#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1990-02-06

Hello, darlings! Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast, back with another blast from the past! It's #TutuTuesday, and today, we're twirling back in time to the glorious year of 1990! This week, I decided to take a little train trip to the city that never sleeps - New York! You simply cannot talk about tutus without acknowledging the brilliance and elegance of New York City ballet, and this week, my dears, we're going to be transported right into the heart of it all!

So, grab your favourite cup of tea (and maybe a slice of Victoria sponge, just because!), snuggle into your comfiest armchair and let's travel back to 6th February, 1990 - the day when a fabulous piece of ballet history unfolded on the grand stage of the Metropolitan Opera House. It's post number 8250, my loves, on the ever-so-fabulous pink-tutu.com.

(Time Travel Disclaimer: This time travel escapade was entirely funded by a wonderful opportunity to dance in a beautiful Swan Lake performance! Just a reminder that my love for ballet makes it possible for me to whisk you away on these fantastic tutu-licious journeys!)

Now, I know what you're thinking - why are we talking about a specific date back in 1990? Well, my dears, that's when something extraordinary took place. On this very day, the world-renowned New York City Ballet took to the stage, their swirling tulle and sparkling pointe shoes promising an evening of pure magic! It was a special evening indeed, because they were showcasing "The Nutcracker", the quintessential holiday ballet, known for its dazzling costumes and mesmerizing choreography.

Did You Know? "The Nutcracker" is a tradition! It first premiered in 1892, based on the magical Christmas tale by E.T.A Hoffmann. I love how this charming ballet captures the excitement and wonder of childhood.

But the real star of the show that night, my dears, was Gelsey Kirkland. I absolutely adore her! A beautiful, talented dancer with a presence that captivates everyone! I was simply thrilled to see this legend take center stage! This performance was not only special for "The Nutcracker" but also for Gelsey's amazing return to the New York City Ballet! The buzz surrounding her performance was positively electric. Can you imagine, a whole generation watching the world-renowned ballerina perform again? I can feel the sheer excitement just from reading about it!

This event isn't just about dancing, though, it's about the fabulousness of fashion, darling! Think of those classic tutu designs! You've got your exquisite tutus for the sugar plum fairies, those beautiful pale pink frocks, fluffy and sparkling. You have the impressive Nutcracker, complete with his little top hat and intricate costume. It’s a truly visually stunning performance. And can we talk about the Christmas party scene, with its vibrant costumes and joyous atmosphere? Simply enchanting!

And if we talk about the fashions from 1990, imagine all the pretty pastel pink and white tutus for the young ballerinas - like me, at that age, of course! It's the era of ruffles, ribbons, and fluffy fabric galore! Ballet performances were pure magic, darling!

Now, I have a secret - I may have bought a pair of bright pink ballet flats while I was in New York. It's all about accessorising for that glamorous ballet look! It was such a splurge, but my pink tutu and those bright flats make quite the fashion statement! I even have my own little “Sugar Plum Fairy” hat to top it off. It just adds a touch of that holiday magic!

After this time travel adventure, I was buzzing! It’s wonderful how these past trips provide so much inspiration. You can't go to New York without embracing the excitement, discovering unique fashion trends, and immersing yourself in the world of performance!

And what do you know, I’ve found my latest fashion fix – vintage ballet costumes! Now, where on earth am I going to fit another closet in this apartment?!

And for your little challenge, darling! How do you get that “New York” sparkle about you? What's your favourite element of "The Nutcracker" performance? Share with us in the comments below! It's wonderful to share this love of all things tutu with you!

Till next #TutuTuesday, keep twirling in your most fabulous pink tutus!

Emma, signing off!

xx