Hello lovelies! It’s Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time traveller! I’m popping in from a sweltering Parisian summer (yes, it gets hot even in Paris!), where I've just witnessed a performance that’s truly set the leotard fashion world ablaze.
I know, I know. It's almost June, but before we hop into a sparkling leotard and dive into this dazzling date in time, I wanted to share some news!
My lovely dancers have been busy beavering away at pink-tutu.com. We’ve had a whole site refresh, making it easier to find your favourite looks, plus there’s now an incredible new section dedicated to ‘The World of Pink Tutus’. You’ll find all my historical findings here, along with styling tips and inspiration for rocking your very own pink tutu with panache. We even have a section on making your own! (Do get in touch with any questions you might have, my dears!)
Back to Paris 1905
Right, time to set the scene! This June 6th I found myself waltzing down the Champs-Élysées, the sunshine glinting off my fabulous new sparkling pink leotard – my trusty travel companion. Paris was buzzing, the cafes overflowed with chatter, and everyone was dressed to the nines. And that’s where the leotard drama comes in!
It’s not about a traditional leotard this time, but a leotard in spirit. This era is about a stunning evolution in ladies’ lingerie and the very beginnings of activewear – which I think is particularly exciting!
In 1905, corsetry is still very much a part of women's lives, but a certain liberating change is brewing. Think light, flexible cotton fabrics, practical and chic undergarments - all cleverly concealing a hidden world of ‘activewear’ potential!
And then, we come to my fabulous encounter...
The famous Parisian ballet troupe, Les Ballets Russes, had taken the stage at the Théâtre du Châtelet, and the city was agog. They had just premiered their show Le Pavillon d’Armide - and it was sensational! I managed to secure a seat front row, in my sparkling pink leotard of course! (Nobody gives me side-eye for dressing like a princess; my pink tutu presence seems to win over every audience).
It was a whole evening dedicated to elegance, beautiful costumes and spectacular dance sequences. Now, as someone with an unwavering dedication to the leotard, I saw so much more than just an elegant production! The dancers’ undergarments, a blend of freedom and style, whispered hints of the exciting future of leotards and dancewear!
Think delicate camisoles with sleek, fitted silhouettes, adorned with pretty embellishments like lace and ribbons – oh so delicate, and so very leotard-like! The ballet was practically a silent ode to the leotard, even if it didn’t quite know it yet! I even saw whispers of modern sportswear, as a couple of dancers wore loose, yet practical cotton garments that allowed for freedom of movement during their more energetic routines! I saw potential! I saw a glimmer of the leotard's amazing destiny.
Back to London!
You'd think after such an electrifying trip to Paris, I'd need a moment of respite, wouldn't you? But my dance-fuelled excitement kept me going, and I’ve landed back in London, feeling the rhythm of the city!
Right now, the biggest buzz in leotard fashion comes from London’s thriving theatrical scene. A fabulous new cabaret show is taking the West End by storm! It’s called ‘The Starlight Cabaret’, a shimmering whirlwind of glitz, glamour and, yes, amazing leotard ensembles. They’re using an extraordinary blend of dazzling silks, intricate lace and eye-catching sequins!
But this week, the pink-tutu.com team is working hard on the hottest new look. It’s called "The Butterfly Effect." A leotard inspired by the graceful flight of a butterfly – delicate, feminine and infused with sparkling pink, naturally! The leotard has just arrived from my magical costume supplier! The moment you see it, I promise, you’ll want to channel your inner ballerina, wherever you may be.
And in news from across the pond... the world of ballet in America is absolutely alive with energy. From Boston to San Francisco, ballerinas are pushing boundaries. I hear tell that the American Ballet Theatre in New York City is experimenting with contemporary choreography, where they're using bold contemporary leotards with incredible textures and fabrics - oh, I cannot wait to go and see it for myself!
Remember my loves, leotard fashion is a journey, and each journey starts with the first step, a first twirl. So, whether you’re stepping onto the stage, rocking a ballet class, or dancing in your heart, wear that pink tutu with confidence. And as for my next time travel escapade… watch this space!
Until then,
With twirling love,
Emma
