Hello my darling tutu-loving lovelies! It’s your favourite Derbyshire ballerina Emma, bringing you the latest from my monthly jaunt through time with my trusty sparkly pink leotard. This month, we're stepping back to 10th October 1896, just as the Victorian Era was gently fading into the dawn of the Edwardian period. Oh, the sheer elegance of it all!
Today's mission? A glimpse into the fascinating world of leotard fashion at this fascinating point in history. As you know, dear readers, I'm absolutely passionate about all things leotard, and there’s nothing quite like seeing how these exquisite garments have evolved throughout the years.
And where better to start our exploration than the stage? This October 10th, 1896 saw a rather interesting play premiering at the Theatre Royal in London called "The Children of the King." Apparently, it wasn't a huge hit, but the costumes...oh my! The costumes featured beautiful flowing gowns with a real emphasis on a form-fitting silhouette. This would be the start of a trend, darling! Just imagine the lovely flowing shapes with the dramatic collars and those gorgeously exaggerated sleeves - the Edwardian aesthetic really lent itself beautifully to leotards!
Of course, while we were witnessing the first glimpse of Edwardian elegance on the stage, the world of leotard fashion outside the theatre was still evolving at its own steady pace. Thankfully, for our benefit, I found myself in a charming Parisian atelier – I simply had to check out the latest in French leotards! In the ateliers, the era's fashion-conscious ladies were embracing what I can only describe as a "sportive" approach to leotard dressing!
Gone were the heavily structured, corset-esque silhouettes of the Victorian era. These new Edwardian leotards, darling, were much more lightweight and freeing! We’re talking form-fitting jerseys in delicate shades of pink, blue and cream, crafted from soft fabrics that allowed the wearer to move with ease. I tell you, the freedom of it was simply enchanting!
They had what I like to call the "graceful bloomers" (can you imagine!) which had all the elegance of bloomers but were far more forgiving in their shape, and you could easily slip into a dance (even street dance!) without a hitch. Then, they had "the fitted camisole" which was so versatile. It could be worn alone with a flowing skirt or even with some breeches for a more casual look. You’d find these "camisoles" made with pretty lace trimmings or even beaded designs to bring a little sparkle to everyday wear, a perfect reminder that every day could be a fashion statement.
It wasn’t all dainty colours and graceful silhouettes, my loves! These French designers, ever-so clever they are, even introduced leotards that had sparkle! Imagine my joy to find my lovely leotards that shimmered and shimmered with these new shiny fabrics that had started appearing in the fashionable circles. There was this fabric they called "Satin Duchess", oh darling it was a revelation! Such luxurious texture! A real revolution, especially as you can see how the material and texture played a key part in making dance routines and performances that much more glamorous!
Speaking of glamour, my dear, we can't forget the world of dance! This is where our 1896 adventure really starts to take off! Ballet was truly at its height during this time, and even the style of the stage itself had changed! The proscenium arch became increasingly wider, giving the dancers more space to perform - a great change if you’re planning on incorporating big twirls and pirouettes, believe me!
Did you know that the first ballerina ever to receive international acclaim? Her name is Madame Lucille Grahn! Such a pioneer! This wonderful lady was renowned for her expressive artistry and grace, her stunning leotards were legendary for their beauty. The "Grahn" leotard, as it was known in many circles, featured an elegant one-piece silhouette and it even boasted what we'd call a "built-in skirt"! A daring style, the ballet world truly revolted against this style at first as it challenged what had been thought of as traditional for ballet leotards at that time - imagine, my darlings! But you know I've always said: embrace change!
Madame Grahn’s “built-in skirt" revolution certainly sparked my inspiration for my next pink tutu creation - that much is certain! I wonder, do you think the "Grahn" would be the right name for it? Perhaps my readers could share their thoughts on what my version of the "built-in skirt" leotard could be called! Oh the possibilities!
Right, darlings, we’re running a little late as usual! Time travel and leotard exploration is very tiring! I must rush to find the nearest stage for a bit of impromptu dance. Who knows what fashionable beauties are out there in my next destination? Be sure to check back next month to follow me through time! I'll be here every month sharing my exciting finds - from glittering stage gowns to the finest leotards!
Until next time,
Love and pink tutus, Emma xx
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