Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink-loving ballerina, Emma, back from another fabulous jaunt through time! I've got to tell you, the 10th of October 1985 was an absolute whirlwind! I was in the middle of a very energetic, neon-infused, 'Flashdance'-inspired street ballet performance, when my magical pink-sparkling leotard shimmered, the air around me crackled, and I found myself transported! Can you believe it? This time, the calendar flipped back to the 80s - a time when shoulder pads were queen and leg warmers ruled the world. I absolutely adore this era for its fashion boldness - bright colours, geometric patterns, and a distinct edge that was all about standing out.
Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of leotard fashion from that sensational decade. This was an era when the leotard was truly stepping onto the world stage, evolving beyond the realm of dance and into everyday fashion! Let's embark on a time travel tour, shall we?
Streetwear Stars in Leggings and Lycra:
My first stop was a bustling street market, buzzing with people browsing through stacks of records and vintage clothing. This was where I first felt the vibrancy of 80s leotard fashion! Leotards were everywhere, not just on dancers, but worn as stylish, everyday apparel! The designs were fantastic - geometric prints, bold colour blocking, vibrant neon colours - oh, how I love the 80s! The bold and sporty leggings that were pairing so beautifully with the leotards added a real touch of athleisure, which of course, is still all the rage today!
A World of Colourful Gym Classes:
Next, I found myself in a brightly-lit aerobics studio. The energy in this place was contagious - people were really letting loose! It was like a giant ballet class with music blasting, where everyone was dancing in their fabulous, brightly coloured leotards and leggings. It was just such a joyous spectacle! Leotards weren't just for ballet classes back then! It felt like the gym was just another dance studio, a space for unleashing your inner movement, where fashion was about self-expression and embracing comfort. The 80s were a revolution for female athletic wear, and this was a testament to that spirit.
Dancing through History:
Of course, I couldn't resist slipping into a stunning leotard, shimmering like a disco ball, to try out some classic 80s moves. I mean, the leotard was really born for dancing, so I couldn’t pass up the opportunity! You have to remember, these are the years that gifted us the dazzling artistry of Michael Jackson and the athleticism of Jane Fonda - incredible dance trends and inspirational personalities that still dominate popular culture today! I just felt so connected to this period's passion for movement, colour and that incredible, expressive confidence!
A World of Theatrical Flair:
This brings me to the ultimate leotard experience in 1985: the theatre! Oh, the magic of "Cats," "Evita" and "Phantom of the Opera." They weren’t just musicals; they were visual extravaganzas! The intricate, glittering, costume designs that adorned dancers were breathtaking - and that was all down to the iconic leotard. The 80s leotard was like a canvas, waiting to be transformed into stunning works of art. It was all about dramatic details - feathers, sequins, cutouts, and ruffles galore.
Back to the Future with a Touch of Pink:
From there, my pink-sparkling leotard twirled me back to my Derbyshire home. As I write this, I'm surrounded by sketches and inspiration, I've even picked up some gorgeous neon and black geometric print fabrics for a new leotard design, that nod to the fashion history of the 80s! I believe that fashion is about embracing history, about expressing your unique self. So what's my fashion mantra for 2023? Well, why not add a touch of 80s flair to your everyday outfits. I'm talking bold prints, vibrant colours and some truly iconic designs! Embrace those fabulous, neon shades - it's time to celebrate the legacy of the leotard - the true star of fashion through the ages!
I leave you with this question: do you remember 80s leotard fashion? What was your favourite design or style?
Remember, darlings, be bold and let your inner fashionista shine! And remember - pink is always in fashion!
Until next month!
With a final twirl and a flourish,
Emma
xx
www.pink-tutu.com
