#LeotardHistory during 1879 03 March

Hello, fellow leotard lovers and tutu enthusiasts! Emma here, your very own time-traveling ballerina, reporting live from the sparkly depths of my magical pink leotard! This month, we're taking a trip back to a rather elegant era, the 1st of March 1879 to be precise.

Hold onto your tutus, darlings, because this journey will be a true fashion fiesta.

First things first: as usual, I had to work a little street ballet magic to fuel my time-travel adventure. A bit of pirouette this, a samba that, and – whoosh! – I was swept away to the Victorian era, dressed to the nines in my favourite, super-sparkly pink leotard. And, of course, I had my signature pink tulle tutu floating around my dainty legs, ready to wow 1879 fashionistas.

My time machine dropped me right into the middle of a bustling London street. Imagine: cobblestones under my feet, gas lamps casting a soft golden glow, and gentlemen sporting fine top hats and dapper waistcoats. Even the horses pulling carriages seemed to wear their finest harnesses – the whole scene just oozed Victorian charm!

Of course, my real interest was in the leotard fashion of the day. While my sparkling pink creation definitely stood out from the crowd, Victorian ladies had their own elegance and flair.

The era's dancewear focused on grace and flow. Think of beautifully tailored costumes that accentuated the female figure: flowing, tiered skirts, ruffled bodices with intricate lace and velvet detailing, and shoes with dainty ribbon bows.

It was, let’s be honest, very different from my typical contemporary, fitted leotards and tight tights, but in its own way, just as graceful and inspiring.

The dance world in 1879 was all about waltzes, polkas, and quadrilles, all requiring elegant, swirling movement. I imagined the grand ballrooms, women with graceful steps and sweeping skirts – such a beautiful display of artistry and poise.

But the real theatrical action lay in the London music halls, with the emergence of "variety entertainment" becoming a craze. This era, in its way, provided a space for a new style of dancer – think vaudeville acts with playful song and dance, all dressed in sparkly outfits and perhaps, some leotards under those glamorous costumes! I imagined them all in my favourite colour: pink, naturally!

Even in the Victorian era, leotards were used beneath long skirts and dresses – the forerunner of our modern day leotard-under-dress look. It wasn’t all about the tight, streamlined garments we love today. It was a time when the leotard served a functional role in providing support and comfort beneath the layers of a period outfit.

And who knows – maybe some ladies did sport the odd bolder leotard in private!

After a little waltz myself on the cobblestones (yes, the horses were rather surprised!), I stumbled upon a magnificent music hall. They were hosting a special event, celebrating the upcoming performance of one of London’s most prominent ballet troupes!

The anticipation was electric – ladies all dressed up in their most elegant dresses, gentlemen dapper in their finest suits. Even though I looked quite different in my pink time-travelling ensemble, everyone was so kind, eager to learn about my extraordinary tale! I found a friendly dance teacher and asked her for some information on ballet fashion in this era.

“Why, darling, a ballerina is only ever seen in white, the most noble and pristine colour!” she explained, with a warm smile. “With white ribbons for the most perfect, gentle twirling, and with our graceful tutus so airy, as if she has a mind of her own!”

A fascinating concept! But you know I can’t help thinking a pink tutu would have brought a touch of magical, Victorian charm to those graceful ballerinas.

My trip back to March 1879 made me realise that leotard fashion has evolved beautifully throughout time, with each era having its own distinctive grace. And remember, dear readers: the journey of leotard fashion isn’t over yet!

Every decade brings new ideas, new styles and new expressions. That’s why I keep time travelling! Every journey is a discovery – of fashion, history, and most importantly, the incredible way people express themselves through clothing!

So, embrace your leotard fashion – whether you prefer the vintage grace of Victorian dancewear or the modern sleekness of a modern leotard, let your inner ballerina shine. And don't forget – never be afraid to embrace a little pink magic, whether it's a tulle tutu or a sparkly pink leotard, a touch of pink always brings joy.

As I write this blog post back in my 21st century flat, I’m already scheming about my next adventure, the next dazzling leap into time. Until then, keep those tutus spinning and those leotards sparkling, darling!

I can’t wait to share my next trip with you – follow my journey on www.pink-tutu.com and get ready for another spectacular leap into history.

Happy Dancing!

Yours truly,

Emma
xx