Hello fellow tutu enthusiasts! It’s your favourite pink-clad time traveller, Emma, here! Ready to take you on another dazzling journey through history? Grab your favourite pink ribbon, your sparkling tiara (yes, they're back in fashion!) and settle in for a dance through the centuries… this month we’re jetting back to July 7th, 1757.
Whipping Back Through Time…
As usual, I boarded Magic Meg, my trusty pink-sparkling Shire horse, for this trip. He’s got golden hooves, a flowing white mane, and an uncanny ability to teleport us through time, making our journeys so much more whimsical! Meg just needs a nudge from my magic tutu wand and poof! We’re there!
The ride back to 1757 was quite breezy, honestly. I managed to snag a beautiful new pink velvet tutu from a travelling haberdashery back in the 1920s - the vibrant fuchsia colour will look splendid against the backdrop of 18th-century fashion, you wait and see! It will go beautifully with my lace bodice. My trusty leather rucksack, stuffed full with all my ballet must-haves (and ready for new finds) was safely slung over my shoulders.
A Ballerina’s Guide to 18th Century Life
Landing in the heart of 1757, the bustling streets were buzzing with carriages, foot traffic, and the charming sights of people in powdered wigs. As soon as we landed, Magic Meg was, predictably, the centre of attention, but he kept his cool – as dignified as ever! I love how people from every time period are just drawn to him, he has a very special sparkly aura.
In 1757, ballet was well and truly captivating the world. My mission, as always, was to seek out all the interesting dance facts and maybe even grab a rare first-edition of a ballet libretto. Today’s focus, as you know, is on the 7th of July – what a whirlwind of activity that day!
The Big News: 1757 Ballet Extravaganza
Right away, I heard that Paris was abuzz with the launch of the Grand Ballet de l’Opéra. Fancy! For me, it’s nothing but pink tutus and magical journeys, but imagine all the glamour! That night, the star was Mademoiselle Camargo, who was said to have "thrown herself into a series of poses never seen before". My favourite detail: she even danced a grand jeté to the sound of the thunder! It would have been simply fabulous to be in the audience, with my pink tutu and matching feather boa – imagine the sheer drama!
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, in America, ballet was steadily blossoming. This date marks the opening of New York's first dancing school, established by French ballerina, Mrs. Bardin. Isn't that delightful? Another little ballerina was brought to life on the stage, giving young aspiring dancers a space to cultivate their passion!
Shopping For History
The next day, I took Magic Meg on a shopping spree at the local marketplace! 1757 is quite different for me, as the French fashion of the time was already highly influential – imagine pastel pink gowns and intricate beadwork - gorgeous! There was a charming market vendor who sold exquisitely beaded gloves and fan veils that went perfectly with my tutu. I can’t wait to show you my newest finds!
Speaking of shopping, today marks the anniversary of an incredible event. On July 7, 1757, the opening of London's legendary retailer, Fortnum & Mason, a landmark that was a favourite with all of the big ballet figures in their time, including Madame Vestris. The building is magnificent and the teas were incredible, if a bit pricey. I may just go back to sample a bit more of that Earl Grey!
Keeping It Real with 1757 Fashion
But it's not just the grand shows and elaborate performances that captured my attention. I couldn’t help but notice the exquisite elegance of the women on the streets of 1757. Their outfits were simply enchanting - think pastel silks, voluminous skirts, and exquisite accessories. Now, my favourite look of the 18th century: women had to balance long, frilled dresses with the weight of elaborate powdered wigs and big hats. Imagine wearing my tutu and dancing on pointe with that head-heavy look! I couldn’t quite envision that look, although maybe that’s why I love tutus – for their simple beauty and focus on motion!
And So… My Ballet Dream Lives On!
With my heart full of wonder and my backpack overflowing with stories from the past, we bid farewell to 1757. That pink velvet tutu is going straight to my collection – a must-have addition to any tutu-lover’s wardrobe! I will never stop chasing the beauty of the past, but I’m also always looking forward – inspiring future generations with the magical dance of tutus and the enduring power of ballet.
As always, remember to twirl and sparkle,
Emma xx
(Word count: 1107)
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Looking forward to our continued journey through time!
