Hello lovelies!
Welcome back to Pink Tutu, your one-stop shop for all things leotard fashion and time travel! I'm your darling Emma, bursting with excitement to share a snippet of my latest jaunt through history. This time, I landed smack-dab in the middle of May 5th, 1918 – can you imagine?!
Before we get into the nitty gritty of the era, let me just say: My trusty pink sparkly time-travelling leotard definitely got a few stares on this particular voyage. You see, 1918 was in the midst of World War One, a period of real hardship for the entire world. Everyone was a little bit serious, if you get my drift. It’s quite a juxtaposition when you've got this bold, glittery pink leotard whizzing about. But fear not! It turned out to be a truly eye-opening, colourful experience.
Now, 1918, it wasn’t a time where tutus were exactly flying off the shelves. Think of the classic images we see in films, women working hard in factories, long, practical dresses and even the odd bloomer here and there for working gals. No fluffy ballet skirts in sight, eh? It’s not surprising then that leotard fashion was a lot more modest in 1918. Imagine smooth, streamlined lines and a preference for materials like velvet and wool for a warmer, more refined look. We weren’t all about sheer, delicate fabrics yet, no no no.
So where was the leotard love, you ask? I discovered a lovely little shop tucked away in London’s theatre district. Filled with the scent of old books and dusty fabrics, this hidden gem offered what felt like a treasure trove of forgotten leotard treasures. Think leotards made of black velvet or even heavy silk in sumptuous shades of burgundy. These garments had a refined, understated air to them. The focus wasn't on showing skin, but on shaping the figure. Picture fitted tops and flowing bottoms in opulent colours – very regal and mysterious!
And for those not working on stage or in dance halls, the trend was all about elegance, ladies! Imagine a beautiful blouse tucked into a crisp black skirt. This combo made for a wonderfully polished and dignified look, fit for any woman on the move. Think about all those women going to work or serving on the war effort. Those days definitely required practicality and a touch of panache.
Talking of panache, it seems there was a dance craze hitting America at the time called the “Fox Trot”. It was a ballroom dance with moves so sensual, the people loved it, you know? Picture flapper dresses in full flow as everyone waltzed the night away. In the world of theatre and performance, I discovered ballet troupes practicing intricate movements on a stage at the London Coliseum. Imagine delicate arm movements, flowing leaps and graceful turns – all under a single spotlight! I absolutely loved watching these talented dancers put on their stunning display for those in attendance. You’ve got to imagine – it must have been pure magic to watch them, don’t you agree? The excitement was certainly buzzing.
I'm all about celebrating history and finding that sparkle even in unexpected places. Who would have thought that 1918 was ripe with its own kind of fashion magic? The elegance of that era, coupled with the excitement for movement in the air – all of it made me realise that leotards are more than just a dance garment. They reflect a moment in time, an era’s vibe, its soul.
And trust me, lovelies, as a pink-tutu enthusiast, my time-travels have shown me that a love for a stylish, well-made leotard is a feeling that travels through the decades, like a beautiful and vibrant dance through time!
Until next time, remember - a little bit of pink goes a long way! Keep your head high, wear that bright leotard and make those graceful movements in the streets – no matter what era you’re living in!
Catch you on the other side of the portal!
Love, Emma
Pink-tutu.com
