#LeotardHistory during 1916 11 November

Hey lovelies! Emma here, back with another exciting jaunt through time, this time landing on the 11th November 1916. Can you believe it’s been almost a century since the end of World War One? A rather poignant time, to be sure, but also one brimming with style. So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let's dive into the leotard history of this momentous day!

Remember, every month, I travel back in time using my magic, pink-sparkling leotard (did I mention how much I love this thing? It’s practically sentient!). It’s all thanks to my little street ballet performances – that and some savvy investments in, you guessed it, leotards! My aim is simple: to share my love for ballet, for leotards, for pink, and for inspiring the world to embrace the joy of the pink tutu. I’ll be honest, sometimes it's a mission… but one I wholeheartedly embrace.

Today’s destination was London, where the atmosphere was charged with an emotional mix of relief and sorrow, the echo of Armistice Day lingering in the air. I felt a pang of sympathy for everyone struggling to recover from the horrors of war – even me, travelling in a dazzling pink tutu amidst a sombre day. The world must have needed a touch of joy!

Anyway, London! What to wear? It was all about stylishly keeping warm. Think tweed coats with luxurious fur collars (always an extra flourish!) and velvet gloves for that extra dash of sophistication. The ladies were rocking cloche hats with feather plumes, and the gents were dapper in their suits and waistcoats, looking very handsome and formal.

But the stars of the show, you know, are always the leotards! Although they were less flamboyant than my modern-day style, leotards back then were incredibly important – they weren't just about performance; they were integral to women's athletic wear. Think gym classes, ballet lessons, and the growing trend of "physical culture" that encouraged women's athletic pursuits.

Leotards in 1916 were practical, often made from dark fabrics like navy, burgundy, or black. Think sturdy cotton or even wool for extra warmth. While these were no show-stoppers, their cut and style reflected the change in women’s lives and the increasing awareness of the feminine physique. The leotards were often long-sleeved, hugging the body and providing freedom of movement - perfect for exercises like dancing, gymnastics, and the newly popular sport of swimming.

Remember, this was a time of evolving social norms, where women’s fashion began to step away from constricting Victorian styles towards comfort and freedom. Leotards, even the more functional, practical ones, embodied this spirit. Imagine these long-sleeved, sleek garments enabling women to engage in athletics, break free from corseted outfits, and showcase their strength! A very feminist thing to do in that time.

The somber mood of the day affected how people went about their day. Theatres were bustling with activity. It was a time for the arts to uplift and heal the soul. Plays like "The Stronger" by August Strindberg, which dealt with themes of women and relationships, were proving very popular and prompting some pretty lively conversations. Even though the play premiered in 1893, it was definitely resonating with people during 1916.

Speaking of performances, let's go to Covent Garden, the heart of London’s ballet scene. Although the company was under a period of reconstruction, you could find them practising, getting ready for their upcoming show, ‘The Sleeping Beauty’. It was incredible to see dancers like Anna Pavlova in action – it felt like watching history unfold. While I couldn't actually perform on the stage myself – this was not the era for street dance battles (so much for the "Get Everyone In Pink Tutues" project… or maybe not?) – I was allowed a peek behind the scenes. Let me tell you, the costume room was a vision. Ballet costumes – long tunics with luxurious embroidery and flowing sleeves – adorned the shelves. So much attention to detail went into these incredible, graceful outfits! It reminded me that a leotard, in its own way, is a story waiting to be told – a piece of art in motion, like a dancer on stage, showcasing their incredible story and strength.

And I can't help but feel like that's what this entire post is about, isn't it? Sharing stories – stories of resilience, change, and evolution told through the elegant and powerful medium of the leotard.

Leaving the bustling city streets and that touch of historical gloom, I journeyed back to Derbyshire. That leotard I told you about – well, let's just say that travelling through time can leave a trail of sparkling dust (don't even ask me how!).

But the best thing about being a leotard aficionado and a time traveller is being able to share the story – the history – of these wonderful garments with the world. My goal – and my heart’s desire – is for everyone to have that opportunity to wear a pink tutu and express themselves! It's not just a fashion statement – it’s a declaration of freedom, creativity, and self-expression, no matter the century!

Join me again next month, lovelies! We'll be exploring a different decade and its unique leotard tales. Until then, stay sparkling!

And if you see me dancing in the streets of Derbyshire wearing a pink tutu – don't be shy, say hello! I'd love to hear your thoughts on leotards and pink tutus. And who knows, you might even inspire me for my next time-travelling escapade!