Hello, darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your go-to blog for all things leotard and sparkly. This month, we're time travelling back to November 2033 – not too far in the future, but a fascinating period, and oh, what leotard fashion we have in store!
Remember last month when I spoke about those darling feathered boas I'd found during my 1920s jaunt? Well, hold onto your hats, because the 1930s was all about the “Happy Feet.” Yep, the era that brought us the likes of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, brought about a real burst of joyful fashion that had to be seen to be believed, and my goodness, there was some fantastic leotard action!
This time, my time travelling pink leotard took me to New York City - what a fabulous time! There were dance marathons - like real endurance challenges. Honestly, these dancers could have kept going all day in those glamorous dance studio leotards they wore. Just imagine - 24 hours of spinning, swaying, and shimmying in a sleek, stretchy leotard. Pure glamour, I tell you!
One day, I even saw a street ballet performance - so reminiscent of the performances I give back in Derbyshire - though a lot more folksy. A young man was wearing a very stylish leotard, like something a modern-day circus performer might wear, with those delightful knee-length tights! I'm convinced he’d found himself a real bargain in a vintage shop or market. The crowd was so enthralled! Everyone seemed so uplifted, despite the challenging times. It reminded me, you can wear a pink tutu on the best of days and the toughest of times – leotards are truly for everyone.
But it wasn't all just about street performances and endurance challenges, darling! There was plenty of high fashion to be found too. I absolutely adored the elegant dancewear on Broadway. The theatre was awash in those rich, dark, and daringly fashionable leotards and shimmering dresses - you can just imagine them gliding through the spotlight!
Think silk, chiffon, sequins – and those delicious dance numbers in long, flowing leotard dresses – perfect for gliding, swirling, and just exuding glamour and charm. Remember how the "Charleston" took over the world back in the '20s? Well, in the '30s, the "Lindy Hop" became a sensation, demanding even more daring and sleek leotards. Imagine the swirling, spinning energy - that's why so much of it had that smooth stretchy silk! The perfect dancewear!
And can we talk about those glorious, colorful dance costumes? A lot of red and emerald, darling - the kind of colours you’d find in a Parisian boutique. Just stunning. These ladies were definitely dressed to impress. Their costumes weren't just about style; they were designed to reflect the excitement and passion of the era - even during the depression.
To top it off, all the amazing leotard outfits in the '30s came with a beautiful sprinkle of feathers, tassels, and other little accessories. Those daring ladies really knew how to accessorize. Feathers – oh those elegant plumes – so luxurious. Tassels – oh so flirty – those sassy fringe details – just too much fun! They added so much life to their outfits! They added a touch of extravagance.
Now, darling, if you're as fascinated by leotards and history as I am, I’d urge you to check out some historical films and pictures from that era. You'll see those fantastic leotards worn by those dazzling women! And remember, darling, these women are still influencing modern leotard styles! From simple stretchy tights for ballet dancers to the glitzy costumes used in modern street performances – the ‘30s leotards have come a long way! We even see their influence in fashionable jumpsuits for the modern dancer, singer, and all sorts of other performances.
So, darling, take inspiration from the “Happy Feet” era. Wear your leotards with pride and sparkle. Embrace your inner dancer! Remember, life's too short not to have fun with leotards and make a little statement! And remember – everyone has a little inner ballet dancer.
See you all in December, with another peek into time – who knows what I'll discover then!
With all the pink love, Emma www.pink-tutu.com
