaped masterpiece that fans out so gracefully. I imagine all the dancers getting ready for the show in the wings, with those incredible bell tutus swaying to the music, ready to explode with the elegance of every graceful move! Absolutely mesmerizing.
Of course, what’s a ballet performance without the perfect stage set? 1985 was seeing the rise of some stunning modern ballet designs. It was like theatre meets art! They used incredibly elaborate backdrops and lighting, creating ethereal worlds where dancers could truly transport us. I loved how they were able to blend contemporary art and dance in a way that was both bold and magical.
But back to the fashions! The 1980s, well, they had some real statement styles, my darlings. And ballet, it reflected this – even off stage! I popped into a few of London's trendy boutiques to see what was new and trendy. There were colourful leotards galore, with leg warmers to match! The best part, you ask? Tutu-like frills, sequins and everything pink. It was a dream come true for this tutu-obsessed time traveler!
Speaking of pink… 1985 seems like a very pink time period in fashion! Think shoulder pads, bright pink coats and some bold pink accessories – what more could a girl ask for? I simply adore the boldness of it all! And it made me think: how often can a ballet lover embrace their love for pink and ballet? Every single day, of course! The time period of the 80s has all the right vibes for tutus!
I found myself, as ever, deeply immersed in the fascinating world of fashion and its captivating interplay with ballet. 1985 was definitely a year to be a part of!
The sheer beauty of the dance, the incredible costumes, the electrifying atmosphere – it truly made me understand why ballet continues to hold such a special place in our hearts.
But my journey wouldn't be complete without sharing some of my findings.
Here's what I discovered about 1985 that really made this trip memorable:
- The Bolshoi Ballet brought a stellar performance of Swan Lake to London. It was an absolute must-see, and I had the privilege of catching it. This timeless classic, set to Tchaikovsky's hauntingly beautiful music, made me cry, made me laugh, made me hold my breath with each captivating turn and leap. It’s pure magic on stage, darlings!
- London Fashion Week was in full swing, making it a vibrant melting pot of fashion. It was an exciting place to be for a fashion enthusiast like me. The colours, textures, shapes - oh, it just took my breath away!
Overall, this trip to 1985 was truly a delight!
And of course, as always, I'm bringing back the inspiration to help you all unleash your inner ballerina! Why not channel your inner 80s flair with a little touch of pink in your wardrobe?
Go on, my darlings. Embrace the fabulousness! You might just be surprised by the little sparkle and confidence a pink tutu can add to your life!
Until next Tutu Tuesday!
Emma x
P.S. Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com and follow along on social media @pinktutu! It's time to spread the pink tutu love!
