Hello lovelies!
Emma here, back with another whirl through time, this month taking me back to a fabulous 3rd of March in 1979.
The excitement was buzzing as I zipped up my time-traveling, sparkly, pink leotard and poof – off I went! It's always a magical experience.
This time, I landed in the heart of New York City, ready to immerse myself in the dance world of that glorious era. Oh, how I adore a bit of vintage flair!
Let’s dive into some delightful dance trends of March 1979, shall we?
First off, let's talk leotards. This era was bursting with bold colours, and a playful, dynamic feel. I absolutely adored the dramatic colour combos, think bright oranges paired with deep emerald greens. Stripes, dots and graphic prints were HUGE.
Think, bright turquoise and emerald green horizontal stripes against a black base, or vivid crimson red and deep blue geometric shapes! Imagine my delight, the possibilities for layering, a pink tutu, and the chance to express your own individual style – it’s an absolute dream! And, remember, when you feel fabulous, your confidence soars!
And it wouldn't be 1979 without a healthy dose of spandex, my dears! Let's just say those skin-tight numbers were a true embodiment of freedom and movement! They offered such a sleek and sculpted look for both class and stage. I couldn't wait to get my hands on a pair, it was like finding the perfect shade of pink in a tutu sea.
My first stop was an iconic dance store in New York's West Village – it felt like walking straight into a magazine photoshoot! Imagine this, the walls were adorned with bold posters showcasing the latest ballet productions. They even had vintage leotards hanging, perfectly styled in different outfits - think a red leotard with a colourful stripe, over a matching, flowy, white skirt and colourful wrist cuffs. My love for leotards was on overdrive!
Of course, I couldn't resist getting my hands on a vintage leotard myself.
And as we explore the vibrant fashion of the 1970s, let’s talk about ballet productions, it was a time when classical traditions mixed with innovative new forms. I felt an infectious energy. And I was utterly captivated by the ballet trends I encountered during my time travel.
It was amazing to see the emergence of innovative choreography that explored a wide spectrum of emotions. The movement and music seemed to mirror the era's anxieties, and the energy of the 1970s.
I've been a little extra excited to wear this time travel find – a vibrant red, 1979 leotard. I bought it with matching black spats, to really nail that edgy 1970s vibe. I’ll be sporting it at a local arts festival tomorrow evening - the one in Bakewell. I just know I'll make quite a spectacle – it’s what I’m all about!
Let’s bring that vintage fashion inspiration to your street-style – my dears, remember, nothing is stopping you from creating your own vibrant outfits with a touch of 70s fun, and my top tip? Add a splash of pink! Whether it's a subtle pink accessory or a bold statement piece, embrace the power of colour to showcase your unique style and, of course, don’t forget to let your personality shine. It’s the ultimate embodiment of what I call ‘Pink-Tutu Chic’!
What’s next for our little pink tutu time traveling adventures? Stay tuned next month, I'll be exploring even more of the leotard fashion and street styles, this time on the shores of glamorous California!
Have a fabulously inspiring week. Lots of love, Emma XOXO
A Blast From the Past – On the Ballet Stage in March 1979.It's not all about the clothes though, the essence of leotards lies in the art they accompany, and March 1979 was bursting with creativity and cutting edge ballets. Let's delve into a few highlights.
The London's Royal Ballet was presenting a breathtaking version of "Giselle". The combination of timeless choreography and incredible performers captured the world’s hearts! And I just adored their beautiful tutus - the airy tulle with floral embroidery on a bright white under layer...divine! I just wish I could have been in the audience for this one!
Over in New York, The New York City Ballet, under the direction of the renowned George Balanchine, was bringing to life “Symphony in C” – a celebration of elegance and athleticism. Its choreography combined playful patterns with the dynamic beauty of classic ballet technique. It must have been mesmerizing!
My research, oh my goodness, what an abundance of beautiful leotards I discovered during this period.
In Paris, the French company, "Le Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris", known for its grace and refinement, was enchanting audiences with “**Le Sacre du Printemps”. Such a dramatic work! Its innovative movement vocabulary shocked and captivated in equal measure, truly a milestone in ballet. And its beautiful costumes were a revelation of simple elegance, stark black leotards on the male dancers with geometric designs – it was quite bold and it definitely left its mark!
Remember that one can create a bold and striking ensemble just with a beautiful leotard and a splash of makeup. It’s so easy!
*"Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo", *known for their humorous twists and their witty take on ballet conventions were causing quite a stir at The Edinburgh Fringe festival - a must-see if you ever get the chance to see them!
My little pink tutu heart is full, and my time travel leotard is sparkling! I have so many exciting moments still ahead in my exploration of 1979’s leotards and all those wonderful trends! But let’s keep this pink-tutu adventure alive by joining the conversation below. I just adore getting your questions and ideas – it always inspires my future journeys, and let me know how you’re styling your own Pink-Tutu chic looks!