Hello, darlings! Emma here, back with another instalment of your favourite pink-tutu-filled time travel adventure. Today we're hopping back in my sparkly leotard, setting the dial to December 12th, 1966, and heading to New York City - the bustling heart of the world's ballet fashion scene.
Itās been a gloriously hectic few weeks here in Derbyshire! My latest street performance with my fabulous pink tutu and glitter boots caused quite a stir - everyone loved my rendition of "The Swan Lake" finale on the corner of Market Square. Honestly, I can't resist the look on peopleās faces when I suddenly pirouette past them in a flurry of pink. It's pure magic!
Now, back to 1966 - I've always been fascinated by this period for leotard fashion. It was a time of revolutionary change, as ballet embraced new materials and styles, pushing the boundaries of the classic aesthetic. And guess what, darling? I just knew I had to see it for myself!
Landing in New York, I found myself in a whirlwind of exciting sights and sounds. Everything felt so alive! As soon as I stepped off my time-travel magic pink sparkly bus (it was a bit of a tight squeeze, I confess!) I realised I had to make a dash for the famous āBallet Boutique.ā
This little gem was a must-visit in the heart of the city, offering a curated selection of leotards, tutus and ballet shoes. Imagine my excitement! My pink tutu practically vibrated with glee at the sheer spectacle. It was the ultimate destination for dancers, offering all the latest trends and a selection of custom made designs too! It felt as though a new world of creativity had been opened up for ballerinas - so very inspiring!
Of course, I just had to try a few things on! It was a pure indulgence to slip into a luxuriously soft nylon leotard - the colours! The fabrics! A vibrant teal that glowed, a shimmering scarlet with delicate white piping - it was breathtaking!
My time travel wouldn't be complete without a glimpse into the world of theatrical dance shows. Luckily for me, there were multiple exciting productions gracing New York stages this week. "Swan Lake" starring Maya Plisetskaya at the Metropolitan Opera House was a sellout. Just imagine - I had been learning the āSwan Lakeā finale all week - and here it was - legendary! I couldn't miss the opening night performance.
The excitement of the entire evening was electric. The opulent grand hall of the opera house, the expectant hush before the music began. Then, the orchestra swells and there she is ā Plisetskaya, grace personified. The sheer artistry of it all was beyond anything I had ever experienced. Even now, as Iām writing this, I can feel the goosebumps. It was breathtaking!
Seeing Maya Plisetskaya onstage gave me an extra spring in my step. Back in my hotel, after the curtain call, I excitedly scribbled down my observations - so many inspirations for my own street dance performances, even a new choreography idea inspired by Plisetskayaās incredible movement. It was clear that a new era was dawning in the ballet world - and what an amazing time to be a part of it.
And it wasn't just on the stages, you could feel the energy in the streets. Ballet dancers and enthusiasts flocked to New York - you'd find them in Central Park, taking advantage of the snowy rooftops for their afternoon dance session, in coffee shops, planning their next costume creations.
I had an amazing time soaking it all in. What a wonderful period in ballet history - a true turning point, and one that certainly cemented the leotardās place as an indispensable part of a dancerās wardrobe!
Now, what did I wear? Of course, my sparkly pink leotard was a must - but for a touch of New York chic, I paired it with a luxurious red coat with a fluffy pink trim, and a sparkling black clutch. A touch of glamorous New York City style, wouldnāt you say?
Until next month, darling, keep twirling and be sure to check out www.pink-tutu.com for more updates on all things ballet fashion!
Lots of love, Emma xox
