#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History: 1989-09-05
Post #8228
Hello my lovelies, and welcome back to another fabulously pink edition of #TutuTuesday! I’m your host, Emma, your resident pink tutu-wearing time traveller, and this week we’re going back to September 5th, 1989.
Can you believe it’s been almost 35 years since this magical day?! Now, back in the old days, even though we had less shiny fabrics and no electric ballet shoes (imagine! 🤯) fashion was definitely still going strong! I always tell you all: there’s never a bad time to be a tutu enthusiast.
Let’s get into it! I was just in London, seeing a phenomenal production of Swan Lake by the Royal Ballet, absolutely beautiful! Now, imagine a stunningly elegant performance with all the drama of a Victorian ballet set, paired with beautifully layered white tutus that swish and shimmer with every arabesque, creating an ethereal air… Just breathtaking. That’s how they did it in the late 80s. Oh, the glamour of the time, a world of lace, silk and satin, just begging for an epic Instagram-worthy pose (I bet even Princess Diana was loving those tutu shots)!
But let’s talk about a truly iconic moment: a film released the year before, in 1988 - *“Dirty Dancing,” * set against the backdrop of 1963 and capturing a joyous burst of rebellious, colourful, and undeniably romantic summer days! The dance scenes in that film, the stunning outfits, the emotional intensity! Remember “Baby’s” classic black dress? Or Johnny’s moves in that sweatshirt? Honestly, they just radiate style, right down to the very last detail. That’s how we roll here at #PinkTutu. It’s all about celebrating those timeless, dramatic styles - think: big tutus for ballet classes, cute tutus for twirling, and just generally anything with sparkle, layers, and loads of flair! ✨
A Peek Into September 5th, 1989
I think, on that very day, some of the finest minds in the ballet world would have been busy rehearsing the final touches of their incredible shows. I was there at the Royal Ballet with my very best pink tulle, catching the excitement in the air. Even those who weren’t performing felt the buzz of creation!
Fashion Focus: The tutu’s evolution
Just for a little trip down memory lane, imagine this. Tutús in 1989 weren’t quite as elaborate as today’s “all-out sparkly magic” tutus. We had those classic white, black, or pale pink styles you see in the pictures, and those long graceful skirts for those classical ballet performances. You’d find lots of tulle, beautiful fabric flow, a touch of delicate detailing on the waist or neckline… Just stunning. The beauty of a simple, well-structured, elegant tutu was enough!
And here I am, almost four decades later, dreaming up exciting new tutus, maybe even ones with glow-in-the-dark accents! But those 80s designs still hold a certain magic in them, and we still look to them for inspiration. The time travel is great for fashion ideas, too! (Psst...did I tell you I'm designing my own tutu line? Watch this space!😉 )
Onwards to Today:
Remember, this journey’s all about exploring history and bringing its magic to life. We take the elegance and joy from the past and infuse it with the creative excitement of the modern world. You can embrace that spirit whether you’re in your 20s or your 80s – no age limit on looking fantastic in a tutu, right?!
So next Tuesday, we’ll go deeper into 1989 and see how the tutu continued to spin and sparkle, just as you will continue to find that spark, whether you're rocking your tutu on a weekend trip, at a local recital, or even at home as you sip your tea. Let your creativity shine!
Happy twirling!
And as always, please do let me know if you have any tutu tales, questions, or thoughts! I just love to hear from you lovely, sparkly souls. Until next Tuesday, keep on shining!
Yours in all things pink,
Emma x
P.S For a glimpse into my current sartorial journey, come join me at www.pink-tutu.com where you can find even more tutus galore and behind the scenes fun, alongside fashion advice from me! Let’s stay connected and spread the tutu love, one twirl at a time! 💕