#LeotardHistory during 1918 06 June

Hello darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveler, and welcome back to my monthly adventures in the fascinating world of leotard fashion! Today, I’m whisking you off to the 6th of June, 1918. As you know, history is my passion and with my trusty, sparkly pink time-travelling leotard, I'm able to jump through time and bring you the very best of leotard history - all while sporting the most fabulous pink tutus, of course!

This month, our travels take us to the heart of World War I. I must confess, despite the world being in turmoil, the spirit of fashion continues to flourish - and it’s in the world of leotard fashion that I find the most captivating change.

As always, the street ballet performances I’ve been doing are helping to keep my travel fund ticking over and today, after a delightful morning routine (including, of course, a lovely ballet class with a group of fellow dancers), I'm ready to embark on another exciting adventure!

First, a little about my outfit: my trusty sparkly pink time travel leotard is today complemented by a delightfully delicate tulle tutu in the palest shade of pink imaginable - practically white! To match the mood of this historically significant year, I've added a subtle embellishment - a delicate satin bow in a shade of pale lavender, a colour that seems to reflect the quiet heroism and resilience of this time.

After stepping into the magic of my leotard and swirling into a time-traveling ballet twirl, I find myself in the vibrant city of London. Now, even during a war, you wouldn't think for a moment that London would slow down on style - and that, darlings, is why it's my favourite place to travel.

Here's a peek at the captivating leotard fashion of the time!

The 1910s brought about significant changes in leotard design, inspired in part by the growing popularity of athleticism, a focus on freedom of movement, and the emerging fashion for simplified, streamlined designs.

Imagine the streets of London - you've got soldiers in their military attire, civilians busy about their day, and yet amidst this bustling atmosphere, a sense of refinement persists in the way women are dressed. The leotards, now being made in beautiful silks, chiffons, and satins, became synonymous with elegance.

A Spotlight on Leotards and Corsets: What surprised me is the evolving relationship between the leotard and the corset. We often think of the corset as something meant to constrict, but here in 1918, the leotard actually helps to complement the corset!

In some styles, the leotard acts as a sort of ‘undershirt’ to the corset. The corset is then cinched tight, creating a slender waistline while the leotard, worn underneath, adds a layer of comfort and helps to manage any chafing or pressure points.

The Art of Versatility: Leotards for Leisure & Ballet:

This period sees the emergence of leotards for leisure as well as dance! As an embodiment of freedom, these leotards are often worn beneath blouses and dresses - perfect for gardening, cycling, or even, as you'll find out shortly, attending a play.

Color Trends: You'd think, in the middle of a world war, colours might be more somber. However, not so much with leotards. In London, they were a splash of joyous color.

Imagine, ladies, a soft blush pink worn beneath a white cotton blouse for a jaunty summer walk in the park, or a sparkling deep sapphire for an evening at the theatre - quite chic, isn’t it?

The Ballet Connection: The Leotard as a Stage-Ready Symbol:

The connection between ballet and the evolution of the leotard is undeniably strong, as dancers sought attire that provided both support and movement freedom. During my time travelling, I've seen a beautiful evolution from those earlier "practice dresses" with their loose skirts, and I find myself marveling at the beautifully form-fitting leotards that define the female form while also offering complete flexibility for elegant movement.

Now, it wouldn't be a Pink Tutu Travels blog post without some inside scoops, wouldn’t it?

Let’s get this fashion story flowing!

A Leotard Fashion Trip to the Theatre!

Today's exciting excursion takes us to the heart of London's theatre scene, and I'm dressed to the nines! You wouldn’t believe it, but the first public performance of “The Barretts of Wimpole Street” by Rudolf Besier was only premiered last year, in 1917. As a history enthusiast, and of course, a ballet fashion devotee, I simply had to see this production.

As you can imagine, this play is full of glamour and intrigue - and my favourite part, without a doubt, is the exquisite costumes worn by the women. Think lavish silk blouses paired with chic and flattering leotards, their sleek forms perfectly highlighted beneath sheer flowing fabrics. You can't help but be mesmerized by the feminine grace of it all!

The World of Leotard Shopping:

Just a hop and a skip away from the theatre, my dear readers, lies a delightful shop that calls itself “La Mode.” Filled with luxurious silks, laces, and yes, my favourite find – a delightful selection of exquisite leotards in a rainbow of colors, this little shop is a must-visit for anyone interested in this vibrant and exciting style.

London in a Leotard Dream!

I found the whole day utterly enchanting. The energy of London, even amidst wartime, is electric - the spirit of freedom and expression is alive in the air, and for me, it’s felt particularly strong through the lens of leotard fashion! You see, darlings, London’s vibrant fashion scene always draws me back here to this time period, even more so than to the grand, elegant court periods of history. This time in fashion is one of exciting change.

So much to discover here - every turn is a discovery. This is a city that truly breathes leotard fashion and reminds us of the joy of expression and the empowering elegance of a beautifully crafted leotard. I found myself feeling quite inspired - not only by the elegance and style of these leotards, but also by the creative women I saw rocking them, who in the midst of the war, managed to bring out the most dazzling of styles.

It’s Time To Say Adieu:

It's time for me to bid you a fond farewell for now. My heart, you see, is already soaring with excitement about next month’s journey. Until then, I urge you, my beloved readers, to don your favourite pink tutu (you can always purchase one in your preferred shade from my pink-tutu.com online shop) and twirl your worries away.

I can't wait to share the magic of leotard fashion with you again next month!

With love and twirls,

Emma xx

P.S: Please feel free to share your thoughts, stories and any fashion adventures of your own in the comment section below! You can also share your #pinktututravels pictures on my blog and my social media channels! Let’s bring this trend to life and bring some pink into this world, my darlings!