I stepped into the Regency world with virtually no understanding of it. British history is not a staple of Australian school curriculums beyond where it refers to the First Fleet landing in Botany Bay. Personally I find that particular era to be a distasteful subject – and entirely irrelevant to my personal heritage since my father was born in Spain and my mother was a first generation Italian Australian. There is literally no British blood in my veins, but I’ve always felt like a girl out of my own time.
I have often said I should have been born two-hundred years ago – life would have fit me much better then. I dance, I sew, I sing, I write, I ride, I cook. I like manners, I don’t swear, I would much prefer a day filled with reading books, playing the piano or sewing a sampler than the tumultuous goings on of daily life in the 21st century. I’m sure I’m not alone, either!
Instead of living it in reality, I live it in my mind and on paper (or digitally..?) Whether you are reading, writing or watching it, the Regency world is there to be experienced. My favourite hands down is Pride and Prejudice 1995 – how could it not be? I can watch and re-watch and re-read it to the end of time. Close behind is the masterpiece that is Sense and Sensibility 1995. How great was 1995 for Jane Austen adaptations..? Emma Thompson is a revelation! Ang Lee created a timeless artwork – the sets, the costumes, the cast – everything is special. It was the first time I saw the wonder that is Harriet Walter, she captures the conniving beast that is Fanny Dashwood so perfectly – VIPER IN MY BOSOM, indeed! I’ve loved her in everything I’ve seen her in since.
I’ve recently become aware of the wonder that is Zack Pinsent of Pinsent Tailoring. How amazing are the beautiful outfits Zack makes? Check out Facebook and Instagram – he was even interviewed on BBC! Pinsent Tailoring specialise in historically accurate clothing – I think I know where I’m going when I want to get costumes! I’m imagining a very nice photoshoot with one of my more placid ponies and some historically accurate dresses and hats… Can you picture it? I sure can!
Victoria Clarke 