Post 733: www.pink-tutu.com
Hello my dearest tutu-loving friends! Emma here, your trusty time-traveling ballerina blogger, and I’m absolutely buzzing to share this month’s adventures with you! This month we’re hopping in my magical pink sparkling leotard and heading back to 1 January 1920.
A Time-Traveling Tutu, a Twirling Start!
This time I left my trusty pink tutu at home. The year 1920 was all about sleek lines and chic sophistication, and my usual fluffy tutus would’ve been a bit of a fashion faux pas. Instead, I’ve got my trusty sparkly leotard with a fabulous Art Deco pattern, all shimmer and geometric shapes – think the Chrysler Building, but in stretchy pink, of course!
It’s always a thrill jumping through time, but landing in 1920 was a real treat! Imagine, the roaring twenties, jazz music, flappers, and, yes, some pretty darn fabulous leotard fashion! I felt right at home, even without the full-on tulle of my regular tutu.
A Leap into Leotard History
Of course, I spent a chunk of my time exploring the world of leotard fashion back then. You wouldn't believe how different things were! Think about it, we’re used to the modern-day leotard – that stretchy, seamless miracle garment that moves with us, comes in a bazillion colours, and even has handy pockets! But back then, things were very different.
Imagine: leotards made from silk, and sometimes even velvet! You can't get away with that much silk in the middle of a triple pirouette! They weren’t stretchy or form-fitting like ours; instead, they were very, very loose. The focus wasn't about showing off the dancer's shape; it was about adding elegance and flow to their movements. And did you know leotards were called 'bodices' or even 'combinations' back then?! That was before the fabulous word ‘leotard’ took centre stage in the ballet world!
The colours were also more muted than our rainbow-bright choices today. I found lots of gorgeous black, navy blue, and white leotards – even some with exquisite hand-stitched lace trim. But bright pinks and neon greens? Well, those were definitely out! Maybe it's my personal bias, but it feels a little less expressive!
Dancing Through Time: Performance Inspiration!
Of course, no time-traveling adventure is complete without seeing a performance. It was all about ballets with grandeur, intricate sets, and lots of graceful partnering work. One particular performance of The Sleeping Beauty stole my heart. Imagine shimmering gowns, lush landscapes, and a beautiful ballerina waltzing with the Prince. It felt magical, like I was in a fairytale myself! I took lots of notes, especially on the graceful partnering steps – the princes really knew how to support their princesses, and their posture was divine!
Shop, Shop, Shop – And a Little Bit of Sewing!
Now, my fellow tututologists, a trip to a vintage fabric store is never complete without a little souvenir. This time, it was a roll of vintage black silk, as luxurious and smooth as satin! It feels so decadent, I almost don’t want to cut it. But of course, this will be the star ingredient of a fabulous new project! Imagine: a delicate, slightly fitted bodice with just the right amount of flowing drape. I plan on making it for my next performance at home, a small homage to the ballet's evolution. It's got that 1920s flair and still feels like me – with a little sprinkle of pink detailing, of course.
Onwards and Upwards – More Leotard Fashion Adventures Await!
My little pink sparkly leotard has transported me back to a fascinating time, and I’m already buzzing with ideas for my next travel. Remember, dear tutus-loving friends, if there is one thing this pink tutu blogger believes, it’s that a leotard can take you anywhere.
Till next time!
Love,
Emma xx