Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu advocate, and I'm back from a simply delightful trip to London! Oh, I just adore the capital – it's like a magical box of delights that just keeps on giving. And let me tell you, this Friday was no exception!
As usual, I opted for a train journey down. I mean, what's more glamorous than watching the countryside flit by, wrapped in a soft pink cashmere scarf and, of course, a glorious tulle tutu, which, you'll be pleased to know, was a lovely, pastel pink! It was the perfect outfit to be noticed on the platform – everyone gave me a smile, a wave, or even an excited 'I love your tutu!' (Don't you just love a bit of positive reinforcement? It truly is the key to world peace, wouldn't you say?)
And then, London! It always feels like a grand homecoming, even if it's just a day trip. I couldn't resist stopping off at Liberty London first. It's such a beautiful shop, with those stunning Art Nouveau interiors and the most heavenly fabrics imaginable. The smell alone would be enough to send anyone into a delightful shopping frenzy, let alone the actual garments – but no, I behaved! (Well, for the most part...) I just managed to grab a delightful floral scarf for myself, just the right kind of pink, naturally, for a little extra oomph on my outfit!
Speaking of oomph, did I tell you about the delicious cream tea I had at a lovely little tearoom called The Rose & Crown in Chelsea? Tea, scones, jam and clotted cream – it's basically a gift from the gods, wouldn't you agree? Especially after a morning spent shopping at a rather pricey shop like Liberty!
From Chelsea, it was on to the theatre! You all know my penchant for the performing arts. I just love the way it transports me to another world – especially ballet! And today was extra special. You see, I saw the most beautiful production of "The Nutcracker" at the Royal Opera House. The dancing was simply breathtaking, and the costumes – oh my, they were just absolutely stunning. It felt like being a child again, swept away in a fairytale. I'd love to see some more classic ballets! Maybe even try and squeeze in "Swan Lake" or "Sleeping Beauty".
Speaking of ballets, how can we forget a quick visit to my beloved Royal Ballet School in Covent Garden? Seeing those young dancers honing their craft was just incredibly inspiring. They're all so talented! I wish I was back in training again - all the stretches and the hours in the studio just don't feel like work when you have a passion for ballet. One day, perhaps, I'll re-enroll for adult ballet classes. It's good to keep those toes pointed!
Now, what's a trip to London without a spot of vintage shopping, you ask? Of course! Well, it just wouldn't be a trip for this pink tutu enthusiast. I spent a joyous hour or so browsing through a delightful vintage shop on Berwick Street called The Rag Trade, and guess what? I found the most incredible vintage ballet tutu, made of pale pink silk, no less. A perfect reminder of the day, don't you think? It's going to be the perfect outfit for my next ballet class – think, Emma, the ballerina, circa 1950!
And the best part? This week's travel fund for my London trip came from a rather successful ballet performance at the local village hall back in Derbyshire. The villagers absolutely loved the piece! And it even included a brief section in tutus! Pink tutus, naturally! So, I managed to have my own grand theatrical adventure AND see my dreams of wearing a pink tutu in my performances come true – all in the same day. Not a bad way to spend a Friday, eh?
I'm feeling utterly invigorated and ready to spread the pink tutu love. My weekend is already planned with a little picnic at Hyde Park with a friend and a cheeky visit to Fortnum & Mason (anyone else ever just wander about smelling the beautiful aromas? A sensory delight!) to see what sort of treats they're serving up this week.
As always, stay tuned for next Friday’s post about more exciting explorations around this incredible city! And don’t forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com for a whole library of my blogs. Do leave me a message or a comment on the blog about your favourite London moments. I'd love to hear from you! And please, feel free to embrace the pink tutu spirit – maybe even share your favourite tutu look with me. I'd love to see you all wearing a pink tutu one day – and that's my goal: to make the world a little more beautiful, a little more whimsical, and a whole lot pinker, one tutu at a time.
See you soon, lovelies! Emma xoxo
What's Happening in London Today?
I know you all want to know what exciting things happened on Friday, 22nd March, 2002, and lucky for you, I have it all written down. It's truly been such a beautiful day in London. Here's what's going on in the city today:
Entertainment:
- Theatre: It was all about the ballet! I saw the amazing Royal Ballet’s rendition of "The Nutcracker" at the Royal Opera House – simply sublime.
- Art: The Tate Modern is hosting the retrospective exhibition of David Hockney. Such a great way to experience this icon’s most influential works.
- Music: The London Symphony Orchestra has a concert showcasing the music of Johannes Brahms.
- Other: The British Museum is currently running a special exhibition on "The Vikings: Life and Legend"
Events:
- The British Academy Film Awards is happening today. You'd better believe that the glitter and glam of London are all over that one.
- The Royal Horticultural Society is holding its annual Spring Fair at their lovely garden in Kensington. The flowers! It’s a wonderful visual treat!
Fashion:
- There is a fashion exhibition showcasing the designs of Vivienne Westwood – she truly revolutionized London style and street fashion!
- Liberty London always has something stylish in stock.
Food:
- It’s all about traditional tea times in London - and it's the perfect time of year for afternoon tea.
- The National Portrait Gallery cafe is serving up beautiful lunch menus in their cafe with stunning views of Trafalgar Square.
London’s beauty is it has something for everyone! I’m planning to stay here as long as possible. But even on the day, I always make sure to visit the best landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and London Eye! But let’s not forget my most treasured spot - Covent Garden. I always love seeing the street performers and buying yummy snacks and cakes! London’s charm always brings me a lot of happiness!
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go, let’s go, to London!
