Hey lovelies!
Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing time travelling ballerina, back with another fabulous historical adventure. Today, we're venturing back to the glorious year of 1703, a date etched into the annals of history for many reasons, not least because of a rather famous royal birth. But before we get into that, let me introduce you to the extraordinary companion who makes all of this possible: Magic Meg!
My trusty steed is a magnificent pink-sparkling shire horse, with hooves as golden as the sun and a mane and tail that look like clouds of purest white. Her beauty is matched only by her incredible magical powers – and by her boundless enthusiasm for all things ballet! Imagine my delight when I discovered she could whisk us back through time just by saying the magic words! We both absolutely love our trips, especially as the adventures in each era are always different!
11th November, 1703: Royal Happenings and a French Court in Full Bloom
As Magic Meg trotted us into the bustling streets of London, it was a sight to behold. Cobblestone streets echoed with the clatter of horse-drawn carriages and the shouts of hawkers. While fashion wasn't quite the lavish affair it was to become later on, a dash of colour certainly existed in the dresses and ruffles.
And what better date to be in London than the 11th November, 1703? This was the very day that our beloved Queen Anne, known for her patronage of the arts, welcomed her last son to the world! The little prince, a healthy, bouncing baby boy, was immediately named Edward. Although tragically, the little prince did not live long, Queen Anne was immensely delighted with his arrival and was known for her kind and gentle nature. She loved opera, had a passion for dancing, and was often a patron to the theatre.
As for the French court, all was quiet in Versailles, yet, they were busy preparing for the extravagant and opulent ball season ahead! Ballet, much like the theatre, played a significant part in royal life, so imagine the intricate costumes, the graceful dances, and the majestic costumes!
Now, imagine this: I strutted onto the dance floor in my iconic pink tutu – quite a spectacle for these folks, I imagine! But let’s be honest, I wouldn’t be me if I wasn't a bit bold, would I? The onlookers must have been taken aback by my style! And I bet a few little pink tutus were definitely ordered that day!
Ballet Across the Globe – 11th November 1703
Let’s explore what was happening in the world of ballet on this day in history:
- Italy: The Birthplace of Ballet – In Italy, a haven for all things theatrical, ballerinas continued to refine their art. This period marked the transition between the early Baroque ballet and the more complex, expressive styles that would shape ballet’s future. In this day and age, it would be all about graceful leaps and intricate movements that told stories!
- France: The French Style Takes Hold – While Paris bustled with the preparations for the upcoming ball season, let us remember the illustrious ballet performances that were commonplace. Imagine, grand balls at the Court of Versailles, where royalty graced the stage with ballets, often involving mythical themes and breathtaking artistry. These grand productions would set the tone for French ballet’s elegant and elaborate style for decades to come!
A Little Pink Sparkle: Bringing 1703 Back to 2023
I was, of course, inspired by all this grand beauty. I have always loved how pink works with all fashion. I spent a wonderful morning rummaging around the cobbled markets in London, my pink leather rucksack full of delightful finds. Lace trim, ribbons in pastel hues, delicate embroidered flowers – oh my, they are just beautiful. I can already see these as a magnificent addition to a new Pink Tutu line! Oh, and my handbag just wouldn't fit all of the fabric I was desperate to purchase for my latest designs, but I got to keep my finds in a beautiful French brocade fabric – how luxurious! I couldn't wait to take all this inspiration home with me to Derbyshire to start making all sorts of incredible new outfits! I just know it is going to be wonderful and full of that romantic vintage style!
I'm already planning my next time travel escapade, and let me tell you, I'm ready to whisk you all on another adventure with me. Just keep checking back at www.pink-tutu.com for all the exciting news, the latest ballet fashion, and my ongoing journey to encourage everyone to embrace the beauty of a pink tutu.
And remember, darling, the most beautiful things in life are those that spark joy, so go on and embrace the pink!
Love,
Emma xo