#LeotardHistory during 1889 09 September

Hello darlings! Emma here, back with another dazzling delve into leotard history, straight from the pages of my time-travelling diary! This month, I’ve been whisked back to September 1889, right in the heart of Paris – and it’s been a whirlwind of beauty, fashion, and fabulous leotard inspiration!

As always, my trusty time-travelling leotard shimmered and sparkled, catching the Parisian sunshine like a thousand tiny stars. This month's pink hue is a delicate rose blush, perfect for mingling with the fashionistas at the Paris Exhibition – the famous “Exposition Universelle”!

Now, darling, imagine the excitement! This dazzling event, celebrating a century of innovation, had me swept away in a tidal wave of inspiration. From towering Eiffel Towers to ingenious engineering feats, it was a showcase of humanity’s finest creations – and believe me, leotard fashion was definitely shining bright!

This time, my explorations led me to the elegant halls of the “Salon des Beaux-Arts” - a celebration of everything beautiful and artistic. Let me tell you, the ladies of Paris knew how to make a statement! They swirled around the halls in their opulent gowns, a flurry of velvet, lace, and satin, and even then, leotards were making a subtle but noticeable appearance!

They were predominantly worn by performers - ballet dancers, gymnasts, and even acrobats. These leotards, a far cry from the sleek designs we enjoy today, were often made from thicker cotton fabrics with long sleeves and skirts – all quite restrictive compared to the movement-embracing freedom of a modern leotard! But they were nevertheless a sign of change, a step towards a new era of leotard fashion.

I even saw a lovely French gymnast gracefully swinging through the air in a striking deep purple leotard with a contrasting ivory trim, a delicate little frill framing her shoulders. The fabric was still thick, but there was something so powerful and graceful about her movements. I bet she would look utterly divine in a pretty pink tutu, don’t you think?

But let’s not forget, the heart of the Parisian artistic scene beat at the grand Opera House – and my oh my, did those ballerinas captivate! Their leotards were the very embodiment of artistry and grace, all billowing skirts and delicate ribbons. They swirled and twirled, weaving magic into every movement. It was a spectacle that would have made any leotard-lover swoon.

Now, of course, the highlight of any Parisian escapade has to be shopping. So naturally, I went a bit mad, darling, snapping up some enchanting trinkets and Parisian treasures to fill my wardrobe back in Derbyshire.

One shop I fell in love with was an emporium selling exquisite textiles, from delicate silk chiffons to luxurious brocades. Imagine my delight at discovering a treasure trove of shimmering satin fabrics, perfect for crafting my very own vintage leotards, all shimmering pink, of course!

But what is a leotard-loving time traveller without a good old performance? It simply wouldn't do to spend all this time surrounded by such glorious leotard fashion without sharing my own flair for the dramatic!

My little street show on the charmingly cobbled Parisian streets brought a burst of vibrant pink to the city. I whirled and twirled, my fluffy pink tutu swirling around me, a dazzling cloud of elegance amidst the crowds of passersby. It was sheer joy to watch the smiles spread on the faces of all the onlookers. Everyone needs a little sprinkle of pink in their lives, don’t you think?

And now, for the piece de résistance - the news from the world of leotard fashion! The Parisian ladies, inspired by the ballet performances and the elegant style of the gymnasts, are experimenting with adding delicate details and embroidery to their everyday wear. Imagine a blush pink leotard, shimmering with delicate pearl beads or a floral pattern - divine! It’s all about finding new ways to incorporate leotard styles into a woman’s everyday wardrobe. A beautiful revolution!

Now, darlings, as the air in my Parisian time machine starts to shimmer, I have to bid you adieu. I can already imagine all the magical moments that await me in the next chapter of my time-travelling adventures! But before I leave, let me remind you, dear readers, to never be afraid to embrace your own inner diva. It's time to embrace the vibrant world of leotard fashion. Every day can be a ballet!

Until next month, stay fabulous and stay pink!

Emma, x