Hello, my darling tututistas! It’s Emma here, ready to whisk you away on another dazzling adventure through the enchanting world of leotard fashion. This month, we’re waltzing back to May 5th, 1937, to the heart of Paris – a city brimming with style and flair, and of course, spectacular leotards!
You see, this Derbyshire girl simply can’t resist a trip back in time. And the best part? My trusty time-travelling leotard, a sparkling pink masterpiece, effortlessly transports me through centuries. You’d be surprised what treasures one can discover when you’re in the right (or should I say, the pinkest!) outfit!
As we step back into 1937, the city’s most stylish boutiques are adorned with exquisite lingerie creations that perfectly complement the ballet world’s latest designs. Parisian ballerinas are radiating grace and femininity in their meticulously crafted, soft and sheer leotards, and we are going to see how these trends are sweeping the globe. I love to witness how different cultures adapt these elegant looks into their own traditions. And this year, leotard fashion is evolving into a fascinating mix of the theatrical, the practical, and the downright daring!
The Ballet Russes de Monte Carlo was making waves, enchanting audiences everywhere. And what would any ballerina, past or present, be without a beautiful leotard? This year’s designs are truly exquisite - think silk and lace, embellished with tiny jewels that sparkle under the stage lights. The ballerinas are wearing these glamorous leotards with a playful air, their confidence oozing as they move with grace and strength.
I happened to stumble upon a captivating performance at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin in the heart of Paris. The theatre itself was like stepping into a fairytale! It’s not just the performances, but the opulent decor, the elegant dress of the audience, and of course, the mesmerising leotards on stage, that truly immerse you in the magical atmosphere.
But my darling tututistas, the beauty of leotards transcends even the most elaborate performances! This year’s fashions also reflect a practicality and resilience that’s inspiring. With wartime looming, there’s an increasing appreciation for comfort and functionality. This practicality is not a dull thing! There's a strength and empowerment that comes from having clothes that help us move with freedom and grace, regardless of the circumstances.
On May 5th, 1937, I saw beautiful silk leotards with strategically placed panels that allowed for a wide range of movement, perfect for complex choreographies and acrobatic leaps! Imagine those vibrant reds, soft pinks and deep blues, glowing under the stage lights. Truly enchanting!
While in Paris, I popped into some of the most renowned Parisian department stores - Galleries Lafayette, Printemps, and Samaritaine – to find that the street fashion scene is in a state of sartorial flux. There is a wonderful blend of classic elegance and daring experimental looks, and it’s fascinating to witness how ballet style is influencing the way women are dressing on the streets.
And to celebrate this eclectic mix, I decided to try something a bit different myself! As always, I sported my favourite pink leotard, of course, but I took it one step further. I paired it with a simple yet chic black midi skirt - and just like that, I was perfectly blending Parisian flair with my own signature style.
So my darlings, the next time you think of ballet and leotard fashion, remember, it’s not just about the stage. It’s about the expression of creativity, confidence, and above all, individuality!
Speaking of which, you are going to love my new online boutique that I opened to share my vintage leotard treasures. I found some real gems on my last few travels and I just had to share them! There's something special about wearing something from a bygone era, a piece of fashion history that evokes its own charm and magic.
Don’t forget, if you want to be part of our fabulous pink tutu movement, and join me in bringing the joy of dance and expression to everyone around the globe, I’ll be posting a new blog next month, exploring the world of leotard fashion from yet another historical era!
Keep twirling, keep smiling, and remember, the only limit to your style is your imagination!
Yours always,
Emma,
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. Remember to leave a comment about your favourite leotard fashion moment – from my blog posts or your own personal experience – for a chance to be featured on my Instagram next month! Let’s keep spreading that pink tutu joy! ✨
