Greetings, lovelies!
Emma here, your ever-optimistic pink tutu-clad time-traveler! As you know, it's been a whirlwind of a month, with enough costume changes and theatrical adventures to fill a whole season at the Royal Opera House. This month, though, it was 1968 that called me. Specifically, 11 November 1968. Oh, the thrill of stepping into a bygone era, especially with my trusty pink sparkling leotard!
Leotards of '68: The Golden Era of Innovation!
I must admit, landing back in '68 was like stepping onto a stage designed by a kaleidoscope! The 1960s, especially, were an era of incredible experimentation and freedom in leotard fashion. Remember when I mentioned finding an original '60s stretch Lycra leotard on my last jaunt? Well, it was all the rage in '68! The bold new materials, like nylon and stretch fabrics, allowed for new shapes, new colours, and most importantly, a whole new kind of movement.
Can you believe, darlings, that it was only a few years before 1968 that women were confined to the rather prim cotton leotards of the past? Thankfully, the revolution in fabrics was sweeping the world, and fashion designers embraced it.
Think bold blocks of colour in leotards and dance wear – think orange, turquoise, sunshine yellow. Not just one bright colour, either, but striking contrasts. They had it all – abstract geometric prints, funky polka dots, even those wonderful paisley designs that had everyone entranced. And those amazing leg warmers, too!
But you know me, darlings, nothing compares to pink! I felt positively divine strutting around the 1968 London fashion scene in my signature pink – although in a modern twist, I did have a very stylish mod mini skirt paired with it! And don't get me started on the footwear: the sleek, stylish ankle boots everyone wore – the ultimate symbol of '68 fashion, darling!
What Was On The Menu, My Dearest Readers?
Now, where to even begin?! It seems the entire world was swept up in the excitement of 1968! In London, I managed to snag some incredible front-row seats to a Royal Ballet performance – breathtaking, simply breathtaking. The refined grace of the dancers, in their crisp white tutus and fitted leotards, was a stark contrast to the wildness of the London streets that week. There was a whole underground scene bubbling, with everyone from Jimi Hendrix to the Rolling Stones in the spotlight. Talk about a clash of cultures!
After the ballet, of course, I couldn't miss the iconic fashion show at Biba! Biba was a landmark of '60s style, a beacon of experimentation. It was amazing to see the way the leotards in the show, made with sheer fabrics and bold prints, created a whole new look - feminine yet powerful, playful yet sophisticated. And those chunky platform shoes? Absolute perfection!
I even made it to Paris, where I had a most amusing encounter. Imagine me, surrounded by chic Parisians, attempting to show them the steps from a dance I'd been learning in Derbyshire! They were baffled, but it turned out they thought it was rather humorous, darlings. Who knew they hadn't discovered street dancing yet? Of course, I had to showcase a few moves from the incredible fashion shows I saw there. That much was clear - Paris loved colour. I found gorgeous velvet and satin leotards, even some amazing hand-painted silk options!
Making Memories in a Pink Tutu
Oh, I truly cannot get enough of the spirit of '68. It was an era that dared to be different, that embraced colour, expression, and innovation. They knew that the power of fashion could inspire, provoke, and change the world.
So my lovely friends, let’s draw inspiration from 1968! Don’t be afraid to embrace bold colour and play with fashion – even the most dramatic look is sure to capture attention and spread a little joy.
Now, remember, I will be returning to 1968 soon for an in-depth look at the London Ballet's costumes, but I also want to hear about your 1968 leotard memories! Let's dance about it on the comments page below! And, of course, if you’re ready for your own pink tutu journey, pop over to my new website, www.pink-tutu.com. There, you can find everything from stylish outfits to tutorials and insider secrets!
Until next time, darlings!
Yours in the pink, Emma
