Hello my gorgeous glitterati! It's Emma, your Derbyshire-born ballerina extraordinaire, here to whisk you away on a trip back in time to the world of leotard fashion – this time landing smack bang in 1906! This month's trip back to the past had me thrilled, because oh my, leotard style was really something back then! As you know, I love leotards of all shapes and sizes, from the vintage, classic, and oh-so-refined to the daringly modern, and this journey was an absolute dream!
Before we jump into the time machine, you absolutely must know, darling, I was blessed with the perfect attire for my time-hopping adventure - my magical, pink, sparkling leotard, complete with a full tulle tutu that is literally fit for a fairy! And what a trip! As always, I spent days prepping for my journey: watching shows, visiting museums, poring over books on vintage clothing… the whole shebang! I also, of course, hit the streets of Derby to collect some coins for my travels through some enchanting street performances. And, yes, a few passersby asked me if I was off to a fancy dress party, bless their hearts! They clearly have no idea about the real history of leotard fashion, how droll!
So, picture it… it’s 1906, May the 5th. I’ve donned my best shimmering pink leotard with its dazzling, cloud-like tutu, and I’ve touched my trusty pink time-travelling locket. A sparkly burst of light, and voila! I'm swept away to London – the hub of all things fashionable, as ever, especially when it comes to leotard fashion!
Now, 1906 – a time of corsets, bustle skirts, and the very beginning of the revolutionary flapper look! Can you imagine the sheer opulence of Victorian leotards? And how divine it would be to mix and match some contemporary pieces from our own time into the looks of the day! Just imagine a chic, flowing vintage leotard paired with a pair of show-stopping diamond encrusted stilettoes. The possibilities are practically endless!
One of the highlights of my journey was seeing the debut of a ground-breaking innovation in leotard fashion - the “Dance Dress” by Miss Gladys Jones, the original, pioneering leotard! Made of the lightest silk imaginable, it was considered scandalous, daringly chic! It fitted closely to the body and was considered absolutely revolutionary. Imagine: sleek and light, perfectly highlighting every movement with grace and poise. We still wear a version of the "Dance Dress" today! Though Miss Jones is largely forgotten today, we can truly say her iconic leotard revolutionized ballet wear – how divine is that!
Another incredible highlight of the journey was discovering how leotards weren’t just reserved for ballet. Leotards were worn for all sorts of performance, even by gentlemen! The famous music-hall comedian "The Great Vance", was known to sport his own signature leotard on stage. "A daring statement!", everyone would say, and indeed it was! A fabulous fashion icon in his day!
Of course, the world of leotard fashion wouldn't be complete without an homage to the glorious, graceful, and divine ballet. You wouldn't believe the spectacle at the Royal Opera House in London - an unforgettable performance by the incomparable Anna Pavlova, whose dance techniques were considered the absolute pinnacle of the art form. The costumes worn by Pavlova were, dare I say, an art form in themselves! Soft, flowing fabrics like silk and velvet that moved as effortlessly as Pavlova herself. They were utterly, spectacular! I couldn't help but steal a little glimpse into her dressing room… the sight of all her vintage leotards laid out - pure ballet magic!
Let's rewind back to our own time now. You must try some new ways to enjoy the vintage look – vintage leotard accessories paired with modern clothing, an oh-so-classic, elegant black vintage leotard paired with denim - the opportunities for playful vintage inspired style are boundless! Don't forget to share your outfit photos with me - hashtag #PinkTutuTimeTravels! I want to see you fabulous ladies in your most delightful vintage leotard looks!
Well, darlings, this little adventure back to 1906 has just reconfirmed my intense love for the magical world of leotards, past and present! Remember: Embrace your inner ballerina, try on some gorgeous vintage pieces, and above all, spread the joy of leotard fashion across the globe! See you next month for another sparkly time-travel escapade!
Yours always in sparkles,
Emma ✨
This post was sponsored by LeotardLover , your one-stop shop for all things leotard, from vintage finds to brand new treasures. Find your perfect leotard with LeotardLover – link in bio!
