Blog Post No. 1234 - www.pink-tutu.com
Hello, darling tutu enthusiasts! It's Emma, your resident pink tutu enthusiast and time-traveling ballerina, and welcome to my blog where we journey through the vibrant world of leotard fashion. Today, my time-traveling tutu takes me back to a particularly captivating decade – the swinging 60s! Buckle up, my darlings, because we're taking a trip back to 10th October, 1961.
The morning air was crisp and exhilarating as I popped into my sparkling pink time-traveling leotard (it truly does have magical properties!). The first thing that hit me when I arrived in 1961 was the buzz. Everyone was dressed with such style, a feeling of confident glamour rippling through the streets. And guess what? Leotards were a key part of it all!
This trip is especially delightful, my dears, because it's an ode to the versatile leotard. While the iconic ballerina image of tutus and sleek, classic leotards already reigned, the 60s witnessed a new breed of leotard, one with a touch of playful fun and freedom.
As I strutted down the streets, my pink tutu a vision in 1961 fashion, I spotted a stunning, vibrant display at Liberty of London. There, nestled amongst floral fabrics and delicate lace, were rows of bold, bright leotards. This wasn’t your mother's ballet leotard! Think bright colours - vivid orange, lime green, shocking pink, even leopard print – with simple, striking geometric designs that hinted at a change in attitudes and sartorial trends. These leotards were ready to break out of the dance studio and into the world.
As an added bonus, a revolutionary piece of footwear had just made its debut, a game changer for any ballet-inspired ensemble. The Mary Jane flat had finally hit the scene and these simple shoes were meant to be worn with every kind of leotard, even in a classic pink tutu! The girls, or rather the ‘birds’, as they were called in 1961, paired their bold Mary Janes with bright leotards and, of course, their mini-skirts, creating a truly fashion-forward, and fun, silhouette. This combination is what I like to call the ‘60s Chic’ and it has an iconic, timeless charm, one that's very easy to recreate.
My wanderlust in this era wasn't confined to London's glamorous avenues. I ventured to a quaint village fair, nestled amidst Derbyshire countryside, just like home. Here, a youthful exuberance radiated from every stall and corner. In a tent filled with local crafts, I found a young girl diligently sewing a new leotard, its fabric a joyous floral print. This was a stark contrast to the slick, geometric designs of Liberty’s and truly gave a glimpse into the local style of leotards. Her delicate needlework, imbued with care and passion, made each stitch a tiny act of creativity. It brought to mind the true spirit of the leotard – not just a piece of attire, but an expression of individuality and artistry.
Later, as I danced under the moonlit sky to the sounds of The Beatles in a smoky, vibrant club, I noticed leotards on many a 'cool cat' there, whether it was in a fitted design tucked into skinny jeans or even a flowing, silky leotard as part of an expressive outfit, a symbol of carefree freedom. These young hearts weren't confined to rigid dance moves, instead, they danced to the beat of their own drum, and their leotards, worn with nonchalant grace, mirrored their bold individuality.
You might be thinking, how does Emma get by? Well, besides this wonderful time-travelling leotard that needs no introduction, I earn my way through life, so to speak, by performing street ballet. Imagine it – vibrant pink tutus swirling and twirling in city squares and parks! And it's actually surprising how often folks don't give a second look. But that’s OK, I get the feeling that people are so caught up in their day to day lives that they hardly notice the magical enchantment of a tutu on a city street. Sometimes a good, old fashioned dance and the joyous energy of my vibrant pink tutus makes people’s day! Who needs fame when you can make people smile? (Of course, donations for travelling funds are very welcome. I must mention the many talented local artists and crafts people in the Derbyshire countryside - their handmade leotard creations and tutu variations for the 'everywoman' really put this Derbyshire girl in a good mood!)
I like to keep things bright and fun and try and inspire everyone to be confident and embrace their own sense of fashion! So the next time you're thinking about what to wear, darling, don't be afraid to let your inner ballerina shine through with a beautiful leotard or even try the '60s Chic look! The magic of this fashion is boundless - so go forth, dear ones, embrace the whimsy and the beauty of the leotard, and have a ball doing it!
Your very own time-traveling, tutu-clad friend, Emma xx
