Hello, darlings! Emma here, your trusty time-travelling ballerina from the rolling hills of Derbyshire, and it's time to embark on another pink tutu adventure! Today we’re zipping through time to June 1919, and I must tell you, my lovely readers, the world of dancewear is positively bursting with delights. Oh, how I wish I could spin back time and indulge in this glorious era's fashion!
Now, imagine a magical pink sparkling leotard that whisks you through time. I'll be honest, sometimes it's a little…sparkly, but it always gets me where I need to be! I do wish I could do more shopping back then; you can’t beat the thrill of the vintage leotard. But, for today, I’ll content myself with imagining.
As the war has just ended, the air is filled with the jubilant sounds of dancing feet – people are eager for joyous escapism. So, of course, ballet, with its grace and elegance, is thriving!
Imagine waltzing to Strauss under glittering chandeliers, or watching Isadora Duncan move like the wind - so revolutionary! It’s inspiring just to think about! The designs are simply heavenly.
What we’re seeing in June 1919 are the graceful outlines of tutus as we know them today! I mean, of course, not the big, billowing tulle, like you see at the ballet today. Instead, picture lovely short tutus of fine net or chiffon. The fabrics are light, breezy and floaty, making for the most exquisite swirling, twirling movements.
Leotards, oh darling, the leotards! You’d find the most incredible shapes and styles back then – everything from fitted designs to those with fuller, flowing skirts, making those stage entrances even more dramatic. Remember, girls, even with all this new fashion, our leotard’s purpose is still to allow full freedom of movement, right? You can’t be restricted if you want to dance with your heart and soul, and these styles certainly embodied that!
And then, oh the tights! They are becoming increasingly popular. Think silk and net, perhaps with a subtle embellishment. The key is the sheerness! They are perfect for that sleek, graceful silhouette. The perfect accessory for any dancer!
As we journey further back, let's think about the colours, darlings! You know, I'm all about pink, but the 1910s offered a dazzling array of pastel colours - creams, peaches, and even shimmering silvers.
There's a real romanticism in the air - maybe that’s what sparked the fashion? We can imagine those dancers making grand entrances with an elegant swirl of their skirts and a perfect arabesque. What a dream! We all yearn for this level of beauty in our leotards today, don’t we?
Speaking of dream dancers, Anna Pavlova was dancing to her heart's content. I was fortunate enough to meet this absolute icon on my adventures in the 20s. She even took me shopping at her favourite Paris boutique – it was like stepping into a whimsical dream! Oh, how I longed to dance beside her. It was her beauty, grace, and artistry that really captivated the world and solidified ballet as an international sensation!
But it wasn't all about graceful swirls. As in all decades, the ladies of June 1919 also wore beautiful costumes on stage. And of course, what dance is complete without fabulous feathers, ribbons, and maybe even a jewel-toned crystal? It all adds that extra magic to the dance performance.
I remember being amazed by all the details – the lace, the satin ribbons tied into gorgeous bows, the sequins… it was simply intoxicating! Every dancer needs a touch of glitter and glamour, and back in those days, there certainly was no shortage of it.
June 1919 was about celebrating beauty, freedom, and grace. It was about taking to the stage and shining with the joy of performance! As we take our little trip back, it reminds us of just how rich the world of dance is. Every era offers something magical to celebrate. And even though we've travelled further than ever with our pink tutus, that passion for the stage never fades.
I hope this peek into the past has given you some inspiration, dear readers! As we continue our monthly dance journey, don’t forget to come back and join me as we explore the colourful history of leotard fashion! It’s a whole other world waiting to be discovered, and you're right there with me, dancing all the way!
Now, before I jump off on my next pink tutu adventure, do pop by www.pink-tutu.com to read our blog! Let me know what you thought of my little escapade in June 1919!
Lots of love and pirouettes,
Emma x
PS: My dear readers, if you'd like to learn more about the dancers, designers and shows of June 1919, visit www.pink-tutu.com. We'll delve into some interesting facts you can share with friends!
