Hey lovelies!
Welcome back to my little corner of the internet! This month, I’ve been having a rather glamorous trip back in time – all the way to March 2029! Oh, my gosh, what a time to be alive (or in my case, time-travelling)! I think it’s only fitting for a blog dedicated to all things leotard that I take you on a little trip down memory lane – my way, of course!
My sparkly pink leotard has been taking me to all the most exciting places this month, from bustling London streets, where I was showing off my street ballet skills, to a totally cool theatrical performance that I won’t spoil for you yet! And yes, there was plenty of shopping, too! You know I have to stay up-to-date with all the latest leotard trends – what's a leotard enthusiast to do? 😉
The Big Event
Before I take you back to my travels, let me tell you about the highlight of the month – the biggest fashion event in leotard history, the World Leotard Championships! I mean, where else would you see the very best leotards, all under one sparkly, shimmery roof? Oh my! Think of all the creative fabrics, colours, cuts – it was leotard heaven. There was something for everyone: gorgeous classic ballet leotards, ultra-modern, statement-making dancewear with funky embellishments, and some of the most stunning leotard fashion accessories imaginable!
What was everyone wearing?
Now, it’s all about sleek lines, statement silhouettes and bold pops of colour. I even saw some fabulously stylish leotard-inspired clothing hitting the streets, even on those who don’t wear the real leotard. Who knows, maybe we'll be seeing leotard dresses at Ascot next year! I'm hoping so!
You'll find a mix of everything from minimalist leotards in chic neutrals to totally statement-making bold leotards in jewel tones with luxurious sparkle, but one thing's for sure: the focus is on comfort and functionality, because nothing is worse than an uncomfortable leotard. You'll need to be comfortable because we're all about having a good time and loving life in our leotards!
I managed to get some incredible pics for the ‘gram and I just know you guys are going to love them! I’ll be uploading my outfit posts soon – keep your eyes peeled. And hey, you're more than welcome to get inspired, try the look and get involved in your local fashion scene, you lovely lot.
Back to My Time Travel Adventures
Leotard history: The Evolution of the “Leotard”
Ok, let’s dive straight into the exciting history of the leotard. Remember, this is a blog dedicated to the leotard! Of course, we'll get deep and go back further than 2029! You have to be in the know when you talk about all the latest leotard fashions – there's always more to discover!
Did you know that Jules Léotard – yes, that Jules Léotard! - is not the man we should be thanking for the invention of the leotard? Actually, he's the man who popularized the leotard as we know it today, after wearing them in a spectacular gymnastic show at a circus. But, and here comes the shocking reveal – it was, in fact, a female seamstress – yes, a woman! - from Spain who is responsible for the first ever “leotard” design. Can you believe it? The earliest “leotard”, which dates back to 1847, was not intended for athletic purposes. You know, before leotards became such a huge trend! In 1847, it was mostly used by dancers – I mean that does make sense, right? They were all about graceful lines and showcasing movement. I’m still looking into the history of the early 19th century Spanish "leotards," because I think that the fashion back then is just begging to make a comeback! Think corseted and super frilly!
Ok, where were we? Right, back to Jules Léotard in 1859 and his awesome, flamboyant performance, which caught everyone’s attention and led to the “Leotard”, or as I like to call it – a beautiful blend of function and fashion! Now, fast forward a few decades and you have the beginning of the modern leotard: Imagine that, we now have tight-fitting, body-skimming leotards designed with Lycra, with super lightweight and breathable materials, and even beautiful, intricate embellishments and embroidery! And this is just before we head back into 2029 and discover more leotard goodness – that’s right! The story continues all through the 20th and 21st centuries.
The modern leotard – where comfort and style are blended – definitely have their roots firmly planted in the ground that those earlier Leotard versions paved! Think of them all – the tutus, tights, corsets and corsets, all the embellishments and styles. The history of the leotard is one that continues to evolve to this day and you know I can’t wait to be a part of the next generation’s innovations!
Back in 2029 – Leotards, Ballet & Everything Else
Back in March 2029, in all my glam and with a sparkly pink tutu swirling, I was off on my adventure to experience leotard fashion and the cultural scenes! There were all kinds of trends! I can’t wait to share all about them:
Ballet: Oh, the elegance of it all! The Royal Ballet were performing "Swan Lake" at the Royal Opera House. They just know how to put on a show, I mean it was truly amazing! They really pushed the boundaries of the traditional, but managed to keep that elegant ballet grace.
- Street Performances: There were SO many great performers around and it’s hard to pick a favourite. One particular group - the ‘Pink Frock Fusion’- had the most awesome combination of leotard inspired outfits combined with modern hip-hop dance moves! They're super stylish and they've definitely been inspired by leotards. My sparkly pink tutu and I took notes – it just goes to show you – leotard inspiration is everywhere.
Theatre: I managed to grab tickets for the West End debut of “A Leotard Story” – a play all about leotard fashion! The sets and costumes were simply incredible. Think a blend of vintage styles and some amazing interpretations of modern designs – beautiful!
Shopping, shopping, shopping: Well, I can’t just travel through time and not indulge in some fabulous retail therapy! Leotard shopping is just like treating yourself! And what’s a better place to do so than London’s Covent Garden! Think boutique shops with their luxurious leotards – from sleek, classic, and simple styles to all the very extra leotards that just make your heart skip a beat – you know what I'm talking about. The shops in Covent Garden have the most incredible window displays! There's one window I went into - oh my, they have some serious sequins – all shimmering under the Covent Garden lighting. The styles they showcased in the windows just took my breath away. I love the new fashion trends - it’s not all about minimalism anymore - they are so embracing the bold and glamorous!
My visit to Covent Garden was the most exciting – all the incredible leotard shops - a little paradise, it truly is.
London Street Fashion: The leotard aesthetic is just a natural part of everyday fashion here! It's like London street style embraced the comfortable and functional, and what’s more comfortable than a leotard, really? I saw some amazing styles and combinations that just show how effortlessly cool Londoners can be. Leotards have just become part of everyday fashion and that’s the most incredible thing to me!
Leotard Inspiration Everywhere!
You know, seeing leotards worn for everyday fashion, for dance performances and the theatre and then, finally, getting to the World Leotard Championships was the most exciting experience for me. This month is all about celebrating and appreciating the evolution of the Leotard. From its humble beginnings, through all the design inspirations and to its modern iterations that you just love. And I just know it will continue to inspire generations to come.
So what’s my favourite style of the month? I can’t choose, honestly! It’s a difficult task, because every single style is a gorgeous celebration of all the Leotard has become. Whether it’s the timeless ballet classic, or the more-is-more modern styles that are all the rage, or the everyday-comfort designs that just blend seamlessly with everyday fashion – they’re all perfect in their own way. It just depends on the occasion! What will you wear on your next outing, darlings? I can’t wait to see!
Don’t forget to keep an eye on this space for my **new post next month, and let’s travel together.
Until next time,
Stay beautiful and happy leotarding!
