Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where we explore the magical world of leotards! This month, I'm taking you on a trip back in time to the utterly fabulous 6th of June, 1983. Buckle up, buttercups, because this one's a corker!
It's been a whirlwind week of street performances in lovely little Bakewell, Derbyshire. The locals are positively enchanted by my pink tutu routines, especially my new "Twinkle Toes" number – all pirouettes and delicate footwork, culminating in a grand jeté that almost takes my sparkling pink leotard right to the sky! Those lovely Bakewell tarts, though... delicious! But back to the time-traveling fun!
This time, I decided on a spot of early '80s glamour. You know, the days of big hair, leg warmers, and everything just a little bit fabulous! And my sparkly pink time-travel leotard, designed by the delightful and incredibly talented Seamstress Rose (a little gem hidden in a tiny village just outside of Sheffield, do check out her website - you won't be disappointed!), made the perfect match for the trip. As soon as I closed my eyes, popped on my sparkly pink leotard and spun around twice, I found myself transported... not just in time, but in fashion!
My, oh my, this era! So vibrant, so bold, with the colour palette seemingly endless. I decided to start my 6th of June adventure in a dazzling little studio on the outskirts of New York City. You see, I had to get to the bottom of a rumour that had been circulating in the world of leotard enthusiasts like myself! Rumour has it that an exceptional line of dancewear was launched on this very date - and what do you know? It's absolutely true!
Meet Capezio - a legend in the leotard world! This new collection (you know how I love a fresh, vibrant design!), had everything from classic sleek black leotards (with a little flash of vibrant colour detail for an extra bit of pizzazz!), to eye-catching patterned delights in shades that could only be dreamed up by an angel in a glitter bomb factory (and trust me, I’ve met those angels!) . Think bold stripes, stunning paisley, and pops of fluorescent pink that make you want to do a pirouette with pure joy!
It's easy to see why Capezio’s designs captured the hearts (and bodies) of dancers everywhere, but I wasn’t going to just leave it there. This is Emma we're talking about, darling! So I embarked on my own mini-tour! Off to the city's ballet studios, dance classes, even a breathtaking, dazzling show at Radio City Music Hall. All eyes were on me, in my dazzling pink leotard of course, as I observed the styles, the movements, and most importantly, the energy of the era. Let’s just say the combination of leotard style, dynamic energy and, well, let's be honest, my amazing pink tutu - the magic combination was too much to resist! I even ended up joining a rehearsal of “Oklahoma!” It was a whirlwind of joyous choreography, impressive leaps and incredible singing!
The dancers all loved my sparkling pink leotard, and to be honest, I loved their wonderful ‘80s fashion choices. The leggings, the leg warmers, the amazing colour combinations – a symphony of colour and energy. A real dance and style phenomenon. It is no wonder the world was on the verge of a dance fever! It felt absolutely phenomenal, and even though it didn’t quite make me want to dust off my 80’s hairspray (my darling hairdresser would disown me, especially when it comes to a permanent perm, I don't know what the girls saw in it!) , I truly did feel that fabulous ’80s energy!
But I mustn't forget, my dear blog followers, that my heart is for tutus. This period is often overshadowed by a 'leotard-with-everything’ era. We are talking tutus worn with denim jackets, t-shirts, and the infamous leggings-and-a-sweater combination. That makes me chuckle (oh, it is all very well and good when it’s someone else wearing the pink tulle!).
My 1983 time-travel adventure taught me a few things. It is fascinating how style evolves, how fashion is so entwined with a society’s moods. While we may think a particular style is 'out', or 'in' there is a cycle to it. Fashion, like leotards, keeps evolving, inspiring and bringing back moments of joy! It’s wonderful to see those amazing designs by Capezio making a resurgence - there is something timeless about good, well-made dancewear, don’t you agree, darlings?
Of course, my heart will always be with the ultimate fashion statement - the pink tutu! But even I must admit, that ‘80s fashion had some rather lovely trends I can appreciate. The leg warmers, the leggings worn with bold leotard colours… let's face it, there is something liberating and joyful in these combinations. And a sprinkle of sparkly, neon colours can only bring smiles. Who doesn't love a touch of sunshine?
As I’m writing this, the summer is fast approaching in lovely Derbyshire. You know I love a little outdoor dancing and performance. So, if you are around, come and see me! You'll find me near the bustling marketplace, probably with a group of admirers in my pink tutu, practicing new moves to a 80's inspired playlist. My time travelling pink leotard will be tucked away ready for my next adventure in history. It is just another way of spreading a little joy in a world that could always do with more sunshine. So until next time, keep on twirling and don't forget... a little bit of pink always makes things better!
With sparkles and pirouettes, Emma xx
