Hello my lovely dancers! 🩰💖 Welcome to another month, another adventure in the magical world of pink tutus and time travel! This time, I'm taking you back to February 2nd, 1935. It was a brisk morning here in my Derbyshire cottage, but a warm feeling of excitement bubbled inside me – because, as you know, I was off to a historical dance destination! ✨
The sparkle of my trusty pink time-traveling leotard caught the sunlight filtering through my bedroom window. A deep breath and I was whisked away! This month's destination? New York City!
Now, imagine if you will, the bustling streets of the Big Apple, but a little bit…different. The iconic Empire State Building was still in its early days, the subway trains had a rumble that would send chills down your spine, and everyone was sporting outfits quite unlike what we see today. I’m talking hats with feathers, cloche hats, full skirts…it was all about a kind of elegant flapper look!
What's a time-traveling ballerina to do? Naturally, it was time for a spot of street performance! This was before the time of YouTube fame and Instagram likes, but even in those days, people seemed drawn to my dazzling pink tutu! The cheers of the New Yorkers echoed through the streets, a true delight for the senses!
The excitement continued as I ventured into the local theatres. And guess what I found? The most divine leotard exhibition! Not for the ballet (the classic tutu had not reached its peak popularity in the US then), but for the Russian Gymnasts! This group, I learned, had become wildly popular – particularly thanks to their show, which took them all over the country. Imagine it! The stage adorned with incredible lighting, the air buzzing with energy, the audience transfixed as these athletes gracefully moved in outfits so daring, yet so very beautiful, they were the pinnacle of “modern dress for gymnastics,” as one fashion article proclaimed.
Let me tell you, these leotards were magnificent! Each gymnast had their own unique style: a beautiful bodysuit made with silky, light fabrics, perfectly cut to accentuate every muscle in their gorgeous form. Imagine the perfect leotard with a sweatshirt and a beautiful velvet neck trim in vibrant shades like crimson, or jade green! Each one was finished with a stylish and elegant knee-length, stretchy knitted, colourful pant or tights. Talk about bringing movement and grace to their acts!
Speaking of tights! It seems this wasn’t quite a modern invention, as you might think. There was a surprising discovery in my fashion travels: a “tight fitting garment, knit in cotton wool, for ladies*,” that had become a huge trend – just like the *ballet shoe had a similar transformation back in the 1800s, they were worn by dancers, but became so popular, they began appearing across different areas of everyday fashion! And wouldn’t you know it – they were especially perfect for *gymnastics! I imagine, *oh the joy of putting on these perfectly fitted garments for dance training or performance – there was such a *confidence and elegance associated with their function as well as their style.
I was completely spellbound by the incredible performances, the vibrant colours and shapes of their outfits and even, the stories behind each performance! It made me realise something incredibly important - even in the 1930s, dance and performance inspired fashion, much as it continues to do today. That feeling you get when a performance, from a group or even one single dancer, hits all the right spots? That feeling is unmatched.
And the best part? After enjoying some fabulous theatre shows, I even managed to snag some vintage pieces of sportswear at a local flea market. Imagine - beautiful fabrics, from another time, waiting to be transformed. The softness of the silk against my skin was just divine, and I can’t wait to try some vintage fashion creations when I get back to my studio in Derbyshire. This was a vintage gem of a find for a fashion-loving, time-traveling ballerina, let me tell you!
So my dear dancers, as I settle back into the familiar surroundings of my cottage, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey. This trip, even more than others, really showed me how important evolution and adaptability are. From gymnasts showcasing their graceful forms, to the exciting world of new inventions like the knitting and stretchy, cotton tights, and of course the glorious outfits made with incredible craftsmanship, it just goes to show you that in the world of fashion, we are always learning!
There’s something truly special about experiencing dance fashion through the ages. It’s like looking into a kaleidoscope, each twist revealing a new story of innovation, trends, and cultural expression, all through the magic of dance! 🩰 ✨
And of course, don't forget, the goal here is simple - let's get everyone rocking pink tutus, one dance at a time! 💗💃
Stay twirling and stay fabulous, my loves! See you next month, in my next pink-tutu adventure!
With all my love,
Emma x
