Hello darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing time-traveller, Emma, back with another whirlwind of a journey through leotard history.
This month, I’m dipping into the elegant and intriguing world of January 1st, 1913. Can you believe it’s been over a century since that date?! It makes you feel old, doesn’t it?
But enough with the reminiscing, I'm here to talk about fashion! Today’s theme? Leotards of the Past, Present and Future – with a serious pink tutu twist!
My Outfit Today:
Of course, I couldn’t have journeyed back in time without my favourite outfit – a dazzling, sparkly, hot-pink leotard, complete with a magnificent, flowing tulle tutu that practically shimmered under the gaslights of 1913 London! (I must have made quite a splash at the local park – let’s just say a few ladies seemed a little shocked by my arrival!)
London in 1913:
Speaking of London, I had to do some sightseeing, naturally. I was amazed by how vibrant and bustling London was, even back then. The streets were alive with horsedrawn carriages and pedestrians all in their beautiful outfits. There was such an energy in the air!
And now, to get to the juicy stuff: Leotard fashion in 1913.
Leotards weren't quite mainstream yet – no, we’re talking The Era of the Bodice and the Dress. It was the period when women were practically enveloped in layers of silk and lace! This was a very feminine era, all about creating a graceful, ethereal silhouette. But let me tell you – under those layers of frills, the women had some fantastic underpinnings.
The Leotard Underneath
Under their fancy dresses, you might find a little surprise: the leotard! The forerunner to our beloved garment wasn’t quite the leotard as we know it. Think *the “corset”, or "combination undergarment". * They provided a little support for their flowing dresses. Some were knitted and some were even made from silk!
But let’s be honest, darling, it’s not quite the oomph and the freedom of the modern leotard. (Especially one covered in glitter, am I right?)
But That Wasn't All
Now, here's where things get REALLY interesting:
In the realm of performing arts, I found a little spark of inspiration. It's all about ballet, darling. I mean, even then, it was one of the most mesmerizing performance art forms.
On this date, the very famous Pavlova, a true pioneer of ballet, is touring around the globe! Oh my goodness, talk about glamorous! She has inspired countless dancers around the world with her innovative and beautiful style. This means her costumes are quite the statement, too.
As always, ballet embraces artistic liberty, right? Even back in 1913, the costumes are made to enhance their movements and stories. You find plenty of tunics and draped silks (very Grecian-esque), designed to be both flowy and sexy. I can already imagine myself in one, gliding across a stage, all pinks and sparkle!
Modern Leotard Glamour:
And just like that, I’m catapulted back to my present time (wearing my glittery pink leotard, of course). It's amazing how much the world of leotards has changed since 1913, isn't it?
From those early undergarments, the leotard has truly transformed into its own distinct and vibrant fashion statement! Today, the leotard is everywhere. Ballet, of course, but it's now also firmly entrenched in sportswear, even everyday wear. You see leotards worn in gym classes, yoga studios, even on the runway! It truly has become the versatile and glamorous garment it is today.
But I still think it’s missing something. You guessed it: More Pink Tutues!!
Why do you think no one has combined pink tutus and leotards with modern style, like sportswear or for street fashion? I mean, it’s the most fabulously fun and girly outfit, right? I have already put together a couple of styles. Think leather jacket and a fluffy pink tutu, and a leotard worn with denim jeans or under a sleek and sophisticated blazer.
I am putting it out there: It’s a Pink-Tutu Revolution.
Join me in making pink tutus the new everyday outfit! Share your thoughts in the comments. What do you think of pink tutus for everyday fashion?
Remember to subscribe to my website for more time-traveling adventures and leotard fashion tips!
And until next time, darlings, Keep dancing!
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
