Hello, my lovelies! It’s Emma, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, and welcome back to my blog, Pink Tutu. I’m thrilled you’re joining me on this journey through time – this week, we're taking a trip back to December 19th, 1989, where the fashion scene is bursting with vibrant colour and excitement!
Remember those oversized shoulder pads? The neon colours? Those chunky, gorgeous earrings? And the glorious dance of fashion that was the 80s? It’s so much fun, isn't it, to dip back into this era and enjoy the looks! And oh, let’s not forget the tutus, darlings! Today, I’m delving into the tutu history of the period and trust me, there's plenty to discuss!
This blog post, number 8243 on Pink Tutu, marks the 25th anniversary of the "Tutu Tuesday" tradition. And what better way to celebrate than by taking a trip to 1989 and immersing ourselves in the ballet world of that era! I'm dressed to the nines, in a beautiful, vintage, powder pink tutu. This one has a tulle overlay with the most delightful hand-sewn floral embroidery. So chic, wouldn’t you say?
Back to 1989! Let’s go shopping and ballet watching…
Ah, 1989. A time when tutus were making quite the fashion statement, not just on the ballet stage but also on the streets. I remember walking through the Covent Garden market in London – that bustling hub of artistry and fashion - and spotting all sorts of stylish tutus: shorter ones, with playful ribbons, paired with leggings and leather jackets; longer, more classic ones, perfectly accessorized with silk scarves and glamorous gloves. And, oh darling, how the colours popped – fuchsia, cerulean blue, chartreuse green, lime… I simply couldn’t resist indulging in a new tutu purchase myself. A magnificent, emerald green tulle dream, that twirled with the utmost joy, it went wonderfully with my floral bomber jacket and platform trainers!
This fashion boldness wasn't confined to London. Imagine: strutting through Paris with a statement tutu under a blazer, accessorized with a beret and a chain purse. How stunning! Imagine strutting through Milan, channeling the fabulous energy of a chic ballerina in a sophisticated black tutu, paired with a classic tailored coat and knee-high boots. A classic with an edge. And remember those high-waisted pants? Paired with a tulle tutu, they became so trendy.
Remember all the popular TV series? The Bold and the Beautiful was still rocking on, and remember Dynasty? Remember when the soap operas and shows were full of glam outfits and glamourous lifestyles? In 1989, that love for extravagance was trickling down to everyone, including ballet lovers like me!
Speaking of ballets, what were audiences enjoying in 1989? Well, The Sleeping Beauty was making a triumphant return at The Royal Ballet. Now, The Sleeping Beauty is considered a classic for good reason! The iconic, romantic tutu worn by Aurora is something to behold. And with the backdrop of a breathtaking Russian classical ballet, it is guaranteed to mesmerize. And that exquisite ballet soundtrack! The score was absolutely magical – and I always end up feeling so transported after I've watched the whole performance. It's pure magic!
1989 and my travel memories.
To experience 1989 fashion fully, you have to experience the thrill of travel - that magical blend of movement and style! For me, that means train travel. Imagine a long train journey across England, my lovely pink tutu draped over my arm as I settle into my seat, admiring the landscapes flashing past the window! A beautifully crafted vintage, embroidered, Tutu can add so much glamour to a train trip.
Oh, the adventures I’ve had! I'm always eager to explore. And when I see those gorgeous red-carpeted theatre floors, my heart beats faster. The anticipation of the performance makes every journey worthwhile. Just this past week, I enjoyed a beautiful performance of Swan Lake, with those glorious contrasting white and black tutus.
As you can see, there is such a richness in 1989 and all the excitement of fashion and ballet. We really were on the cusp of the modern era. And although today's fashions and ballets are bolder, it's always wonderful to reflect on the trends and inspirations of the past!
Don’t forget, darlings, you don’t need a time machine to find your own inspiration. Remember, every day is a chance to create a little bit of magic with a dash of sparkle and your own pink tutu! Until next week, keep on twirling!
Emma xx
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