Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your Pink Tutu blogger, back with another journey through time for your weekly dose of tutu history! This week, I'm dusting off my trusty time machine (don't ask me how it works - magic!) and taking us all the way back to 18th February, 1997, the very year I, quite literally, was born into a world of pinks, sequins, and swirling tutus! 🎀
Remember that iconic song "Barbie Girl" by Aqua? Oh, the sheer joy of a slightly less complicated world - a world where pop culture and the ballet intersected in all sorts of sparkly, joyous ways! 🎤💃
Tutus in the 90s: The Rise of the Tutu Dress
This is a period in history where tutus started to pop up in some surprising places. I'm talking, of course, about the iconic "Tutu Dress." Oh my goodness, swoon! We all remember those dreamy pink, fluffy frocks (just slightly reminiscent of a certain fairy godmother...) that the Spice Girls and all the coolest popstars rocked. 🤩 Remember the "Baby One More Time" video? That’s what I call fashion history right there, darlings! 🎶
It's funny how, with the evolution of fashion, it all seems to come full circle - from traditional ballet costumes, we're seeing tutus take a leap forward and take on the world! 💫
Ballet On This Date: 18th February, 1997
I have a feeling, my darlings, that while we are talking tutus and fashion in 1997, ballet itself was having a real moment. And, guess what? I am feeling quite the explorer - so, off to the archive! A quick scan of the dates reveals that three very special performances are scheduled for this day! 🎭
- The Royal Ballet, Covent Garden: We’re in London, the capital of tutu culture, for the very grand ballet. Now, I wish I could tell you the exact ballet playing that night - unfortunately, I don't have quite enough detail from my travels - But, oh my, how divine to picture those sparkling, elaborate sets, the graceful ballerinas, the pure beauty of it all. 💕
- Scottish Ballet, Glasgow: Across the waters in the vibrant city of Glasgow, I feel it was quite a spectacle, even without knowing the specific ballet. Scottish Ballet - always so wonderful. They were on tour, making ballet accessible to a wide audience. It's lovely to think of them taking on the whole city with their elegance. 😍
- Birmingham Royal Ballet, Birmingham: Oh Birmingham! I simply adore this city with its fascinating mixture of history, culture, and of course , style. The passion that was flowing through the dance at the Birmingham Royal Ballet, just the thought fills me with joy! 🎉
Oh darlings, I know! It’s so inspiring to think of all the wonderful events taking place - a true testament to the magic of ballet, even all those years ago! 💖
A Journey of Pink Tutues: Train Journeys and Time Travelling Fun
I'm off to Derbyshire on the train! My gorgeous vintage frock (that I found on sale at a local boutique, I do love vintage treasures!) and pink, sequined shoes, I think will do just fine. I might need to add a little sparkle with some hair gems - nothing says chic like a little added glam! 💖 It’s quite a journey from Derbyshire to London - an excellent opportunity for me to get my creative juices flowing. 😉
Speaking of trains - Did you know, darlings? I’ve had my very first successful trip through time using my pink time travelling device, also found in that vintage boutique! You’ll never guess what the name of that beauty is - “The Pink Tutu Express!" Oh, what a lovely thought - a time-travelling ballet studio with a pink, feathered outfit for all passengers! How perfect is that a dream?! 😍
Of course, the time travel doesn’t happen for free. That's why I always incorporate a bit of ballet magic and passion - some incredible performances that help to fund my trips! My most recent gig - a show on Broadway for an evening that involved plenty of tulle and sparkle! (I love New York! I found amazing fabric stores and vintage boutiques) - all to fund my next great adventure - to be continued of course, but I can tell you it involves *1950s France, Chanel couture, and some *truly fantastic tutus!* 🤫 I'm just dying to get to that era.
Your Tutu Thoughts: Join Me for More History!
I can’t wait to hear all about your Tutu Tuesday experiences! How has the fashion changed from 1997? What’s your dream Tutu style? I want to see all your gorgeous photos - Share them on Instagram! And tag me @PinkTutuEmma or share your story in the comments. Until next week, darlings! Remember, a tutu a day, keeps the ballet blues away! See you in time! 💖
