Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast, bringing you another fabulous instalment of #TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History! This week, we're taking a time-traveling trip back to September 29th, 1998! 🚂
Imagine, if you will, a world where dial-up internet is the hottest tech and boy bands reign supreme. The Spice Girls are still filling the charts, the world is just beginning to catch "Pokemon Fever," and, of course, the ballet world is thriving as always!
What's going on in the ballet world this week? Let's see!
The Royal Ballet are holding their last performance of "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Just imagine, such a beautiful and timeless tale performed by some of the world's finest dancers - what a spectacle it must be!
New York City Ballet are presenting the Jerome Robbins Festival, celebrating the legendary choreographer's amazing work! What a perfect excuse to don my favourite pink tutu and catch some fantastic contemporary dance pieces! Now, a little fun fact about Mr Robbins: he was actually a founding member of the original Broadway cast of West Side Story!
The American Ballet Theatre are hosting "La Sylphide," a classic Romantic ballet, perfect for showcasing the artistry and grace of the dancers.
Meanwhile, across the pond at the English National Ballet they are presenting "Coppélia," a light-hearted and entertaining ballet set in a whimsical village. Just thinking about all those adorable dolls and colourful costumes fills my heart with joy! 💕
But what about the tutus?
September 29th 1998 falls firmly into the era of classic ballet tutu design. Think fluffy, billowing skirts in pale pink, shimmering tulle, and delicate embroidery. These tutus were all about showcasing the dancer's lines, and, of course, creating an ethereal and magical feel!
Fashion, then and now
1998 is definitely a time of strong fashion trends. Think chunky platforms, baby tees, bell-bottoms, and mini-skirts. As always, the world of ballet inspires fashion in so many ways. The beauty of ballet movements and costumes has definitely influenced fashion trends. And remember darling, when we are looking at fashion it is about more than clothes! It is about confidence, attitude and flair! And don't forget the pink! It's a fantastic color to inspire a bit of happiness and creativity, no matter what the era. 😉
My adventures in 1998...
I'm just imagining a lovely tea-time in the Royal Opera House with my dear mum, talking about our favourite ballet shows. After, we could take a wander through Covent Garden, perhaps stopping for some decadent chocolate at Rococo, one of my favorite sweet treats! And of course, what would a day out in London be without a spot of window-shopping, especially in Harrods, a true haven for all things luxurious and beautiful!
Final Thoughts
I hope you all enjoyed this trip back to the beautiful and inspiring world of ballet in 1998! Remember darling, just because we're looking at the past doesn't mean we should forget the importance of making beautiful memories and keeping that pink tutu spirit alive!
Do let me know your favorite tutu styles in the comments! And remember, if you are a ballet enthusiast, there are so many exciting events and shows coming up around the globe, from Covent Garden to the Bolshoi!
Don't forget to check back in next Tuesday for another wonderful blast from the past in #TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History!
Lots of love, Emma 💕 www.pink-tutu.com
