#TutuTuesday: A Dance Through Time - Ballet Tutu History, Post Number 8217 (20th June 1989)
Greetings, dear fellow Tutu-lovers!
Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad time traveller, reporting live from the glorious year 1989! The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the air is positively buzzing with excitement, as the London ballet scene is simply thriving at the moment!
I'm back from a whirlwind trip to the grand old Royal Opera House (think glittering chandeliers, velvet curtains, and the scent of popcorn!), where I witnessed the most magnificent performance of Giselle. The ballet world was abuzz about it and the choreography was breathtaking, a real tour-de-force. The swirling tutus - all shades of white, cream and blush pink, naturally - were like wisps of cloud dancing across the stage! I must say, the costumes are simply exquisite this year; there's an abundance of elegant, flowing tutus and graceful, feminine lines. It's like a fashion extravaganza!
But first, let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we? We’re continuing our exciting journey through Ballet Tutu History, so grab a glass of something sparkling (and perhaps a piece of cake - I find it adds to the glamorous atmosphere), and get comfy!
Back to 1989: A Year of Glamour and InnovationFor those of you new to #TutuTuesday, you may not realise this, but the ballet world has actually had an incredible influence on fashion throughout the decades! You know, all those beautiful shapes and silhouettes, the way we love flowing fabric - we can thank the ballerinas for that!
So, imagine 1989. Think Madonna, think Back to the Future and, of course, think the legendary Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky! We had some big, bold, colourful looks. Lots of layers, textures and those voluminous tulle skirts with intricate detailing.
And the tutus themselves? Oh, my goodness! I was swooning over the gorgeous pastel hues – those beautiful pinks, blues, and even some shimmering lilacs, all swirling around those graceful dancers as they twirled on stage. I just love the romanticism of a tutu; the delicate layers of tulle just seem to add to the feeling of flight. They were the absolute highlight of this era! The grand allegro (that's a fancy way of saying the exciting dance parts!) really showed off these voluminous, exquisite creations in all their glory.
Back to Reality, Back to my Pink TutuAs the stage lights faded on Giselle, I slipped out of the theatre, a pink-tutu-wearing vision against the star-studded London night, ready for some late-night exploration. You know I love to browse vintage shops, seeking out the ultimate tutu gems. I'm always on the hunt for a special piece - perhaps an exquisite vintage design, something unique that’ll spark a new tutu-inspired outfit!
And for those of you who are planning to visit London, there is absolutely no excuse to miss a performance at the Royal Opera House. It is an awe-inspiring venue, the very heart of ballet history! Imagine a beautiful night, the smell of popcorn and the feeling of anticipation, mixed with excitement for the upcoming ballet show, just as I felt on this lovely June evening.
**Oh, and speaking of beautiful June evenings! Did you know that it's Queen Elizabeth II's birthday? The whole country is abuzz with celebrations, so I'm off to find myself a delicious afternoon tea, where, naturally, my pink tutu will be making a guest appearance. And yes, you know I'll be browsing the fashion boutiques to get a head start on the latest styles. I mean, even time-travelling ballerinas like to stay chic! I do love a bit of window shopping.
Join me again next Tuesday for another exciting adventure in #TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History. Until then, keep those twirls fabulous and remember - every day is an opportunity to express your unique sense of style! And yes, a pink tutu just adds that extra something to every occasion. Don't forget to wear your smile and spread a little bit of tutu magic wherever you go.
With twirls and pink tulle,
Emma, your time-travelling ballerina
www.pink-tutu.com