BRIDGERTON’S COLOURFUL TAPESTRY

It is of no surprise that the Netflix series Bridgerton has taken flight to stardom and is the rave on the lips of many. It has blown out of the water some fantastic stats, 82 million views to be precise and counting, which has made many pandemic days- in more bearable, I dare say, even enjoyable.

When the trailer beamed on to my Netflix screen, I was drawn into the kaleidoscope of immersive colours that befell my eyes- the scenes unfolding on the reel were exquisite, well-coordinated and opulent. With speed, I clicked on the reminder bell, I wasn’t going to miss this for the world!

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I much enjoy period dramas and swoon over regal soft furnishings and pretty dresses embroidered with petals and fine gemstones. This was a piece of pie I was very happy to wait patiently for. I bet all who have watched this drama series now know my patience was very well rewarded with gratifying images and an enthralling storyline. 

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A little bit of history wouldn’t go amiss in painting the picture of this period drama set in 1800s London. Bridgerton is adapted from novels written by the author Julia Quinn and produced by storyteller extraordinaire Shonda Rhimes- “one of the biggest names to come out of the entertainment industry”. Think ‘Scandal’, ‘How to get away with Murder’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, three of Shonda’Rhimes’ previous highly successful productions. So, it is easy to appreciate why Bridgerton has joined this league of success. 

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Like a tall glass of ice-cold lemonade on a hot summer day, it is refreshing to see Black/ People of Colour make an appearance in this period drama, playing the lead and being the talk of the town.

It buttresses the point that Black/POC have long been a part of the Monarchy and High Society if we go far back enough. A quick look into history will reveal the African Queen who called Roman York, home. She is popularly referred to as the ‘Ivory Bangle Lady’ whose remains were found in 1901, buried with high-value items ranging from fine jewellery to high-quality mirrors and elephant ivory bangles, signifying incredible wealth and affiliation to High Society.

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The opening scene of Bridgerton season one promises great entertainment to come- featuring a bright sunny summer day in London, blue skies with a golden hue of the sun rays, radiating through the town, an affirmation of the colourful events to take place. 

Horse and carriage slowly trotting on the road, as pigeons take flight in unison as a collective. On foot, with couples’ elbow locked, polite greetings offered with doffed hats, ladies wearing warm smiles in bright yellow dresses and of course a parasol to hand to ward off the sun’s impact on perfect skin. In this 1813s world centred around Grosvenor Square, an impeccable, flawless appearance means everything when the social season has officially begun.

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An abundance of purple wisteria is seen cascading down the front of the Bridgerton household imposing property, like soft rain on a hot summer day. Sophisticated front doors are gently opened to reveal a bright white reception room with high ceilings and the most opulent looking Maria Theresa style chandelier.

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This chandelier, featuring numerous lamps with wrap-around waterfall crystals, catching the light and dazzling attractively. A pair of floral jardinieres displaying colourful flowers dot the base of the grand staircase. Siblings conversing, little ones running around and awaiting the arrival of the beauty to be known as Daphne Bridgerton, as her sister Eloise bellows from the bottom of the staircase “Daphne, you must make haste!” Equally as much a reprimand as it is a request.

Ladies and gentlemen await the beautiful rose that is Daphne, to behold, the most talked-about beauty she embodies.

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Competition for marriage is in full throttle motion, all draped in fine jewels and a beehive-hairstyle to match, as virtue is offered to the most valuable man and chastity remains the currency.

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Queen Charlotte is inspecting, her opinion thought to be, the be-all and end-all. Her gaze can make or mar when it comes to the value placed on the ladies. Perfecting a curtsy, the right nod, an elegant gait, and a beautiful pink lipped half-smile, to depict a demure and flawless countenance. The lesson is in carrying on the act, far after the spectators avert their gaze.

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Lady Whistledown’s society paper proves that many crave some form of entertainment in written form, something to read and giggle about, share with friends and spread far and wide.

The curiosity to know the latest news and trends from fashion to high society. This yearning is innate, and no, you are not exempt, but of course, there are levels to this craving.

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The intrigue of a bad boy is sometimes alluring. There must be something (psychologist needed to crack this code) in the psyche that proves attraction to a fine tall man of colour, ridding on a dark horse, galloping with no care in the world. Complete with a cape-like robe, dark top hat, and piercing gaze to make any woman weak at the knees. 

I am talking about the dashing Duke of Hastings ready to save the damsel in distress.

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The eyes of beautiful Daphne and the handsome Duke lock and the future is sealed.

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It is obvious this is a hot, steamy, setting- pulses-racing love match, but not one devoid of challenges. A union in need of unpacking and healing- subsequent seasons will reveal the direction in which this marriage travels.

The 3 key take-home lessons from the first season of Bridgerton;

Love – Love is always on-trend. Good reciprocal love is sought by most, if not all. 

This inborn yearning to love and be loved seems to be the alluring spice injected into many books and movies. This intense longing resonates and never ceases to be a commodity that can be boxed and offered for the taking. Self-love is also a very rewarding type of love that should be indulged in.

Family – In many cases, family comes first. This little hub of shared DNA and family values, bound by a trio of knotted chords where we share life experiences- the highs, the lows, societal pressure, healing and navigating the world to decode the meaning of life.

Wear a pretty dress and enjoy the show- preferably with a drink in hand and pretty shoes to match. Events are setting off all around us like the fireworks seen on the 5th of November. The idea is to focus on the positives, observe, take notes, breathe, smile and repeat.

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As we patiently await Netflix, Shonda Rhimes and her team to work magic on delivering a sequel (Bridgerton Season 2), we will carry on mesmerising our senses with the memories of this intriguing storyline, permeated with love scenes and magnetic attraction that titillated our vision with a variation of glorious skin tones, ranging from juicy dark berries to sweet milk.