Greetings from a rather chilly London!
This week's #TutuTuesday takes us all the way back to December 29th, 1998. Now, imagine me in a fluffy pink tutu, standing amidst the bustling festive spirit of London just before the turn of the millennium. Honestly, you can practically smell the mince pies and hear the carols echoing in the crisp December air!
It was an exciting time for dance, and especially for tutus! The Royal Ballet was still basking in the glow of their phenomenal production of "The Sleeping Beauty," a magical spectacle that left everyone enchanted. Darcey Bussell, our national ballerina treasure, was still dancing, and she was utterly breathtaking in every performance! Honestly, just her presence in the tutu alone was enough to set any theatre ablaze!
But 1998 was more than just the sparkle of the Royal Ballet, though they did hold a very special place in our hearts (and still do, don't get me wrong!). Ballet was truly blooming in its popularity across the globe. "Billy Elliot," the heartwarming tale of a young boy defying all expectations, premiered in London, captivating audiences worldwide with its dance and heart-warming message. It even took the stage in the United States and became a Broadway sensation!
It seems as though even our favourite musicals were starting to incorporate a little ballet magic. The Broadway production of "The Lion King", already a sensation, had captivated everyone with its beautiful costuming and dance elements, making audiences feel truly connected to the story through the artistry of its choreography. Remember that powerful scene in the Serengeti with the lionesses – chills, chills, chills!
This period truly had an extraordinary buzz surrounding it, an excitement that could almost be touched, that truly elevated dance to a whole new level of recognition and celebration.
Back then, you see, tutus were the fashion statement for ballerinas on and off the stage. Everyone from little dancers at the local ballet schools to the world-renowned prima ballerinas wore their tutus with pride and poise. They were a symbol of artistry, of beauty, and above all, of that beautiful feeling you get when you leap into a perfect pirouette. It was simply the height of fashion!
Of course, my dearest #TutuTuesdays readers, no true fashionista could stay away from the stores on this day. In the spirit of December 29th, 1998, I’m indulging in some fantastic tutu shopping today! It's been an exhilarating week of travelling through time, but who wouldn't say yes to a delightful new tutu? I can already imagine my perfectly chosen ensemble, flowing with the elegance and grace of a ballerina, bringing a little touch of 1998 fashion into 2023.
Perhaps a vintage tulle skirt, a little longer than today's tutus, a touch more voluminous with just a hint of sparkly embellishment? Can you picture it? It will be glorious!
But don't forget, the essence of #TutuTuesday goes beyond the beautiful ballet wear – it's about celebrating the art of movement and self-expression. So, regardless of whether you're taking a ballet class or simply admiring the artistry on a stage, don't be afraid to add a little sprinkle of tutu magic to your day!
And who knows, maybe someday you'll join me in my pink-tutu crusade and wear one yourself! I’m hoping one day it’s possible to have everyone in a tutu! Wouldn’t it be absolutely amazing?! I can imagine a world bursting with color and energy!
Until next week's #TutuTuesday adventure, I bid you a warm adieu from the heart of London. Keep dancing, stay positive, and remember:
The world needs more tutus, especially pink ones!
Love, Emma
PS: Follow me on Twitter and Instagram @PinkTutuBlog for extra fun #TutuTuesday moments and other fashion adventures!
