The first modern-day circus originated in 1770.
For centuries the circus has attracted young and old, regardless of culture. One of the features that makes the circus so appealing is the fascinating costumes of the performers. Some costumes have become standard for all circuses, regardless of where they are from. Clowns are easily recognized by their costumes. The same is generally true for trapeze artists in their leotards and skintight attire.
The Early Days of the Circus
The humble origins of the circus date back thousands of years to ancient Rome. After the Roman Empire was toppled, the first traveling circuses began to emerge. These sought to take advantage of scattered audiences that used to travel to Rome for these events. These earlier circuses bear many similarities to today’s circuses. The traveling from place to place, the fanciful clothing and the excitement has not changed.
The First Costume
One piece of circus costume probably owes its origins to a French acrobat named Jules L otard. In the 1850s, he created the skintight outfit that is so popular today, not just in gyms but also in the fitness arena. L otard’s desire was for free movement as he performed his trapeze act.
The Evolution Begins
As the acts became more elaborate, so did the circus costumes. In 1884, probably the best-known name in the circus business, Ringling Brothers, entered the limelight. Back in those days, durability of the costumes was the main concern. They were generally put together by the performers themselves with what they had handy. The costumes and props were simple, with the most elaborate styles belonging to trapeze artists and acrobats.
The clown costumes, which clearly influenced those still worn today, were very basic. In fact, they often involved throwing anything together that would provide amusement. More emphasis was placed on the use of makeup. In Europe, early clowns wore tights in many performances. They gradually adopted the baggy clothing now associated with clowns.
Trapeze artists did not begin to wear tight clothing until it was developed by L otard. Over the years, the biggest change was that they became more glitzy. There was increasing emphasis on the use of sequins and glittery effects. Naturally, outfits were coordinated so the entire troupe could have the same look.
Adding the Allure
Long before it became acceptable to see women in scanty clothing, female circus performers were wearing short skirts, tights and leotards. These were meant to partially pull in customers by displaying the sexuality of women. Female animal trainers, while rare, normally wore elaborate headdresses and limited clothing.
For men, costumes ranged from leotards and sleeveless skintight vests to business suits. The costume was designed to reflect the desired image. Of course, the strongmen had to wear clothing to show off their impressive muscles. The magician had his black tuxedo or cape to help create the image of mystery.
In many cases, circus costumes were designed to represent a culture; for example, elephant riders would dress like an Indian Raja. As such, they would wear a turban with a crown in the center of the forehead. Some costumes were designed to depict a fairytale theme. In short, designs were limited only by imagination and available material.
Many outfits worn by today’s circus performers are reminiscent of earlier periods. In the 1930s, the Ringling Brothers brought in outside designers to provide costumes for its performers. As circuses became more popular, costumes became even more elaborate. Lots of frills and bows were added to keep the audience enthralled.
Modern Costumes
While still sticking to traditional skimpy and glittery costumes, modern circus performers have improved on what they wear. Footwear is now better able to manage particular surfaces, due to improved grip and traction soles. A knowledge of aerodynamics and science have resulted in the use of materials and designs to aid performers.
