Hiya darlings! Emma here, back again for another fabulous #TutuTuesday journey through the wonderful world of the tutu! Today we're twirling back to January 2nd, 1996, a date full of magic and sparkle, and what better way to celebrate than with a fabulous pink tutu on!
The year 1996 feels like a lifetime ago, doesn't it? Back then, the world was buzzing with excitement, a whole new millennium just around the corner! I remember everyone was talking about Y2K, wondering what would happen, how computers would go haywire, and whether or not the world would end! It seems almost silly now, but it was quite a big deal back then.
Speaking of silly, I love remembering how fashion trends were so different back in 1996! Think baggy jeans, chokers, crop tops, and the resurgence of the mini skirt - which I absolutely embraced! Now, there are certainly elements of that era that have come back in style (looking at you, baggy jeans and mini skirts!), but back then, it felt like we were on the cusp of something amazing.
This is definitely the case when it comes to dance! The early to mid-nineties were a fantastic period for ballet, a time when some truly groundbreaking choreographers were bursting onto the scene! It was a time when we saw ballet reaching out to wider audiences with bolder themes and a focus on contemporary dance alongside the traditional classics. I remember the excitement around Bill Viola who is best known for his video installations and has created incredible work around the human experience, often incorporating performance into it.
There were also a lot of fantastic dance companies touring all around the world, bringing breathtaking choreography to new audiences! From Ballet de l'Opéra National de Paris, whose amazing work on Giselle and Sleeping Beauty wowed audiences all over the world, to Royal Ballet, where a fresh generation of ballerinas, like the incredibly talented Darcey Bussell, were making waves! The energy and creativity around dance felt absolutely electrifying, and I think we're still seeing those vibrant themes influence the way we experience and move in the world today.
Speaking of moving in the world, my little journey to the past today took me on a lovely train trip, all the way from my quaint Derbyshire village, to the heart of London! The city was brimming with a sense of anticipation for what was to come, the new year always offers so much possibility and of course, I was looking for that extra special piece of fashion to bring to my 1996 wardrobe! It felt a little more practical and less frilly than my usual style, but oh my, the amazing vintage fashion boutiques I found in Kensington had the perfect 90s looks, I couldn't resist a classic fitted black dress (a nod to the mini dress that had become the 'it' item) and a sassy little bolero jacket. I had a fun afternoon of thrifting and vintage styling. It was fun to experiment and play with different styles while channeling a little bit of that 90s flair!
Now, we all know I love a fabulous tutu, but even with my dedication to the ultimate dance-wear item, I do appreciate the variety of ways you can rock a look in any era. The great thing about a tutu, as I keep reminding you, is that it can take you anywhere. It works for a dress-up party, a ballet performance, or just a stroll through the park. It is a timeless, versatile piece that adds just a hint of magic to whatever look you are going for.
Remember, my dears, the aim is to add a little sparkle and joy to everything! A little splash of colour, especially if that colour is pink. It is our divine mission, darling! And so, my little darlings, it's time to spin on those shoes, find that perfect pink tutu (it might be hidden in a corner of your wardrobe or waiting patiently in a vintage store, ready for a new home) and let the music sweep you away to a place where anything is possible. That's what the tutu always offers us, a sense of possibility.
See you all next week, for another #TutuTuesday journey through the glorious history of the ballet tutu. Don't forget to visit my little website www.pink-tutu.com where I will share more amazing adventures and gorgeous inspiration. I'd love to see your tutu styles, don't forget to share with me!
Stay twirly, darling,
Emma x
