Hello darling Leotard Lovers! It's Emma here, and guess what? This month, I've been transported back in time! It was the most incredible journey, swirling through the swirling mists of time in my dazzling pink sparkly leotard. The magic of this sparkly pink suit whisked me back to December 12th, 1935. Isn't it exciting to imagine the world of dance back then? You've all been patiently awaiting this blog, right? You've all seen me prancing about in my fabulous pink tutus on the streets of Derbyshire - and it all makes sense now, right? You get the idea of my journey! So, off we go, to discover what the world of Leotard fashion was all about in 1935! Don't forget you can also get the details of my next public performance on my blog so come back for updates, okay, darlings?
Dancing Into The Past - 1935
As I shimmered into existence, a vintage scent of perfume and hairspray tickled my senses, and oh, those heavenly music hall melodies filled the air! I landed gracefully in the centre of London's West End. The hustle and bustle of 1935 London! Imagine - shops displaying stockings, corsets, hats and, oh my, the shoes! Everything with a charming vintage feel - from the elegant ladies in their fur coats and headbands to the cheeky gents with their trilby hats and shiny shoes!
This trip, the London Coliseum had an impressive schedule featuring "The Show Boat" with its spectacular set, lavish costumes and those unforgettable melodies. As I took in the performance, my heart did a little pirouette – the leotards! Such wonderful variations! Some with lace accents, others with delicate ribbon embroidery - just divine!
I took a peek at the backstage scene too, and what do I see, ladies? The ballerinas, all a-flutter, but instead of the bright colours of today, think classic ballet pink - but with a touch of the vintage magic of the times. Their costumes had an air of elegance and a simple yet sophisticated style, all the more enchanting for their timeless allure. The artistry of their leotards seemed to radiate the pure beauty of dance. It really was truly enchanting to see this incredible piece of fashion history unfolding right in front of me!
A Blast from the Past – What Leotards were like in 1935
Back then, most leotards, if worn by dancers at all, were either fashioned in one-piece creations with legs, like a "bodystocking" type piece - a little like those one piece ski suits they used to wear but much more stylish, or as a simple two-piece combination with shorts, the kind they use for school PE! There were even the kind that just looked like long sleeved T-shirts! All in cotton, nylon was not common in fashion then. The more formal dancing attire - a tutu or a very simple frilled costume made out of tulle - they still hadn't figured out the wonders of Spandex at this point. Oh how times have changed!
And did I mention colours? Think muted colours – pastels and cream hues. Just imagine those simple ballerina pink, cream, and blush colours - a timeless beauty all their own. They’re a classic combination!
The Changing World of Leotards – From Then Until Now
Imagine - before 1935, ballerinas had very little leotard choice and would often opt for skirts for extra cover! You’ll never see me wearing a skirt darling, except in the coldest of weather! In the following decades, from 1940 onward, leotards started appearing in ballet and dance, it really came to its own after the 1950s! And let's just say it's safe to say leotards became more daring, bolder and with much more exciting options as stretch materials became more common. They certainly brought out a whole new expression of freedom in how women wanted to wear them and perform. You can definitely feel the influence of fashion and clothing designers on the leotards that grace the stages, films and even everyday street style now.
Now, in 2023 - and how times change darling - just look around you and count how many dance, sport and yoga classes and the variety of leotard designs are on sale!
I feel such a thrill at watching how leotard styles and materials continue to evolve. There's so much creativity! I am living in the golden age of leotards!
Fashion Tip from the PastOne thing I spotted in my time travelling - a lot of 1930's women favoured using their undergarments, such as camisoles as extra layers to enhance their fashion! A camisole in a luxurious material or in a soft pink colour underneath would add that extra bit of chic - so you know what I am thinking of - if you can't get enough of leotards - think about incorporating this into your look as a special extra touch!
My Dream for the Future – A World of Pink Tutues
From my pink time travel journeys and travels around Derbyshire, it seems to me that the world needs more pink tutus! They bring joy! They make us feel good, free and happy! Don't you agree?
My goal? To make the world a little bit pinker! And a little more twirly! I want every dancer, every performer, every lady - everyone - to experience the feeling of a beautiful, pink tutu swirling around them! A soft, pink tulle whisper as you turn! Pink tutu power! It would just add such joy, darling, just think about it!
Remember my pink sparkly leotard keeps me safe in all my journeys! I keep an eye out for gorgeous fashion-forward creations - both in vintage and in modern design. When I find something spectacular, you'll see it on the next blog - a picture and the inspiration I found for it.
Thanks so much for joining me, darling! I must fly - until the next post !
Emma x x x
