Post #574
Hello darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller! I'm back from another magical adventure, this time to the year 1708! I've got some absolutely fab stories to tell, as well as a few extra sequins to add to my ever-growing collection in my trusty leather rucksack. 🎒
It's funny, when people ask about my job (which is "professional pink tutu wearer" – I have a business card, you know) – they usually say, "But you don't actually travel through time!" Well, let me tell you, dear reader, they're absolutely wrong! How else do you think I end up with a 300-year-old ballet shoe in my collection, hmm? 🤫
Anyway, on the 10th of October, 1708, I was right in the heart of London! My magical, sparkling shire, Meg, who's as pink as a candy floss sunset and boasts hooves of gold, is such a sweetie! We glided through the cobblestone streets with nary a hitch. It was like we were in a painting by Canaletto, only with the added sparkle of Meg's mane and tail.
I love the contrast between the timeless elegance of the cobbled streets and the incredible fashion of the era. The women were all dressed in lavish brocade and lace – quite the change from our ballet outfits! Oh, and have you ever seen so many powdered wigs? I wouldn't be surprised if it caused a whole new fashion trend! I tried to blend in (as much as a pink tutu can blend in!), but naturally, it didn't go down well! People gasped, they stared – the poor horses seemed bewildered! 😅
Speaking of horses, the whole world of equestrian sport was flourishing in 1708. Just imagine, races with beautiful, sleek thoroughbreds and opulent carriages rolling along the smooth road. It must have been glorious to see! Sadly, not even my most powerful, positive, pink aura could convince anyone to swap their steeds for a tutu-wearing, time-travelling ballet dancer! 😜
Now, you're probably wondering, what was happening in the ballet world on the 10th of October 1708? Well, this is when things get truly fascinating.
From The Royal Ballet to... Balls!
You might not know this, darlings, but the 18th century was actually a crucial time for ballet, particularly in France! That's right, France had its own incredible dance scene even then. Now, I won't go into all the complex French dance steps - those are for another blog post! 🇫🇷
Back then, the Académie Royale de Danse was flourishing, teaching graceful ballerinas everything from 'bourrées' (the delightful step with a bounce) to 'chassés' (quick and dynamic, a perfect way to avoid clumsy footwork!). The dancing wasn't always staged on a formal, theatric stage, either! Think of elegant, opulent ballrooms, with music playing, and gentlemen and ladies twirling with elegance. Just like in the waltzing scene of "A Christmas Carol!"
Oh, and while I was there, I happened to see an incredible spectacle – a dance troupe in the heart of Paris, showcasing some absolutely stunning, theatrical dances. I was entranced! Their costuming was a mix of flamboyant Baroque-style robes with touches of what we'd call 'costumes' today, but let's say they'd certainly spark a new fashion trend with their daring cuts and splashes of colour. They were certainly moving to a beat. Just picture the exquisite beauty of ballet and the grandeur of those royal courts and you'll see just why it all felt like magic to me. 🪄
You know what else caught my eye? The music! I got the feeling that while 1708 might not have seen our 'classical' music in full swing, it was a time of pure artistry. They had their instruments – violins, flutes, and harps – making wonderful melodies that had my toes tapping and my tutu twirling. I almost danced out in the middle of Paris – that pink tutu does have a way of turning heads!
Speaking of fashion, I spent an afternoon at a costumier's - these were like our boutiques today! Their creations were as ornate and extravagant as you could imagine – rich satins, silk, ribbons, and of course, the fabulous feathered hats that seemed to be the rage back then. I might just need to visit them again!
Bringing Back the History, Bringing Back the Pink
Remember darlings, I never travel empty-handed! I managed to secure a fabulous little ballet pamphlet - full of intriguing tales of French dancing schools and ballet costumes. 🇫🇷👗I'm sure you can guess where this pamphlet is headed - straight to my prized ballet collection!
Remember, every trip through time is a treasure trove waiting to be uncovered. I hope I've sparked your inner historian! Just remember, if you want to add some extra glamour to your day, a pink tutu is always a good option – I promise you won't regret it! 💕
Until next month, darlings! Remember to always wear your tutu with pride and grace, and let your own inner ballerina shine! ✨
**Love,
Emma xx**
