Hello, darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing, time-travelling ballerina blogger, and welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com! This month, I'm whisking you away to the dazzling decade of the 1930s, and what a spectacular journey it's been! But before we delve into the world of leotard fashion, let me tell you about my adventures, wouldn't you like to know?
January 1st, 1935, I popped on my sparkling pink time-traveling leotard, and – whoosh! – I found myself right here in the heart of 1930s London. Now, let's get one thing straight - if you're picturing a foggy, gas lamp-lit street scene, you'd be wrong! Well, partially. It's all quite enchanting, with a certain retro chic charm I can't help but adore.
Right away, the buzz of energy drew me into the theatre district. You see, darlings, it wasn't just any ordinary night for a ballet fan like me. Today, a performance at the Royal Opera House was all I dreamt of - a glorious production of "Giselle", the story of love and loss that captured my heart as a child. Oh, what joy! Imagine the magnificent sets and those exquisite tutus! But I couldn't go empty-handed! I knew exactly where to head first - the legendary Liberty of London!
I admit, it was a bit overwhelming. So many stunning silks, chiffons, and lace… Imagine my delight! I even managed to snag the most wonderful piece of pink silk for my latest creation - a vintage-inspired tutu for my next street performance. Just wait till you see it!
As for leotard fashion, my lovelies, 1935 saw a wonderful blend of styles. Ballet costumes were a masterpiece of grace, elegance and, oh, how those dancers embodied those beautiful, feminine lines! The designs, often based on flowing fabrics and draped forms, were truly remarkable. Leotards, whether crafted from soft satin, velvet or intricate lace, added an element of sophisticated seduction. You just have to adore the attention to detail!
But it wasn't all about the theatre for me, dear readers! I made my way to a vintage haberdashery, bursting with beautiful buttons, beads, and trims. They even had the most gorgeous little pink ribbon! Oh, the possibilities are endless for my next leotard creation! The street scene also proved a whirlwind of fashion inspiration. Ladies sported stylish hats with flowing veils, and trousers were the rage!
Back home in Derbyshire, we don't quite see this blend of styles yet. There is still a strong sense of practicality and, I suppose, the Victorian aesthetic, in our clothing choices. That being said, there is a new vibrancy in the air, a move toward more flowing and feminine designs! It makes me hope that our town is on the brink of an exciting sartorial shift.
Before you leave me today, I must share one of my greatest finds: A vintage Parisian fashion magazine showcasing an ad for "The Leotard," an early sportswear brand in Paris! They made all sorts of leotards, from sleek skating styles to graceful ballet wear. It felt like history coming to life in my hands, darlings! I could picture Parisiennes dancing down the streets in those graceful outfits!
And that, darlings, is my tale for this month. From London's grand stages to Paris' vibrant streets, 1st January, 1935, was filled with exquisite style and the enduring allure of the leotard. It was truly an unforgettable time, and it inspires me to bring a bit of that enchanting spirit back to our own era! So let's spread the love of pink tutus and embrace the beautiful world of leotards, in all their elegance and joy!
Till next month,
Emma xx
