Hello my darlings, and welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com! As you all know, December 12th is a big day for me because, believe it or not, it's the very same day I stepped back in time for the first time, and boy, did I choose a whopper! You wouldnāt believe the leotards in 1940!
Honestly, I was positively quivering with excitement as I zipped myself into my magical pink sparkly time-travelling leotard, which by the way is simply divine when you're about to journey back to the forties! It's got the most exquisite silver sequins, and just shimmers in the twilight glow of my dressing room mirror. This particular leotard is all mine, personally designed with help from a dear friend (who shall remain nameless, as it's a bit of a secret!). Let's just say it has an element of whimsy and practicality for my time travelling antics!
I must tell you, as a Derbyshire lass, I always had this fascination with history, especially fashion history! Who wouldnāt, with such a vibrant world to explore? So I gathered up all my vintage treasures, piled my pink tulle tutu on top, and I was off to a 1940s leotard extravaganza!
Oh, before we go any further, I can't possibly go into a full-fledged post on fashion without acknowledging my incredible, beautiful pink tulle tutu! This tutu, darling, is a real head-turner. Itās all frills and fluffy goodness, just begging to be seen. And seeing as this month is dedicated to celebrating everything pink, I just had to bring her along for this time-hopping adventure!
Now, onto those incredible 1940s leotards! In 1940, ballet costumes were, letās say, not as streamlined as they are today. Think layers upon layers of silk and tulle with an added dose of glittery embellishments - very 'grand' indeed. The style was opulent, even a tad fussy, if I'm honest, especially compared to the simplicity and elegance of our contemporary leotards.
The ballet costumes of the 1940s, with their emphasis on soft and delicate movement, really helped shaped modern-day ballet costumes! And it was truly a remarkable experience seeing such a different take on leotard style. A whole decadeās worth of styles, some so intricate, with even more exciting additions as the decade wore on.
But the biggest difference, you see, is in the fabric itself! Remember back then, materials were in short supply. They needed something strong enough to endure repeated performances yet elegant and feminine! And wouldn't you know it, it came down to one key material: Silk. Silk reigned supreme in the 40s, being a natural fabric for dancing, strong and graceful, soft and airy, the perfect pairing for flowing movements and twirling dreams. Think flowing panels, intricate details, and a delicate air about them, oh, just magical!
Just imagine, wearing such a magnificent silk leotard on stage, with the spotlights gleaming and the music soaring around you. It would certainly be an unforgettable experience. Just like my experience visiting that incredible 1940s show!
Now, one of the first places I visited in 1940 was, believe it or not, a beautiful shop in New York! And what was I hoping to see? Why, none other than a Leotard Showcase of the grandest variety. Imagine my glee when I found myself face-to-face with "Leotards of New York", a dazzling little store just bursting with silk leotards. This shop was a real gem! Itās full of shimmering satin, sparkling sequins, and beautifully intricate beading - I was absolutely gobsmacked by the beauty of it all. Just walking through that shop felt like I was walking into a dream!
But there was so much more ā The 40s was not only a golden age for theatre, but for the blossoming of a modern, practical leotard that served more than just the dancing community! I even found out that even if the wartime constraints meant there wasnāt much cotton or silk to be found, everyone embraced their ingenuity to come up with different designs that highlighted their curves and flattered their forms, using new materials, new silhouettes!
Yes, you heard me right. Leotards were on the move! I was even delighted to discover some ingenious innovations. Imagine a simple black knit leotard with just a hint of colour - a daring bit of scarlet or sapphire blue ā these leotards would be all the rage a few years down the road, during the 50s, just imagine that!
So what else is brewing on 12th December 1940, besides dazzling leotards and silk goodness? Well, you know me ā a show, a performance, or anything in the spotlight is my true love. And oh boy, do I have some good news!
Thereās a wonderful production at Sadler's Wells Theatre called The Sleeping Beauty. Now, who doesnāt love The Sleeping Beauty, a fairytale of the greatest caliber, even now in this day and age. And the performance back in 1940 is absolutely breath-taking!
Speaking of The Sleeping Beauty, I found out that they're performing at The Hippodrome Theatre in New York! Now you may not know this, but New York and its theatres are practically synonymous with "ballet". So much has changed since then ā even back then the excitement, the magic, the music, the costumes, all came together to transport you into the fantastical world of the beautiful sleeping beauty, princess Aurora!
Here's what I think. As I step back from the wonderous journey of 12th December, 1940, I see just how impactful those leotards from the 40s were! What began with opulent and elegant silk gave way to creative experimentation. Itās simply inspiring and a testimony to the beautiful world of fashion and the evolution of the simple leotard!
Of course, I just have to finish with this monthās āLeotard Lesson.ā My message is clear, ladies and gentlemen: Don't be afraid to play around with colour, style, and comfort! Every body is different and has its own way of embodying grace. Let's break down those boundaries of style, because remember, your leotard is more than just an outfit; it's an expression of your unique, fabulous, and wonderful self!
Let your leotard and tutu dance to their own beat and embrace all things sparkly, soft, and fabulous. Don't forget to stay tuned for my next monthly update on www.pink-tutu.com, and for those of you new to the blog, don't hesitate to hop over and see all the leotard adventures we have had together so far.
And until next time, dear readers, may your days be filled with pink tutu dreams!
Love and glitter,
Emma
