Friday 1st June, 2007
Hello, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-clad travel enthusiast, Emma, back with another Friday update from my adventures in the capital! This week, I hopped on a train from Derbyshire – gotta love the convenience of train travel, it's just so chic – and arrived in London bright and early, ready to soak up all the exciting sights and sounds.
Today, London feels like a dream. The sun is shining, the air is crisp and filled with the sounds of street performers, and I'm swirling in my newest pink tulle tutu – can you even handle the amount of pink?! Honestly, this colour never fails to bring a little sparkle to any occasion. I'm thinking of getting a bespoke tutu made entirely of pink glitter. Can you imagine?!
But enough about my sartorial delights, let's talk about London! I love this city with its hidden nooks and crannies, historic buildings, bustling streets, and the vibrant atmosphere that simply sucks you in. My morning started with a delicious, creamy latte in a little independent café off Kensington High Street, accompanied by a pastry as beautiful and intricate as a ballerina’s costume. I can't help myself – pastries and ballets just go hand in hand!
Next on the agenda? A little window shopping, of course! The sales have just begun in some of my favourite boutiques. I'm always on the lookout for the perfect dress for a ballet gala, something dramatic and flowing, with the perfect balance of sophistication and whimsy. There's something magical about transforming yourself with a stunning dress, it's like entering a whole other world.
And speaking of magical, how can I forget about the world of theatre and dance?! Tonight I'm seeing "Swan Lake" at the Royal Opera House – oh, how I do love a classic! I've been saving up for months for this one – I managed to squeeze it in between some smaller performances around Derbyshire, a great way to fund my adventures. Nothing beats a grand performance to elevate the spirits and fuel the soul, don’t you think?
I also picked up a gorgeous floral headpiece for tonight's performance – pink and white peonies with delicate pink feathers. Absolutely divine! You see, when I choose a headpiece, it needs to be statement-making. The colours, the design, it all must complement my overall aesthetic. Just like a ballerina on stage, you need to make sure every detail comes together for a truly dazzling performance, even if that's just for the day!
Speaking of the stage, my love for ballet and my travel adventures go hand-in-hand. This city has some incredible venues – Sadler's Wells, the Royal Opera House, the Barbican. The energy you feel in these places is contagious. I can almost hear the applause in the air, even before a single note is played! The passion, the beauty, the talent - ballet is truly something to behold.
And if you think about it, London is much like a stage – with its many vibrant characters, captivating scenery, and a constantly changing cast! You can be a tourist for the day, an urban explorer, a theatre-goer, a shopaholic. The possibilities are truly endless!
But just as important as embracing the city's vibrancy is slowing down to truly experience it. I made a point to wander around Covent Garden after lunch – the scent of flowers, the musicians' tunes, the colourful costumes and characters... it was a truly captivating experience.
There's a certain kind of charm to the cobblestone streets and historic squares. You can just feel the history in these places. As a girl who’s fascinated by vintage styles and classical fashion, it's a real treat to walk in the footsteps of those who have come before me!
This afternoon was a true sensory feast. My stomach has a distinct preference for pastries – I think I need to add “Pastry enthusiast” to my blog title! So, after exploring the delightful streets, I decided to stop for some afternoon tea at The Ritz. Of course, no trip to London is complete without a proper cup of tea with scones, clotted cream, and cucumber sandwiches. And how elegant it all feels! I love how tea in London transcends the ordinary and becomes this luxurious experience. I might have been tempted to channel my inner Downton Abbey character with my finger sandwiches... it was all quite the scene!
As the evening approaches, I'm feeling a sense of anticipation and excitement. The magic of London starts to truly bloom as dusk settles in. The buildings are bathed in warm, golden light, the streets are buzzing with life, and the air carries the promise of adventure. The best part of this city is how it surprises you at every corner, whether it's a new café, a hidden street market, or a charming independent bookshop tucked away on a quiet side street.
Speaking of shops – I stumbled upon the most beautiful boutique selling ballet costumes just around the corner from the hotel! There were pink tulle tutus everywhere, along with beautiful floral embellishments. I might have picked up a few ribbons and some matching fabric for my tutu-making projects – shhh, it’s a secret until I post it to the blog! Honestly, I couldn't resist the opportunity to add to my ever-growing collection! It's amazing how even a small shop can be a world of wonder if you allow yourself to be swept away.
The energy of London never seems to stop, it’s like a whirlwind of excitement and creativity. I can see why artists, dancers, performers, and creatives of all kinds gravitate towards this place – it's impossible not to be inspired by the constant buzzing and hustle! But there’s also a calmness that surrounds the older, more established parts of the city. It's as though you're being pulled in two different directions: a whirlwind of innovation on one hand and an atmosphere of historical importance on the other.
Later this evening, after seeing "Swan Lake", I might just end my night with a quiet glass of prosecco at the hotel bar and a cup of hot cocoa with marshmallows – just the perfect end to a day filled with pink tulle, stunning performances, and exciting London moments. I'm truly grateful to be able to experience all of this and to share it with you!
So, stay tuned for more adventures in pink! Next Friday, I’ll be heading to the British Museum – I hear there are some incredible collections of ballet costumes. Perhaps I can pick up some inspiration for my next design!
Until then, remember to always keep your head held high, your heart full of dreams, and your spirit sparkling like a ballerina under the stage lights. You never know what kind of magic might unfold in your own little corner of the world.
Stay sparkly, Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
