The Glamour Behind the High Kicks
By: Jayda Cockett
Since the founding of the Rockettes in 1925 by choreographer Russel Markert in St. Louis Missouri, the influential dance troupe has captivated audiences across the world with their dazzling performances, synchronized movements and their signature high kicks. People are mesmerized with their impeccable choreography in addition to their signature over the top costumes. Their costumes have become a defining element of their performances with each deceased being assaulted in their costumes. Their costumes have not only reflected trends and aesthetics of the era, but they have also encapsulated the cultural shifts and societal values of the times. The fashion evolution of the Rockettes tells a story of creativity, glamor and tradition that spans nearly a century with each year serving as a mirror to the changing times of American history and entertainment.
In their early years, the Rockettes set the stage for performance fashion with costumes that distinctly embodied the spirit of the times. The costumes embodied the essence of the roaring 1920s with ensembles that mirrored the opulence and exuberance of the jazz age. Their looks featured intricate beading adornments, fringe, and sequence that captures the light adding that essence of glamor to the audiences. These costumes complimented the theatrical flair of their performances, emphasizing their graceful movements while continuously embracing the fashion of the times. As the 1930s came around and the great depression unfolded, the Rockettes costumes became less extravagant yet still remained vibrant and uplifting. The Rockettes acted as an escape for the audience during these challenging times the world was facing.
By the 1940s, World War II had influenced the culture and patriotic expression of the time and that was very apparent within the wardrobe of the Rockettes. This period of time led to the creation of the sailor costume which emerged into a symbol of unity and patriotism. This deeply resonated with the audiences given the situation of the world at that time. The clean lines, nuptial stripes and polished details, the costume became more than a glamorous look for the Rockettes to wear on stage, it became a statement of resilience and national pride during a time of global turmoil. The consistent popularity of the sailor costume speaks volumes to its powerful symbolism that has now become a staple in the Rockettes repertoire. The sailor costume has made many appearances since the 1940s for decades to come. By the 1940s, the Rockettes were no longer just acknowledged as dancers, they had solidified their status as cultural icons and ambassadors for American entertainment
The 1950s welcomes playful and innovative designs, including the iconic and well known zebra and astronaut costume. The zebra costume was completed with a tail and neon pink heels for the whimsy elegance the costume was going for. The astronaut costume was really a tale of the times with the space race dominating the 1960s. The Rockettes donned astronaut costumes showcased their ability to remain relevant by adapting contemporary themes along with their patriotic statute of the times.
The 1970s and 1980s were a staple turning point for the Rockettes. The involvement of renowned designer Bob Mackie, who was a well known designer of the times mainly known for his work with Cher and Diana Ross, took the Rockettes costumes to another level once again. The “Dancing with Diamonds” costume, adorned with glittering embellishments, became the epitome of glamour and opulence within that era. Simultaneously the 1990s brought the “pizzazz” costume. A costume that combines bold colors and eye-catching designs that were a direct reflection of the dynamic energy of the times.
This year, the Rockettes will be celebrating 95 years of performances, with their costumes always captivating and inspiring their audience. The Rockettes costumes have become more than just fabric and design but they tell a story of innovation and artistry that have defined centuries of history. From their humble beginnings in St. Louis Missouri to a Holiday tradition in Radio City, NYC. The Rockettes have proven that their costumes and more then more performance looks. They are symbols of history, craftsmanship, cultural relevance and timeless elegance that each costume represents.
Each era of costumes worn by the Rockettes has captured the zeitgeist of American history and culture. From the roaring 20’s, to the patriotism of the 1940s, and the space age fascination of the 1960s. Looking back at each costume is a testament to the history of America and the importance of fashion as a form of storytelling that is able to bridge the past and the present. Each decade the Rockettes remind us that fashion has the ability to evoke emotions, tell stories and connect us from the past to the present. With every high kick and sparkly sequin paired with a perfectly tailored ensemble, the Rockettes continue to inspire awe to its audiences.