Hello my lovelies! It's Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast and time-travelling fashionista, ready to take you on another whirl through the magical world of ballet tutus!
This Tuesday, I've landed myself right in the middle of 1986, a year bursting with exciting new styles and some absolutely dazzling ballet productions. As a huge fan of all things frilly, I was utterly thrilled to be wearing my perfect vintage pink tutu - a true beauty from the 1980s, embellished with shimmering sequins and soft layers of tulle. The only thing I adore more than the feeling of a perfect tutu is the journey to find it! I am utterly smitten with the treasure hunt of vintage shops.
Today, we're going to explore the fascinating evolution of the ballet tutu. This wonderful garment isn't just a symbol of dance, it’s a testament to fashion’s enduring influence and its constant quest to redefine beauty and femininity. You’ll see, as the years went by, it wasn’t just the length or the design that evolved, it was how it was worn and perceived! Oh my, imagine trying to get on stage wearing one of those floor length tutus that used to be considered the height of style. Let's just say, it’s much easier to really dance with a shorter tutu. But, as always, let's travel back in time to see what was trending around May 13th, 1986.
This very date in 1986, a real ballet enthusiast could have been experiencing the grand and oh-so dramatic story of "La Traviata," the poignant love story by Verdi. But this wasn't just any performance, my dears. The very talented Mikhail Baryshnikov took to the stage, captivating the world with his impeccable moves. Now, those tutus! They had some of the most delightful detailing, just beautiful layers of tulle with carefully placed beadwork, creating a truly decadent effect! For that era, ballet tutus truly became an exquisite piece of artistry - not only showcasing the beauty of movement but enhancing the emotions woven into every choreography. It’s no wonder why I get my ballet kicks (pardon the pun) from seeing how much effort and care went into crafting them.
And what better place to celebrate the exquisite world of ballet and, of course, the beloved tutu, than Paris. Oh, darling Paris, the city that holds a very special place in my time travelling heart! Its energy vibrates with beauty and culture, and for someone with a passion for both ballet and fashion, it truly feels like home! You could spot tutus at every corner - on stages, at glamorous soirées, even a cheeky spot of tutu-wearing among street dancers! It really is a city that understands the magic and allure of these airy masterpieces.
Oh, and while we are talking about ballet performances, the grand theatre is not just about the ballerinas! My, oh my! I simply adore all the fashion around a theatre performance! I’ve been doing quite a lot of "theatre hopping", darling. It’s amazing the fashion these designers conjure! Last week, I found this beautiful dress, and guess what it looked like? You guessed it, my dears - a gorgeous tutu-inspired silhouette! Oh, how I adore when my ballet-wear inspiration reaches other areas of fashion. This is true genius.
In fact, back in 1986, tutus were much more than a stage costume. Just a few short years after the iconic "Dynasty" TV show graced our screens with shoulder pads bigger than a ballet skirt, the world was entranced by big, bold fashion statements. And oh how our ballet friends kept up with the fashion times! This era saw some truly dramatic ballet tutu styles, with more embellishments than ever before. Think of delicate sequins scattered across cloud-like layers, huge and fluffy bows making an impact, and dramatic, multi-layered designs that brought a breath-taking impact to the stage. But it’s not all just sparkle and flair. A key aspect to this period's fashion choices was that everything was just big. That includes the huge ballerina hairstyles.
These tutus are what I love about the 1980s era. It's almost as though a ballerina could be mistaken for one of those larger-than-life, fashion-forward pop stars! This combination was pure perfection for the fashion lover in me. Just imagine, tutus were becoming the symbol of individual expression - a celebration of confidence and a statement that said: "Look at me! Look at me in this magnificent masterpiece! " I truly find it a testament to the spirit of the time - fearless and bold in an era defined by fabulousness!
Now, my loves, don't just stand there! You may think of tutus as just an item on the stage, but think about it! You too can embrace a touch of this ballet beauty in your everyday lives. Try wearing a skirt or dress with that extra bit of fluff - the ballet style still influences our wardrobes.
In 1986, even high street shops started incorporating elements of this fashion statement. They gave tutus a very everyday appeal, even if it just meant a tiny hint of ballerina-inspired style in some tops or dresses. You see, that is how fashion is. It starts as a big fashion statement, a powerful symbol of a certain period, then it evolves and reaches even the mainstream shops. But don’t just settle for a small tutu-inspired detail - go full-on glamorous! I highly encourage you to join me, in the wonderful world of tutus!
That’s all for today’s #TutuTuesday journey. Remember my dears, wear what you feel confident and happy in! After all, as my dear mother always says "the most important fashion accessory is a smile" - that will make your outfit shine even brighter, like the shimmering sequins of a perfectly vintage ballet tutu.
Until next week!
Don't forget to pop on over to www.pink-tutu.com and join me every Tuesday for more fashion escapades in my favourite garment!
Lots of love and *extra sparkle,*
Emma 💖
