Hello my lovely readers, Emma here!
It's time for another thrilling trip through the captivating world of leotards. As you know, December is always a special time for a ballerina girl. Twinkling lights, bustling city streets, and the promise of joyous theatre performances make December a month where fashion sparkles more than usual. This month, we're whisking back to December 12th, 1860! Buckle your ballet shoes, my lovelies, we're about to embark on a sensational voyage.
This time, I found myself back in 19th century Paris. Now, this was a city teeming with innovative ideas and, you guessed it, fantastic fashion! You wouldn't believe the buzz around the city about the latest innovation in leotard fashion, the "tutu" - or, as they called it then, the tulle. My, how times have changed! Imagine the sheer (pun intended!) excitement surrounding such a revolutionary dance garment!
But my dear readers, my heart belonged to something even more exquisite, something a little more daring – the corset! 1860 saw women experimenting with a whole range of undergarments, and I couldn't resist a trip to a renowned corset shop tucked away in the heart of the Latin Quarter. Just imagining myself twirling in the flowing fabric, it gave me all the right kind of flutter in my chest!
I couldn't leave the fashion haven without a little shopping spree of my own! The shops were overflowing with the most magnificent fabrics in jewel tones. I'd be lying if I said my head wasn't spinning from the exquisite selection, and after much deliberation, I couldn't resist picking up a couple of yards of that gorgeous silk in a vibrant, luxurious rose pink - perfectly complimenting the colour of my fabulous time travelling leotard, of course. And with the soft glow of the city streetlights, a touch of Parisian magic swirling in my hair, I skipped back through time with an ache in my heart for 19th century France.
Now, you may be wondering what this has to do with December 12th? Well, this particular date was very significant! It was the night I witnessed the première of “Faust” at the Theatre Lyrique de Paris, with the most dazzling display of costume design that made my leotard loving heart sing. I’m sure you’d agree: it doesn't get any more glamorous than this! It’s a magical date that serves as a testament to how much dance and fashion have influenced each other throughout history.
And what were the ladies of London doing that December day, you ask? 12th December saw the official opening of the “London Skating Club”. Talk about fun! With a rink as glamorous as any Parisian ballroom, it must have been a sight to behold. And can you imagine the fabulous leotards all those elegant ladies must have been wearing? I'd kill to see them myself! Imagine my time travelling outfit amongst the sparkling, elegant gowns and the twinkling laughter of the club patrons!
It’s not always a full on historical trip you know. You could say I'm pretty much obsessed with history - in the world of dance and fashion at least! To celebrate the opening of the "London Skating Club", I decided to plan a small, special street ballet performance back in the 21st century. It was such fun, all the families passing by enjoyed a little peek into 19th-century style performance, and as always, it helped with the financial side of my little travelling business!
What more can I say? My dear readers, let me assure you, whether it's Paris or London, past or present, leotards always have a place on the world stage! From the delicate elegance of the ballet dancer to the rebellious, fun spirit of a skater, the leotard is a symbol of beauty and movement, celebrating femininity and individuality.
Remember, if you're a fan of dance, a lover of leotard fashion, and an explorer at heart, don't be afraid to dream of adventure. Every era holds a new story waiting to be discovered. Let us share a little piece of magic, together. I’ll catch you next month with my latest travel story – make sure to stay tuned!
P.S Don't forget my favourite mantra: "Go forth, darling readers, and rock a pink tutu with fearless confidence!”
Until next month, Emma.
