Hello my darlings, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where all things pink and tutu-licious reign supreme! It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another jaunt through the whimsical world of Ballet Tutu History, and this week, my lovely lovelies, we're waltzing our way back to 1997.
Ooh la la, the 90s! Can you imagine a world without social media, where your biggest concern was getting the right pair of platform shoes for your rave outfit? 😉
It's true, I recently popped over to 1997 for a spot of ballet-watching (and some vintage shopping, naturally). As I strutted through the streets, feeling fab in my pinkest tutu, the atmosphere was quite something! The world felt…simpler. We had the Spice Girls belting out 'Wannabe', the world was about to lose its mind over the internet, and everyone was into grunge. Now, grunge and tutus? Not usually my vibe, but hey, we can't all have a timeless sense of style, right? 😂
What was happening on September 16th 1997?
Well, folks, the world was going absolutely bonkers over the Spice Girls's second album 'Spiceworld'! As I twirled around in my pink tulle paradise, the radio was blasting out "Say You'll Be There", and frankly, I had to tumble in agreement with them. 🎶
I managed to catch the Royal Ballet's production of 'Giselle' at the Royal Opera House. Talk about a classic, my lovelies! There was an absolutely mesmerising performance of breathtaking skill, pure artistry, and an absolutely exquisite display of romanticism. A tutu can be the most perfect expression of grace and femininity, and this was certainly on show! I may have even shed a few tiny tears...the music! The storytelling! It was utterly enchanting!
But what about the tutus themselves?
Well, let me tell you, they were quite a spectacle! In this era, it was the height of neo-classical style – lots of airy, floaty tulle with gorgeous detailing around the neckline and on the bodices. Think about ballet, think about dreamy elegance.
The key was to show off those legs, so those tutus were just short enough to showcase every gorgeous kick, every graceful leap. In my opinion, it's always best to let the magic of ballet be centre stage – which meant showing off those amazing costumes as well. A good ballerina doesn't just dance, she commands attention!
You might not know this, my dears, but back in '97 the ballet world had its very own "supermodel". 💃 The iconic Sylvie Guillem, the undisputed Queen of French ballet, was wowing audiences with her dynamic performance. Just imagine a ballerina who was so admired that even fashion designers wanted to dress her. That was Sylvie! A powerful and beautiful presence who always knew exactly how to work the perfect tutu to achieve her stunning effects!
That's what I'm all about - embracing our inner-diva through the power of the ballet tutu. Don't be shy, my dear loves! Get out your sparkly hairbands and your finest ribbons! Put on your brightest pink tutu, even if it's just for a few hours! Live your best life, my loves! 💖
Speaking of the ultimate fashion expression, I am about to jet off to the Paris Opera House for a show I've been longing to see! A trip to the Parisian capital is never complete without a shopping spree, especially in such a fashionable city! I will be bringing you a special fashion-focused blog next week, with a round-up of my very best finds!
Until then, keep dancing, keep twirling, and always keep believing in the power of a pink tutu! ✨
Love always,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. I am always on the lookout for fellow Tutu-Lovers, so feel free to comment below and share your favourite Tutu memories! Let's talk all things ballet!
