Hello my lovely leotard lovers! Emma here, back from another whirlwind time travel adventure. This month, my trusty pink sparkly time-travelling leotard whisked me back to 5th May, 1900! Oh, the fashion...it was truly a sight to behold!
As usual, I couldn't resist a street performance to fund my travels. Luckily, there were lots of curious onlookers fascinated by my pink tutu in this rather sedate Edwardian era! A little pirouette here, a grand jeté there - always a great way to make some pennies!
But now, on to the real reason I travel through time – to bring you, my dear readers, the hottest leotard trends from history! And this trip to the early 1900s definitely did not disappoint.
Leotard Fashion in 1900
The ladies of 1900 were all about the S-Bend silhouette, with long, flowing dresses that emphasised the bust and hips. This elegant look extended to their underwear too, with corsets being essential to achieve the perfect curve!
Leotard Designs
Leotards were definitely not the stretchy, comfy numbers we see today. The leotards worn by performers and gymnasts were usually made of thick, heavy fabrics like wool or silk, often in a single, bold colour like navy blue or black. This ensured they provided both support and a certain amount of warmth.
But oh, how I dreamed of twirling in a leotard like a little cloud! My modern tutu-loving heart longed for the more relaxed and free-flowing style of ballet attire that was just starting to emerge at the turn of the century. This was still largely a revolutionary concept back then!
The Dance World
Ballet was becoming increasingly popular in 1900, with major companies springing up across Europe and America. Although I did catch a performance at the esteemed Paris Opera Ballet, their costumes still clung quite firmly to the classical, layered tradition.
Theatrical Glamour
I also got a peek at the world of Edwardian musical theatre, and wow, were the leotard designs fabulous! Think sparkling silks, delicate embellishments, and breathtaking headpieces, perfect for wowing the crowds. Some dancers even wore tights underneath, and for me, this was a moment of absolute sartorial bliss.
The Leotard Evolution
While the world of dance was experiencing some exciting new developments, there was no way I could convince the fashion-forward ladies of 1900 to jump on the pink tutu bandwagon! Perhaps the time machine could transport me back to a little further down the road. I'm hoping I can tempt them with some beautiful ballet-inspired designs in my next stop.
Street Fashion & Performances
What's more delightful than sharing the magic of ballet with others? A little street performance, especially when decked out in a fabulous pink tutu, always draws a crowd! So, despite my little Edwardian escapade, I definitely haven't lost sight of my mission. I'll continue my tireless campaign for the pink tutu revolution! One tutu-clad pirouette at a time, baby!
*This month's "Pink-Tutu Pick" *
As a fellow ballet enthusiast, I'm absolutely smitten with the Victorian Era Ballet Tutu. Its light and fluffy design with graceful layers and intricate lace detailing is absolutely breathtaking! Think "Swan Lake" but even more whimsical, just perfect for those dreamy, ethereal performances.
This week, my inspiration will be all about Victorian Era Ballerinas and their leotards. Check out the "Leotard Inspiration Board" on our site, packed with historical photos, videos, and ideas to take you on your own stylish voyage.
Let's Keep the Leotard Fashion Flame Burning!
Until next time, my fabulous followers, let's celebrate the exquisite evolution of the leotard and all things dance fashion! Do tell me - *what is your favourite leotard era? * I can't wait to read all your wonderful comments.
Remember, if you’re inspired by leotards or just want to feel amazing in pink, grab your very own pink tutu! Don't be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina, my dear readers.
See you next month!
Emma, The Pink-Tutu Ballerina
www.pink-tutu.com
