Hello my darling readers! Emma here, ready to whisk you back in time with my trusty pink-sparkling leotard! This month, we're waltzing back to 11th November 1965, a date brimming with vibrant fashion and an incredible ballet premiere. As usual, I'm funding this little jaunt with some street performances – you should see the faces on those Londoners when I pirouette past with my sparkly tutu!
So, imagine it – November 1965, a crisp air hanging with the promise of frosty mornings, and London alight with the buzzing excitement of the Swinging Sixties. Now picture me, skipping down Oxford Street in a pink-flocked leotard and tulle tutu, feeling as glamorous as any model on a fashion shoot.
That's where the day began, dear reader, and believe me, my time machine certainly wasn't lacking in fashion! This morning, I decided to go for a full sixties look – a mini dress, a bold clashing colour combo, and of course, the obligatory cherry red lips. However, the iconic element of the look was the vibrant floral printed leotard I'd snagged at a vintage shop the other day. Talk about a statement piece! It was a whirlwind of floral patterns on a bright teal background, a true embodiment of the decade's love of bold prints. This little beauty felt as free and wild as the changing fashion scene itself!
After indulging in a few delectable raspberry macarons (I do love a little French flair!) I waltzed off to a fascinating show at the Sadler's Wells Theatre – and I have to tell you, the costumes were simply divine! We're talking full-length gowns dripping with shimmering sequins, the kind that truly capture the spirit of this opulent era. I just adore how those beautiful dancers were transformed into glamorous enchantresses! And what truly wowed me? It was the debut of a stunning, contemporary ballet called The Rite of Spring with its radical use of expressive movement and dramatic storytelling. The leotards and tights worn by the dancers were simply mesmerising - stark white and black, giving the performers a sense of movement, strength, and elegance. It truly reminded me of the powerful artistic currents of this period – breaking boundaries, challenging the norm and inspiring bold creativity.
Oh, and did I tell you I met a rather charming fellow from the theatre in a beautifully tailored brown suit? We spoke of dance and fashion and it turns out he was deeply fascinated by ballet, though not the typical kind – he preferred to study the leotards themselves as fashion objects, which honestly makes me smile! It just goes to show you, the love for ballet goes beyond just the art – it inspires fascinating conversations, fascinating fashion and fascinating moments in history.
Of course, no trip through the Sixties would be complete without a little retail therapy. The most beautiful, billowing gowns in rich velvets and taffetas, sleek leather coats with bold collars, and of course, my personal favourite - the brightly coloured, often geometric, mini-dresses were EVERYWHERE! But nothing could truly compete with the delightful designs of the time – the high collars, the bold colours, the playful patterns – truly a testament to how a love of fashion can become a truly creative art form.
I just knew that I needed a new leotard for my dance routine in the square this evening, so I dashed off to one of London's iconic department stores - Liberty’s. Their selection was simply phenomenal - everything from sleek and stylish cotton leotards to brightly coloured nylon and stretchy, shimmering lycra - perfect for all those amazing leaps and pirouettes.
However, after much deliberation, I finally chose a truly captivating design – a bold, neon yellow number with white geometric shapes – utterly futuristic, yet entirely feminine! With that gorgeous leotard draped around my arms, I went back to my little flat – feeling truly elated with this fabulous trip to the Sixties. I’ll leave you now with the most delightful inspiration for your next leotard purchase: bold, colourful, and fearless - just like the spirit of 1965!
I must run, dear readers, as I have an audience waiting to see me dance under the starry London night. Remember, embrace the joy of leotards and tutus, stay curious about the past and embrace the wonders of fashion that awaits in your own life! Until next time, my darlings, embrace the colour pink and remember, the world looks prettier through a tulle tutu!
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
