Hello my darlings! Emma here, back from another whirlwind adventure! This week, I've been in London, the ultimate playground for a girl like me, a city that throbs with life and glitter, where fashion dances hand-in-hand with culture, and where even the pigeons look chic in their black and white plumage. And guess what, I didn't even have to wear my sensible, grown-up shoes this time! That's because I went by train, which always makes for a delightful journey.
As usual, my trusty pink tutu twirled all the way there, it wouldn't be an #EmmaPinkTutu adventure without it, would it? I felt so pretty as I stepped off the train, ready to explore this magnificent city.
The sun was shining and the sky a brilliant blue, the perfect backdrop for a day of shopping, theatre and, of course, a spot of ballet. I started my adventure in Covent Garden, a dazzling haven of delicious smells, buzzing street performers and of course, fashion boutiques that left me practically swooning. The energy was electric, everyone so vibrant and alive. I was feeling a bit like Alice down the rabbit hole, only instead of a white rabbit, there was a little ballerina bunny, her tutu so bright pink that I swear I could see her across the square.
Oh my, the shoes! You can't beat a visit to Liberty London, those gorgeous shoe boutiques, each one with a fairytale theme, just like a scene from a ballet, it felt magical. I did, however, stick to the one pink pair I found, because let's face it, one pair of shoes, even when they are divine, can't really go toe-to-toe with the majestic Pink Tutu in my wardrobe. Plus, those are destined to be my next London ballet outing companion, I just know it!
After a whirlwind of shop windows, I was feeling peckish and needed to fuel my pink tutu energy! The Covent Garden market had so many lovely, enticing smells wafting in the air that I decided on a delicious French crepe from a charming little stall. Of course, I got a scoop of strawberry ice-cream too, because one cannot be too careful about their sugar intake, can one?
Fully refreshed, I headed over to the Royal Opera House. A quick walk, but oh, how glamorous. Imagine, dancing on that stage, performing in front of the London audience, and knowing that your tutu was perfectly coordinated to the magnificent setting! A girl can dream, can't she?
You know, you wouldn't believe what was on today. I actually walked into the ROH just as the rehearsals for "Giselle" were in full swing! It was amazing, watching the ballerinas pirouette and leap, with such grace and power. They were absolutely spellbinding, I was completely captivated. Even seeing rehearsals was such an inspirational experience. I must get my pointe shoes back out! The inspiration is mounting... maybe the next blog post is about returning to dance class, who knows?
This isn't the only thing I was inspired by this week. You wouldn't believe what I spotted on a local fashion blog⊠you are never too young to wear pink tutus. In fact, the most adorable image I saw today, was of a mother and her daughter, both in pink tutus, doing the most incredible dance in the middle of Covent Garden. And, yes, I've officially joined the fan club and made a request for their "family pink tutu" look book⊠It is beyond adorable.
To celebrate my own personal inspiration from the lovely mothers and daughters dancing together, I had to get a second scoop of ice cream, a delightful gelato, in Covent Garden.
After lunch, I finally made it to my theatre destination! It was one of those performances I simply couldn't miss, and thankfully, I'd got my hands on a couple of seats for myself and a dear friend.
"Strictly Ballroom" at the Piccadilly Theatre was⊠sensational. It's amazing to see how something like "Strictly Come Dancing" inspired such a dazzling show, all about dreams, dedication, dancing⊠and even a dash of love thrown in for good measure. You just have to see it to believe it.
I had the most wonderful time. My dear friend, who came to watch with me, knows nothing of pink tutus and said, "Youâd be the most colourful thing in the audience, in all the right ways!" and, oh, wasn't she right. Even the dancers on stage had to make an extra effort, to try and keep up with my glorious pink tutu as I swished and swayed along to the music, joining in, my head bobbing, feet tapping and toes tapping!
You know, if I can encourage more people to wear pink tutus, it doesnât matter if itâs to a theatre or a ballet class or to the shops. The world really needs more colour. And just like that, pink tutus could add a little extra shimmer and glamour to even the most mundane daily routines. Why wear ordinary, when you could wear a pink tutu? I promise you, you'll feel like a princess!
To sum up: my Friday in London was the most amazing adventure, so filled with beautiful things: wonderful music, gorgeous people and breathtakingly wonderful shops. Even better, it was an absolutely brilliant, exhilarating day.
And, I have a confession to make... Iâve never seen "Strictly Ballroom" in a real theatre before, Iâve only ever seen it on tv, but watching it live was a magical experience that Iâll never forget, it had me on the edge of my seat! I feel inspired and, as a result, my tutu is already in the wash for next Friday.
See you all soon, don't forget to join me next Friday!
Lots of Love and Tutu-ly Beautiful Kisses, Emma
This isn't the end! As always, I've got plenty to share with you, so here is a list of what Iâve also been enjoying this week, as always with lots of pictures and exciting things for you to click through!
London Favourites:
- * Covent Garden - A City Inside a City!* This vibrant space is overflowing with energy, you can literally see a hundred shows a day, all completely free. If you're in London, don't even think of missing Covent Garden.
- The Royal Opera House. This world famous theatre is stunning. Donât let its prestigious history put you off - there's something for everyone here. My tip is go early to get your fix of theatre glamour in the grand cafĂ© or grab a drink from one of the beautiful bars, then take in a ballet performance if you're feeling adventurous. You know, I do love those opulent staircases with the red velvet carpet. I also hear that this yearâs "Giselle" promises to be utterly stunning, so Iâll definitely be going back, hopefully with my new ballet shoes to show it off! I would advise checking out their web page and you can also have a great little tour of the backstage as well. It's brilliant and very impressive!
- The Piccadilly Theatre - A little more about "Strictly Ballroom". As you can tell, "Strictly Ballroom" was my favourite performance, so naturally I spent most of the week checking out some behind-the-scenes details. I was thrilled to discover that the musical includes 24 dancers, who, alongside actors, create a wonderfully authentic blend of dancing, story, costumes and music that is as joyous as it is emotional.
- London by Train. Well, it is my ultimate travel solution and so quick! It allows you to relax and let the British countryside sweep past the window while your day unfolds.
- The Liberty London shoe boutiques, Covent Garden. These are simply incredible! With names like The "Emerald Palace", the "The Grand Bazaar" and âThe Enchanted Forest" each one features breathtaking shop designs. Itâs no wonder, itâs considered one of the greatest department stores in the world and this time I just had to visit all three!
My favourite fashion finds: * Iâm obsessed with a gorgeous pale pink, fluffy tutu skirt, and am now saving every spare penny for my own version, to match my glorious full-length pink tulle, from a well known British High Street shop. But even better I've started a Pinterest board full of gorgeous pink outfits, in my usual style, but even more sophisticated than I'd imagined. And it features not just tutus but amazing pink shoes, tops, jeans, even the right pink tights to really match.
To add some magic to your day:
- This weekend, get outside and soak up some sun - grab your picnic basket and meet a friend for a long stroll, and be sure to add a little "pink tutu" into your look⊠why not try a simple pink cardigan, even a pretty pair of pink tights or a lovely pale pink bow tied around your hair, you could also, of course, add in your favorite pink lipstick for extra fabulousness!
*Emmaâs London Pink Tutu Must Haves! * Pink glitter makeup - I have a whole range of different colours for my tutu inspired makeup, but nothing adds a special kind of shimmer like pink glitter, trust me, you can always trust my intuition! My tip? Start with a neutral eye makeup base, then, pop in a small touch of sparkle using the corner of your eyeliner brush to add just the right amount of shimmer! It is an instant glow-up. Tights. Of course. For those times when a full-on tutu may not be possible (but you're secretly still dying for one!), then black tights, maybe with a pale pink embellishment, are always a good choice. Pink blusher - my must have, every day blusher. Just a little bit can give your cheeks a hint of summer glow. It just makes the world feel a little better!
My Favourite Music this Week
- Youâll need some inspiring music this weekend, to get your feet moving and your imagination into high gear, so Iâm adding some of my absolute faves from the âStrictly Ballroomâ soundtracks, for you. Just try not to get swept away, you know me, itâs so easy to get a little bit carried awayâŠ
[Include song list here.]
Well, that's about it for now, I hope this post has added a little pink spark to your day! I love hearing what you are enjoying so be sure to leave me a comment, even share one of your latest fashion adventures in the comment box. And as always, please donât forget to follow me on Instagram, I am loving your pictures.
Until next week, happy weekend everyone!
Lots of Love and Tutu-ly Beautiful Kisses, Emma
