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Wonderful true vintage performance leotard by Skin Tight, likely dating from the 1960s.
This striking piece is made from bright aqua/turquoise 100% nylon all-way stretch fabric and is heavily embellished with metallic gold sequins arranged in elaborate scrolling, leaf and flourish patterns across the bodice and long sleeves.
The dramatic styling is strongly associated with mid-century showgirl, nightclub, dance, skating, theatrical and stage performance costumes. Its fitted silhouette, metallic sequin work and vivid aqua coloring would have been designed to catch the light beautifully during movement and performance.
The original woven Skin Tight label remains attached, along with the vintage fiber-content label stating 100% Nylon, All Way Stretch, Made in USA.
Maker History: This leotard is marked Cambridge / Skin Tight and 100% Nylon All-Way Stretch. Period advertising documents Cambridge Ltd. of Columbus, Ohio as a division of Gilbert Manufacturing Corporation and a manufacturer of stretch athletic and performance garments during the 1960s. By 1966 the company specifically advertised 100% stretch-nylon garments and noted that it produced gymnastics, swimming and exercise wear in addition to competition apparel.
This example has been extensively embellished with metallic gold sequins in an elaborate scrolling stage pattern. The visible stitching on the interior suggests the decoration was applied to the completed stretch garment, possibly as a custom performance costume. Its exact performer or venue is unknown.
Details:
* Brand: Skin Tight
* Vintage circa 1950s–1960s
* Made in USA
* Aqua / turquoise blue
* Metallic gold sequin embellishment
* Long sleeves
* Scoop neckline
* One-piece leotard / bodysuit
* 100% nylon
* All-way stretch construction
* Elaborate hand-applied style sequin pattern
* Mid-century showgirl / dance / stagewear aesthetic
Measurements:
Please refer closely to the measurement photographs. Approximate flat measurements include:
* Shoulder/neckline to crotch: approx. 20–21”
* Across torso/chest: approx. 13–14” flat
* Additional sleeve and body measurements shown in photos
Please keep in mind that this garment was made from highly stretchable performance fabric, so the flat measurements are considerably smaller than the intended worn measurements.
Condition:
Pre-owned vintage condition with age and performance-related wear. There are loose threads, some seam wear, and areas where sequins appear loose, missing or tarnished from age. The fabric and embellishments show expected signs of vintage use and storage. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the condition description.
A fantastic and unusual surviving piece of mid-century American performance wear, perfect for a vintage costume collection, burlesque/showgirl archive, dance memorabilia collection, theatrical wardrobe, display, photography or study.
