#LeotardHistory during 1888 09 September

Hello darlings! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood time-travelling ballerina blogger from Derbyshire! September has arrived, which means it's time for another extraordinary trip back in time. This month, I'm taking us back to the 19th century, all the way to September 9th, 1888, a date forever etched in my leotard-loving heart.

Oh, before we start, I must tell you all about my latest leotard haul! I popped into a vintage boutique last week, and they had the most incredible collection of antique dancewear. I snagged a stunningly elegant pink leotard from the late 1800s, which just screams historical charm. The detail! The craftsmanship! I can't wait to show you all when I return from this trip - I'm planning a special photoshoot with this beauty!

Anyway, back to the time travel! As usual, I'm hopping aboard my trusty pink-sparkling time travelling leotard (it really is the best for impromptu trips). I've got my trusty vintage copy of 'La Danse' under my arm - my guide to all things leotard, darling - and my ballet shoes packed and ready for impromptu pirouettes wherever we may land.

So, imagine my excitement as I arrived in 1888! Oh, my darlings, the energy of this period is truly captivating! The bustling streets of London, the intricate costumes, the elegance of the Victorian era...it's almost too much to take in. But first, a little history…

Now, back in 1888, leotards were not yet the all-conquering garment they are today. You might be surprised to learn they were primarily for men! Think of those iconic, super-tight leotard outfits you see on athletes or gymnasts - back then, they were primarily for wrestlers.

But fear not, fashionistas! While men had the first go at the leotard, it wasn't long before the world of dance embraced it. By 1888, leotards were slowly starting to make their way into the feminine dancewear sphere.

Imagine the excitement - dancers moving freely, effortlessly in a garment that hugged their lines. And oh, those glorious materials! We're talking silks, velvets, lace, and more - a far cry from the modern, sleek leotard, but equally as glamorous!

Speaking of glamorous, I happened upon a spectacular show in London, Les Sylphides, an elegant and otherworldly piece created by Michel Fokine. The ballerina wore a pale blue, ethereal costume, and it was simply magical. She danced as if she were weightless, like a bird in flight.

This wasn't just any show, darling, this was the kind of performance that brought gasps from the audience and whispers of admiration as dancers glided effortlessly across the stage. I absolutely fell in love with this ballet. What grace, what elegance, and oh, the romance of it all!

Naturally, my favourite part of time travelling isn't just witnessing the history, it's the fashion! The sheer extravagance of the late Victorian era costumes was intoxicating, each outfit more exquisite than the last. And you know me, darlings, I couldn't help but seek out the leotard inspiration!

While the men's wrestling leotards are certainly intriguing (I particularly love the velvet designs!), it was the ballet leotards that captured my eye. We're talking silk, delicate fabrics, intricate embellishments...they are truly works of art!

My little vintage heart was a-fluttering as I stumbled across a delightful little boutique specializing in dancewear. Oh, the leotards, my darlings, were to die for! Flowing sleeves, delicate lace trim, delicate pinks and blues - a fashion feast for my eyes.

This little trip really opened my eyes to the evolution of leotard fashion! And that brings me to my big question... What do you all think? How will we incorporate these historical elements into modern leotards? We're already seeing a trend towards ballet-inspired dancewear, so it's only a matter of time until we see these vintage silhouettes on the streets!

I can just picture it, darling - a dazzling pink tutu skirt over a beautifully embellished leotard. Yes, I'm sure a little touch of Victorian elegance will be making its way into contemporary dancewear - just wait and see!

I also spent some time exploring London. The bustle of the Victorian streets, the sights, the sounds...truly something special. The gaslights casting their warm glow, the hansom cabs hurrying down the cobbles, and the shops crammed full of beautiful goods, it's a world I could easily get lost in.

I found that Victorian dance fashion went beyond the stage, though! I spied some beautiful examples of fashionable, Victorian women wearing skirts that flowed like graceful, feminine ribbons. They certainly weren't afraid to express themselves, and there was a definite element of theatre in their movements.

Now, let's get real. My leotard love goes beyond the traditional ballet world, and I love spotting contemporary interpretations of dance in the everyday world. I found myself enthralled by street performers - they are masters of creativity and have the ability to captivate any audience! They even had their own style, a unique mix of modern and Victorian, blending the old with the new, which just reinforces the timelessness of the dance form!

In a little while, I will be heading to one of these street performers for inspiration, perhaps to pick up some tricks or, perhaps, even join in!

But first, dear reader, let's explore the world of leotards through the eyes of Victorian England. Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the Victorian leotard in the comments below! Let's see what the world of dance inspires us to create!

And always remember: the more tutus in the world, the merrier! So get out there, darlings, and spread the pink-tutu joy!

Love,

Emma