#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1999-08-31

Hello darlings! Emma here, back again for another dose of tutu history. It’s Tuesday, which means one thing… Pink tutu time!

Today I'm feeling utterly delighted to be whisking you back to 31st August 1999. Oh my, 1999! Remember Britney Spears? And that other iconic pop song by the Backstreet Boys? A whirlwind year! But let's focus on the really important thing: ballet tutus, my dears.

So, how were our beloved tutus looking back in the end of the nineties?!

Hold on tight to your feather boas, because it’s a bumpy ride…

I’ve had an absolute blast travelling to 1999. Remember, I always get around via the good ol' train. I always pack my trusty pink case stuffed with tulle, my very special travelling tutu, and plenty of sparkling tights. It wouldn't be #TutuTuesday without it!

Once I reached 1999, I did a little ballet-hopping and headed straight for London's West End. This magical land, darlings, is full of exciting, fabulously-dressed people and it's where to go for the best shows, shops and theatre. (Oh, and a good dose of ballet inspiration!). I headed straight for the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden. After all, everybody knows it’s a true Mecca for all things tutu.

Speaking of Covent Garden, do you remember the fabulous Royal Opera House productions happening this week? I know, I know, it's so hard to pick a favourite…

First, there's Giselle! What’s not to love about the romantic, tragic story of Giselle and Albrecht? Those iconic tutus! This production features stunning white tutus in Act I, transforming into an ethereal, romantic vision in the final act, just oozing dramatic elegance! And the tutus, darlings? So simple yet so beautifully designed, giving off a real fairytale vibe.

But, oh, how I longed to see Swan Lake! You can imagine my excitement. The majestic white tutus in the swan sections of this beloved ballet… simply exquisite! I adore the way those delicate white tutus twirl on the stage, bringing to life those innocent and captivating white swans. The dark tutus for the black swans? Oh darling, just gorgeous.

But my journey through the ballet world of 1999 was not over. Oh, no. The greatest event I’m lucky to see this week is The Sleeping Beauty, just like it's always been. The *regal pink and lilac colours used in The Sleeping Beauty tutus just take my breath away.

Every detail is just magnificent and it’s clear the effort taken to bring the tutus to life! Those stunning white tutu variations! How gorgeous are the ballet tutus used in the Lilac Fairy’s sections? I almost choked on my pearls when I saw the sheer loveliness. Oh, I adore The Sleeping Beauty!

You simply must visit the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden when you're next in London!

Once I'd finished watching all the divine ballet shows in Covent Garden, it was time for some retail therapy. (Because, what's a trip to London without shopping, right?!) I'm here for the beautiful ballerina supplies at shops in and around Covent Garden, darlings.

Let's face it, every tutu-lover loves shopping for dancing outfits! Where's the best place to shop in 1999, you ask?

Why, Harrods! A haven of all things fashionable and chic! From divine fabrics to gorgeous ballerina shoes!

Do I have to remind you to try the beautiful pink dance leotards and stunning tutus? Those delicate pale pink shades… simply perfection! This shop really has everything. From classic tutu variations to those beautifully made 'ready to dance' outfits - they're just the thing to elevate my dance look. I also had my eyes set on the pink tights - those pink leg warmers just scream " ballerina style”! And the shoes? Do you know how many hours I spent picking my favourites?

After shopping at Harrods, it was time to indulge myself at one of my all-time favourite shops in Covent Garden - Liberty London. It’s simply divine. This place always gets me in a total fashion frenzy. The vibrant fabrics in their silk section and all that beautiful, colourful lace – it’s an absolute dream for any dancer! It's full of the most exquisite lace - and you know how I feel about lace and pink. What could be better for dressing up a basic tutu, giving it a dash of femininity and extra oomph?

And speaking of 'extra oomph', you're going to want to take a peek at those little trinket boxes, darlings. Always full of the most amazing ballet-related pieces. Imagine adding those delicate, pink, pearl earrings to my dance outfits? And those sparkling tutus made out of beads! Perfect! And that deliciously girlish jewellery is absolutely what a ballerina needs in her life!
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Oh, it's been so much fun taking you back to 1999, my loves! It really is a reminder that there's always something new and exciting going on in the tutu world.

Today, we've learnt all about the amazing dance productions on show at London's Royal Opera House, and we’ve indulged in a fabulously stylish trip to my favourite London shops. Remember, the ballet world is forever evolving - it’s all about embracing new designs while always celebrating the timeless beauty of classic styles.

Of course, remember #TutuTuesday next week when I’m off on another time travelling adventure. Who knows what’s in store, but one thing's for sure: you’ll love the new tutu trends and inspiring stories I'll bring back.

And always remember… the best way to look good is to wear pink and tulle.