Hello, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-tastic time traveller, Emma, back with another exciting instalment of Pink Tutu Travels! Today we're shimmying back to 3rd March 1986, and believe me, it's a real treat for the senses!
(This is post number 1527 on the www.pink-tutu.com website! Be sure to check out my other posts for even more fashion inspiration!)
My trusty, oh-so-sparkly, pink time-travelling leotard zipped me straight back to a world of big hair, bold colours, and iconic leotards. I swear, I landed right in the middle of a leg warmers factory explosion!
I couldn't resist slipping into a bright, neon pink leotard for this trip – the colours of the 80s are just begging for it! You know me, always on the lookout for inspiration, and oh boy, 1986 didn't disappoint. The fashion scene was bursting with bold colours and textures – everything from electric blue spandex to multi-coloured Lycra and vibrant patterns – perfect for adding a little jazz to your ballet practice.
But let's talk leotard history, shall we? You see, the 1980s were a pivotal moment for leotards. They moved beyond the classic black and white. Think rainbow hues, geometric designs, and those dazzlingly high cut necklines. Even in street fashion, leotards were creeping out of the dance studios, paired with skirts, jeans, or even over a pair of tights!
And as a bonus, think of all the fabulous leotard options in the realm of stage wear!
I found myself drawn to a little gem called “Danza Nueva”, a small boutique I stumbled upon on 5th Avenue, New York. It was a haven of glittering, beaded leotards, perfect for catching the spotlight. Those shimmering, jewel-toned designs, with their exquisite, intricately woven beadwork were truly divine. Talk about the perfect stage wear! They could make you a star, you know!
It's safe to say the leotard was having a moment, a seriously glamorous moment! But here’s a secret – I also found an adorable, fluffy pink tutu in a small dance shop in London, nestled near a traditional tea shop. They even had the fluffiest ballet shoes, you’d think they’d been plucked from a cloud! (Sadly, the owner wouldn't sell them to me for an outrageous price, such a pity.)
Speaking of London, on this particular day in March, I was lucky enough to catch a performance of “The Sleeping Beauty” at the Royal Opera House. The entire ballet was breathtaking, from the majestic costumes to the graceful movements of the dancers. I swear, I could still see the exquisite details of the dazzling costumes and that perfect tutu, twirling across the stage long after the curtain had fallen.
My time travelling travels in 1986 made me really appreciate how leotard fashion has evolved. From classic lines to vibrant colours, to all that wonderful bling, it truly was an exciting era for dancers and designers alike!
So here’s to leotards, darlings! From the classic black to the most dazzling bright pink. Whether you’re a professional ballerina or just enjoy dancing in your living room, there’s a leotard out there just waiting for you. Don’t be shy, embrace those dazzling colors, express yourself. After all, a little bit of pink sparkle goes a long way!
Now, I've gotta dash off to get my street performances ready, it’s London Fashion Week and they’ve got an awesome showcase for up and coming young designers - can you guess what I’m going to be wearing?
But before I go, please let me know what you're doing for a fabulous leotard-themed party – send me some pictures on Instagram @pinktutuemma! Maybe, just maybe, I might find myself on the guest list.
Until next time, darlings, stay sparkly!
Emma, your Pink Tutu Queen!
