#PinkTutuBlogLondon Friday 2006-04-28 Exploring London

Hello darlings!

This week, the pink tutu takes flight from Derbyshire to London! A whistle-stop trip, but oh so exciting! And of course, everything has to be pink... even the train journey!

It's a Friday, the sun's shining (a rare treat for old Blighty!) and I'm perched by the window, gazing at the beautiful English countryside whizzing by. This is where my creative juices flow - nothing beats the rhythm of the train tracks and the anticipation of a big city adventure for getting those ballet-inspired thoughts twirling!

For those who are new to the pink tutu revolution, I'm Emma, your favourite tutu-clad travel blogger! I live, dance and breathe pink! I travel the world sharing my love for everything pretty, from dreamy ballet performances to stunning couture designs - and it all comes together in a pink tutu.

Every Friday, I write my blog post about my adventures. It's a diary of my dreams - think of it as your weekly dose of glitz, glamour and all things fabulous, all packaged in a perfect pink bow! My travel adventures are funded by my love for ballet. Every week, I perform in local Derbyshire theatre productions, keeping my tutu twirling muscles in tip-top shape and allowing me to spread the pink cheer wherever I go.

This week, my #PinkTutuBlogLondon blog post is all about exploring the heart of this amazing city. London is always buzzing with life, creativity, and a whole lot of charm - perfect for a ballerina's journey.

But enough about me! Let's get this fabulous Friday adventure going. Here’s the lowdown:

You've heard the expression "dressed to the nines?" Well, today I'm dressed to the twelfths! I couldn't just hop on the train in my usual, perfectly-pink everyday ensemble. A long train journey calls for extra glitz!

My travel tutu is a stunning creation. The softest silk tulle in a delicate ballet-pink, cascading around my legs like a ballerina’s dream. It’s a perfect balance of feminine flair and effortless chic. Of course, there’s a touch of extra sparkle! A smattering of shimmering sequins adorns the bodice - because every outfit deserves a little something that catches the light, right? To add a bit of Parisian edge to the outfit, I've paired it with a classic Breton stripe top, adding a vintage touch and echoing those nautical stripes that you see on so many London icons! My signature ballet pink beret rests upon my head, ensuring I look absolutely darling even while travelling. I'm quite a sight in the morning commuter rush. A pink blur! I do hope the commuters were enthralled by my fabulous train journey ensemble, I hope it inspired them to wear their own personal touches!

London has so much on offer – there are musicals, theatre, world-class ballet companies, and beautiful shops. But I'll confess, shopping and the stage aren’t the only reason I'm so keen on visiting London! My heart is set on the Royal Ballet’s production of "La Sylphide". It's a romantic story brought to life by stunning choreography, intricate sets and magnificent costumes – perfect for a pink tutu-loving ballerina!

Quick Tip: I always take a foldable travel mirror with me so I can ensure my pink tutu always looks its best! And don't forget some ballet-inspired perfume for an extra touch of floral and sweet-smelling pinkness!

London has the kind of charm and energy that just invigorates my soul. You know those days where you’ve left the worries behind and everything just seems magical? That’s London for me!

The Royal Opera House is on the top of my list. I’m a little early for my “La Sylphide” ticket but it’s well worth spending a few minutes soaking in the history of this world-famous building. There’s something quite impressive about a building that has hosted some of the world's most iconic ballet performances – the magic of the stage seems to seep right into the very stones! The atmosphere is simply intoxicating – a heady blend of anticipation and excitement for the performances to come.

Of course, any trip to London has to include some sightseeing! I find a sunny bench in Hyde Park, my pink tutu swirling around me in the gentle breeze as I take in the lush greenery and majestic trees. Hyde Park really does feel like a peaceful haven from the bustle of London – and an absolutely fantastic place to enjoy a few minutes of my own private ballet performance, as it seems no one minds a tutu-clad twirling in the park. Who knows, perhaps I’ve inspired some local ballet fans!

London is bursting with the creative energy of countless shops, boutiques, and ateliers - making this a real fashion dream! From the famous shops on Bond Street to the quirky vintage gems of Portobello Road Market, every corner seems to whisper with style and fashion inspiration. After an invigorating and romantic walk along Regent’s Canal – where I couldn't help myself from doing a few pirouettes against the colourful canal boats - it’s time to start my shopping spree!

London’s fashion scene never fails to amaze me. I must have tried on a dozen ballet flats, so many that I could probably do a grand jeté in each of them by now! It's difficult to resist the temptation, after all, shoes are like the little touches that make the whole outfit truly sing. But ultimately, my love for the pink tutu stays true! Today's shopping bag has been graced by a beautiful, shimmering ballet pink tulle scarf - the perfect accessory for adding an extra touch of magic to any outfit!

Oh! Don’t forget! As soon as you arrive in London, pop by the amazing ballet shop on Covent Garden - a haven for dancers of all ages. I can't leave without picking up a beautiful pink ballet shoe charm for my tutu bag.

A Ballet-Themed Tip: London has plenty of beautiful dance stores, including Dancewear Solutions on Shaftesbury Avenue. If you’re looking to find that special something to elevate your ballerina style, it's a real gem!

It’s now twilight. A beautiful sunset casts a warm pink hue over the city as I make my way to the Royal Opera House. The atmosphere buzzes with excitement, the chatter and murmurs from the elegant crowd creating a unique symphony.

There’s something breathtaking about seeing the dancers glide across the stage. It’s as though they float effortlessly on air - the combination of artistry, strength, and precision makes me admire ballet so much. It's not only a captivating display of physical skill; it’s also an incredible storytelling experience that truly resonates with the audience. The dancers’ passion flows through every gesture and pose.

I know I'm a bit biased, but I honestly think that “La Sylphide” has some of the most breathtaking costumes. It’s the perfect mix of ethereal femininity and classic dance elegance. For my next tutu creation, I’m definitely thinking of adding an element of whimsical detail – maybe a sprinkling of glittering sequins or delicate lace inspired by these incredible stage costumes.

As the final curtain drops on "La Sylphide," a surge of energy ripples through the theatre. It’s an emotional high; everyone feels a collective gasp of amazement and then… a standing ovation. The applause explodes into a glorious crescendo of admiration, and as I soak in the atmosphere I realise that my tutu isn’t the only thing in this grand venue with a hint of magic. Ballet, too, truly enchants, captivating, and lifting everyone around.

Ballet Tip: I’ve fallen in love with "La Sylphide” once again! Now I just have to work on finding the perfect pink tutu for a ballet-inspired dress up night at my ballet class back in Derbyshire.

A night filled with ballet magic, I head back to the station with a heart overflowing with joy. My pink tutu has definitely made some beautiful memories.

Before long, the train carries me back into the English countryside, the soft glow of the moon painting the scenery in silver hues. As the countryside fades into a haze I am filled with a deep feeling of contentment, a contented sigh escapes my lips - what a wonderful, enchanting adventure.

Don't forget, you can always find more #PinkTutuBlogLondon posts on the website, www.pink-tutu.com.

I hope this post has inspired you to step into a little pinkness this week! Remember, there’s no wrong way to rock a tutu. Find what makes you feel confident, magical, and truly express your own unique style.

Until next Friday, stay stylish!

Love,

Emma