Hello darlings! Emma here, back again for another delightful journey through time. You know how much I adore a good trip through the annals of leotard fashion - I simply can’t resist a peek at the styles that captivated the world in bygone eras! And this month, my magical, sparkling pink leotard has whisked me to the 10th October 1971! Can you believe it? Nearly 50 years ago already… Time really does fly when you're having fun, doesn't it?
Oh, before I forget, don't forget to check out my other blog post all about "Pink Tutu Thursdays"! A new way to liven up the midweek. 😉 You'll find it on my website, www.pink-tutu.com. You won't be disappointed. 💖
Anyway, back to our time travel adventures! The streets are brimming with a distinctly "groovy" feel here in 1971. People are embracing freedom of expression in their clothing, and you see so much colour and interesting patterns!
Fashionable Times - The Leotard is KingMy research tells me that the 1970s saw the rise of the leotard as a garment of choice. Yes, ladies! The humble leotard, not only used for ballet, is taking centre stage and embracing everyday wear!
And believe me, these weren’t your boring black leotards either! Bold colours were all the rage - think mustard yellow, sky blue, ruby red, and all sorts of fantastic shades in between.
My fellow leotard-lovers are taking the fashion world by storm! You'd be surprised at the number of ladies and gentlemen I spotted sporting leotards as they strolled along. In fact, the whole “leotard craze” is really taking off - and the designers are having a ball with the latest fashions!
From street wear, to dancing on stage and even on the fashion runway, leotards are finding new purposes, and creating a fabulous, energetic, exciting fashion statement, that makes the modern world feel, oh so groovy! And who can deny, they are such versatile garments, so comfortable to wear, and perfect for those little “quick change” moments in the theatre - even my fellow ballet dancers have had some exciting design changes since I last journeyed back to the 70s. The freedom, comfort and functionality that comes from the modern ballet leotard makes for a happy and vibrant dancer - and they’ve come so far in terms of beautiful materials and fabulous colours and designs, too!
I actually bought an incredible floral patterned leotard myself from a little vintage shop I stumbled upon. You wouldn’t believe the lovely lady who owned the store! Her hair was in a neat little bob with bouncy curls. I told her how beautiful her hair was, and you know what, it's absolutely perfect with her retro clothing, and she said the leotard reminded her of when her daughter used to practice dance at school! You see, dancing was, and always will be, such a big part of the community, a cultural movement that connects so many people in their love of this beautiful art form!
And talking about dance… this evening, I’m seeing a performance by the celebrated Royal Ballet! Yes, ladies, the Royal Ballet is making a special visit to the Royal Opera House! And in a rare treat, they are even giving a ballet masterclass during the performance! I simply had to go and experience it! My goodness, to witness their talent and passion in such a legendary venue is a real treat for a dance enthusiast like myself. I just hope the seats in the Royal Opera House are as comfy as the seats I used to wear back in 1971!
Speaking of the Royal Opera House - I even popped into one of the local theatrical stores earlier. I can’t resist an outfit, you see! You won't believe what I found! There was an incredibly pretty leotard with a lovely soft and stretchy material that reminded me of the kind of fabric you might wear for a special performance or maybe even in your street wear. This one was deep magenta pink with beautiful silky ribbons that could be tied up on the shoulder, or across the chest in a very fashionable design. And get this – it’s one of the most stylish leotards I have ever seen!
My favourite part though is this absolutely spectacular tutu! The way they've styled the netting and the shape – the designer just gets it! This would be simply sensational in a ballet performance! My goodness! Just looking at this beautiful garment transports me straight to a dance class. Imagine that – so much fun and graceful dancing, all with a big ol' smile! It just brings out a great feeling inside, I simply love the way tutus and leotards can create such joy.
I just had to try it on - what can I say? It's a weakness of mine! And oh, it just flowed perfectly! I'm so tempted to take this little masterpiece home with me, just for my own collection. I even bought some new dance shoes today. A nice pair of pointed leather slippers that match my lovely pink tutu and, of course, my leotard! I have to look fabulous when I travel through time! 😊
Speaking of looking fabulous, I'm so tempted to treat myself to a big old chocolate ice cream from that retro café on Shaftesbury Avenue I passed this morning. They even make their own special ice creams using their grandma's recipes - it just had to be my first port of call when I arrived here. After all, we need to look good while we travel in time, and a little indulgence never hurts, right?
But alas, it's time for me to say farewell for now.
I hope my adventures inspire you to delve into the glorious world of leotards and embrace all the fabulous fashions they bring! And remember, always dress to impress, and if you have an opportunity to express yourself through the joy of movement and dance, never pass it up! A beautiful tutu and leotard will never steer you wrong, and don't forget to visit my website www.pink-tutu.com and follow me on all social media for more updates about my time travels!
Until next time, stay groovy and wear those leotards with pride!
Much love,
Emma xx
