Friday 1998-06-12
Hello my lovelies! I'm writing to you today from the heart of London! It's been a whirlwind of pink, sparkles, and ballet brilliance since I arrived this morning. Just picture it: me, rocking my fuschia tutu on the platform of Derby Station, feeling like a proper princess as I board the train. Let's face it, travelling by train is always more exciting in a tutu, and with all that added twirling space, it's practically mandatory!
I've been counting down the days to my London escapade since I landed a gorgeous role in a production of 'Sleeping Beauty' down in Derbyshire - a week of performing and I knew I'd be treated to a little break. And oh, my darling dears, I knew exactly how I would spend my hard-earned ballerina cash: London, London, London!
London always calls to me like a siren's song. I just can't resist the vibrancy of it all – the history, the fashion, the amazing theatre productions, and, of course, the glorious ballet scene. Speaking of, did you know there are two Royal Ballet performances today at the Royal Opera House? I couldn't resist booking myself a seat. How could I possibly miss 'Swan Lake'? It's such a classic and always blows me away.
Before heading to Covent Garden for the show, though, I'm on a mission. Remember how I mentioned all those vibrant colours London has to offer? Well, it just happens to be the most stunning day for a pink fashion adventure, and today I'm going to hunt for a brand-new pair of pink heels! Now, let me tell you, London is like a treasure chest of fashion delights. From the chic boutiques of Bond Street to the vintage wonders of Camden Market, every street corner is practically begging me to wear it.
To be honest, I already have a very respectable collection of heels back home, but it's not a collection unless you can add to it every single time you visit London, right? Don't tell my landlord about that one, but I have a feeling he wouldn't be able to resist my charming smiles anyway! He's rather fond of the tutus, you see, and always tells me to wear one around the flat when I pay the rent. Who knows, perhaps he'll let me put some ballet shoes on him someday, too!
But back to the shopping spree. My aim today is to find the perfect pair of pink high heels, one with that eye-catching shimmer to really make a statement. The perfect pink heel will elevate any outfit - it's a real magic potion, if you ask me. I may even splurge on a pink hat or two! And maybe a feather boa just to spice things up...
After all, it's not a proper London adventure unless you embrace the sparkle! Oh, darling, let me tell you, I'm not one to blend in. Life's far too short for boring outfits, wouldn't you agree? So you know what they say, wear your tutu proudly, let your heart sing, and watch the magic unfold. It's my mantra for living a fabulous, pink-tinted life, and it seems to be working!
But here's the secret. It doesn't really matter if you think you can pull it off. Because trust me, darling, you can. The beauty of pink tutus and the art of ballet (just like a fabulous pair of heels!) is that they can bring joy and beauty into any day. And if I can convince just one person to step out of their comfort zone and embrace their inner sparkle, then I've done my job.
After all, we are all destined to be dancing queens, just like the swans at the Royal Opera House.
Right, where were we? Ah, yes, my shopping expedition. Oh, dear, what shall I pick? The softest shade of pastel pink or maybe something a little bolder, perhaps something with a fiery edge? Oh, decisions, decisions!
*Update: * Darling, the search is over! My first stop was to Oxford Street where I felt myself magnetically drawn to the pink glitter collection at Liberty. It truly was a love at first sight situation, a whirlwind romance culminating in a pink glitter shoe! (If you are reading this blog at home, I recommend adding that to your to-do list - it will certainly elevate your mood).
Let's be honest, it would have been impossible to walk past a pink glittery treasure. I practically squealed, it's so incredibly stunning, and I can see them twinkling right now!
Okay, darling, that wasn't my only shopping discovery of the day. But alas, that is for another post. After the store, I found myself at the fabulous street stalls of Covent Garden Market. It's just like stepping back in time with the historic cobbled courtyard and colourful street performances. But there's also this vibrant, modern energy pulsing in the air, and that, darling, is truly what London is all about!
Covent Garden is a treasure trove for any ballet aficionado, from antique jewellery shops to costume makers and artists working their magic right before your eyes. I must say, it's rather easy to get lost in a wonderland like this - I swear I'm still finding hidden gems to this day.
My afternoon ballet date was waiting, so I picked up a bag of freshly-baked gingerbread for the road. It wouldn't do for me to actually go to the theatre without a little sweet treat! I mean, what would I wear a pink tutu to if not for special occasions like ballet shows?
Well, I've officially caught the ballet bug! I don't think I've ever seen anything so exquisite as the Royal Ballet dancers in Swan Lake. Each movement was like poetry in motion, graceful and elegant. And the music? It was almost as if it was dancing on the stage alongside them, creating an emotional rollercoaster for the whole audience. My heart was practically swelling with joy! I felt truly inspired and it's made me so eager to step back into my pointe shoes for class tomorrow. Oh, if only every day could be a ballerina dream.
Before heading back to my delightful bed & breakfast (which, by the way, I can't recommend enough if you ever visit! The owner, Mrs. Thompson, serves the most amazing cream tea!), I stopped for a spot of tea in the cutest little cafe I found on Piccadilly. I know, I know, "Tea?" You might think, "That's so cliche." But believe me, tea in London is an experience. It’s an afternoon delight and the perfect way to take it all in - the sounds, the sights, and those delicious pink Victoria Sponge cakes. Don't get me started on the scones! It truly is the best way to unwind and prepare for a restful night after a long day of ballet-filled adventures.
So here I am, safely tucked into bed, reflecting on another unforgettable day in London. The city feels as much like home to me as my little village in Derbyshire. And yes, I might just be biased, but London is truly the most spectacular city for any ballerina on the go. The mix of history, fashion, and that incredible ballet scene – it all just feels like a fairytale!
Oh, darling, before I close for today, I almost forgot - have you ever noticed that tutus never seem to go out of style? Just like pink, it's classic. Timeless. This week's 'Tutu of the Week' is a light-pink, layered tulle dream I spotted on my shopping spree - imagine my excitement! It's just the right shade of pastel to elevate any ballet outfit and has the perfect amount of sparkle, darling, it's going straight on my ‘must-have’ list! Don't tell my bank account that though...
Until next week my dears, keep dancing, stay glamorous, and remember: wear pink and don’t forget your tutu. After all, you only live once and life is better in pink!
With all my love,
Emma
P.S. Have I told you I've launched a website, www.pink-tutu.com? Check it out! It's filled with pink fashion tips, ballet reviews, travel updates, and loads of inspiring advice. And who knows, you might just catch me twirling in a tutu on the blog homepage! I love nothing more than sharing my adventures, inspiring a little bit of sparkle in others, and spreading the love of pink!
*Don't forget to tune in next Friday for a brand-new blog post. And be sure to leave me a comment below to let me know what you think about today’s adventure. I love hearing from you all. *
