The Extraordinary Costumes of Ruth St Denis

I recently came across this beautiful collection of images and couldn't resist sharing them with you. They are all of Ruth St Denis, who is considered to be one the pioneers of modern dance. She is known for combining dance with theatre and creating oriental inspired choreography. The story goes that in 1904 she saw an image of the Goddess Isis in an advert for "Egyptian Deities" cigarettes and that prompted a passion for all things exotic.

You can see that this fascination influenced not only her dances, but the clothes she wore too. Here are my favourite photographs of her and her extraordinary costumes:

I just adore this headdress. I wonder if I could get away with something similar?!

Costume 1917

I think this costume is so suited to the dynamic nature of dance. You can see it in action here.

Radha

Don't you think this dress works well in combination with her pose to portray the majesty of the peacock.

The Peacock

The first time I saw this one I actually thought it was of a statue. Doesn't the fabric drape beautifully.

Greek Veil Costume c.1920

I think this is one of the best photographs in the collection - the high contrast, the symmetry and the inviting pose...

A Burmese Solo c.1923

This one is beautifully bejeweled - I wonder how long it took to make!

Radha

Image Credits: The Denishawn Collection, New York Public Library

If I had to choose, I think the first costume from Radha is my favourite. I do have a definite thing for circle skirts.

Which of her costumes do you think is most interesting?