Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, my darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here with post number 702 from my pink-tutu.com blog, straight from the shimmering time-travelling leotard archives. Today we’re dipping our toes (and tutus!) into a glorious year - June 1917! I bet you’re wondering what secrets lie in this fascinating era, and let me tell you, dear readers, the fashion scene was a truly dazzling spectacle, just like my own wardrobe.
*(Let’s have a round of applause for the magnificent, dazzling and very special sparkle-effect leotard I'm wearing today! A new find from the 1910s!) *
You know I'm all about the sparkle and twirls, but let’s be serious for a moment: 1917 wasn't just about fabulous fashion. It was the middle of the First World War, a time of sacrifice and strength. And how did our amazing world of leotards and dance wear react? Why, by getting involved, of course!
A Little History Lesson in Pink (with Glitter, Obviously)1917 saw a significant change in the dance world – it was a time when leotards went from the studio to the stage, and onto the battlefields! You see, with all the fellas off fighting, the ladies had to step up. Not only were they taking over the factory jobs (quite fab, wouldn't you agree?), but also finding new ways to contribute to the war effort, and ballet wasn’t going to be left behind!
Think of those iconic posters of women working in factories or helping with war efforts. Now imagine them in a sassy little leotard (maybe not quite pink!) but you get the picture. The world of dance was all about "Keeping the Spirit Up!" So they joined the circus, did vaudeville, entertained the troops in the hospitals, and kept spirits high with a whirl of petticoats and leotards! It was a magnificent show of solidarity and grace.
What Was Leotard Fashion Looking Like Back Then?In June 1917, we’re still seeing the graceful influences of the Edwardian era with their elegant lines, soft fabrics and luxurious trimmings, and these were influencing the fashion of dancewear!
Imagine silky chiffon leotards in delicate pastel shades, shimmering with beaded accents. Maybe even some beautifully embellished tunics, for a touch of vintage drama, and to add that feminine touch - after all, the silhouette still clung to the feminine ideals of the day!
For the less formal performances (like those factory fundraisers, perhaps!) we might find ourselves wearing a leotard in a more practical cotton blend, perhaps a navy blue or burgundy, just a touch of sparkle for those stage-ready moments!
Time for Some Retail TherapyThis week I ventured into London’s bustling streets, looking for some 1917 fashion inspiration. You’d be amazed, but the Victorians, the Edwardians and the roaring 20s (all my favourite eras) are having quite the fashion renaissance these days, and the retro-inspired shops in London are bursting with fabulousness. I came across the most charming little store on the Kings Road, just bursting with fabulous fabrics, and oh, those trims, you wouldn’t believe it! It’s called ‘The Vintage Spool’, and I shall be telling you all about my finds in my next post (after all, this leotard just has to be the star of the show!).
But for now, let’s talk dance and shows!
It was the dawn of modern ballet in 1917!
With Diaghilev’s Ballet Russes bringing their vibrant choreography and exotic designs to a global audience. And what did this wonderful troupe wear? Yes, leotards - some even more daring, bold, and colorful! I can only dream of experiencing this firsthand in my sparkling leotard.
Think dazzling leotards that could be considered truly groundbreaking for their time: bold jewel tones, luxurious fabrics like velvet and brocade, all brought together with innovative designs. We’re talking costumes that dared to be different and absolutely breathtaking. Imagine shimmering silks that practically dance in the spotlight. Oh, I wish I could turn back the hands of time and experience it for myself, maybe even in a daring design that could make this sparkling leotard look plain!
I have a date with a delightful chap named Edward at a vintage dance theatre in the evening. I must hurry along to finish my dressing routine, but let me know your thoughts about 1917's leotard fashion!
Do you have a favourite dancewear era? Let me know!
Until next time, my little lovelies! And always remember: Pink is power. And it always looks fabulous with a tutu!
Follow Emma's adventures on her blog at www.pink-tutu.com
P.S.: Please don’t forget to support me in my endeavours, I need to keep my little sparkle-time-travelling leotard in good condition and ready for its next adventure.
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Let's Dance!