Hey lovelies! Emma here, your favourite tutu-wearing time traveller, back with another instalment from the Pink-Tutu archives! It's time to pack your sparkly bags because this month, we're taking a trip back to a glorious July day in 1932 – the kind of day that could only be experienced in a pink, time-travelling leotard, of course! 😉
Now, I know what you're thinking: "1932? Doesn't that seem a little, shall we say, 'pre-tutu'?" Well, my dear readers, that's precisely where you'd be wrong! The world of leotard fashion was already in full swing back then, and you betcha, I had the best time discovering some true sartorial gems!
The day began bright and early, the sun gleaming down on my shimmering pink time-travelling leotard – the perfect ensemble for an afternoon of exploring 1932's dazzling dance scene.
The first stop on my itinerary was the hallowed halls of the Royal Opera House, where I was utterly captivated by the breathtaking performance of The Sleeping Beauty. Talk about a spectacle! The ballet dancers, a kaleidoscope of colour and grace in their shimmering costumes, took my breath away. I couldn't resist whipping out my little notebook and sketching out some of their magnificent designs, inspired by the flowing silks and romantic lines. I've already recreated some of these styles in my own studio – watch this space for the pink-ified 1932 collections, dropping very soon!
Leotard Style in the Thirties:
Did you know that in the 1930s, leotards were already making their mark as a dancewear staple, not only for ballet but also for modern dance? They were evolving from their earlier "practical" days, with dancers embracing exciting new shapes and fabrics. Think flowing sleeves, bold cut-outs, and elegant lines. It's almost as if the leotard knew it was destined for greatness!
And what was a ballet ensemble without the iconic tulle? The 1930s saw the tutu embracing a more ethereal, airy aesthetic, with dancers gracefully pirouetting in layers of delicate netting. There's a reason they call it a "fairy tale," ladies!
Back to my 1932 Adventure!
Speaking of magical days, after my Sleeping Beauty adventure, I decided to make a spontaneous trip to The Alhambra Theatre in London, hoping to catch a show or two. And boy, did I luck out! The legendary George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion, adapted from the hilarious classic novel, was in full swing, and let me tell you – it was pure theatre magic! The costumes, with their luxurious velvet fabrics and vibrant colours, added a whole other dimension to the performance, perfectly capturing the elegant glamour of the era. I even found myself taking notes for my next London street show - just you wait until you see my interpretation of "Eliza Doolittle's Transformation!"
The most incredible discovery of the day? The New Look, launched by designer Christian Dior that same year, was already causing a sensation, with its beautiful, full-skirted dresses, soft waists, and elegant, flowing silhouettes. Now, you might be thinking, "What's that got to do with leotards?" But hold on, dear reader! I saw the perfect inspiration for new, whimsical tutu styles. Just imagine, combining the flowy softness of the New Look with the whimsical lightness of tulle... Pure leotard magic, I tell you!
The Importance of Ballet Fashion:
But let's be real, it's not just about the fashion - although it is a huge part of the magic! It's about the stories these leotards tell, about the power they have to inspire and transform. Every twist, every twirl, every graceful pose - they tell a story that transcends the physical and speaks to the very soul of movement, expression, and beauty. That's why I'm so passionate about leotard fashion – it's more than just clothing; it's art.
As the sun dipped down over the Thames and my adventure drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a surge of inspiration and excitement for the future of leotard fashion. From the graceful movements of the ballet dancers at the Royal Opera House to the dazzling stage costumes at the Alhambra Theatre, from the romantic designs of the 1930s to the sleek elegance of Christian Dior's New Look - each era of leotard fashion has its own story to tell. And who knows what magic the future holds for our favourite piece of dancewear?
Don't forget to check back next month for a peek into another fabulous day in the fascinating world of leotards. And in the meantime, don't forget to strut your stuff in your favourite tutu, darling! It's time to bring the world a little more pink and twirling! 💖
With love and twirls,
Emma x
