#PinkTutuBlogLondon Friday 2014-10-03 Exploring London (Post #944)
Hello my gorgeous lovelies! It’s Emma, your tutu-loving travel buddy, back from another whirlwind adventure. This week, I hopped on the train from my Derbyshire haven, feeling a familiar buzz of excitement as I chugged towards the capital. The familiar sights and sounds of London are like a comforting hug, welcoming me into a world of endless possibilities – all wrapped up in a delicate pink tutu, of course.
Today's London diary is bursting with highlights. Let's get straight to it, shall we?
First things first: Fashion!
Remember how I told you last week I was feeling a little bit adventurous in the sartorial department? Well, hold on to your teacups, darlings, because I’m officially addicted to vintage chic. You see, on this trip I’ve been obsessed with digging for those hidden gems in London’s retro shops. The thrill of the hunt, the delightful discovery of a perfectly-preserved fifties frock, or a vintage scarf with just the right amount of blush pink – it's just magic!
London is a city built for dressing up, and I’m not afraid to embrace the full, fabulous, tulle-tastic experience! I wore my tutu du jour - a whimsical baby pink creation, accented with a sprinkle of sequined butterflies - as I strolled through the retro fashion haven of Portobello Road Market. The entire market vibrated with life, and the vibrant colours and vintage finds made me want to throw caution to the wind and buy EVERYTHING!
Don't forget your fancy footwear! I found a pair of divine heels tucked away in a little shop off Kings Road - bright crimson with delicate gold detailing, and they looked positively magical with my tutu! It felt so empowering to stride down the cobblestones in this whimsical combination. It’s amazing what a change of shoes can do to your whole mood and outlook!
On to the Culture, Dear Readers!
Speaking of amazing things, we simply must talk about the Royal Opera House. A magnificent building, and oh, the spectacle! I caught a matinee performance of Swan Lake - I absolutely adore it! I’ve always been mesmerised by Tchaikovsky’s music and the poignant story of the Swan Queen. Watching the dancers spin and glide across the stage was simply enchanting.
But wait, there’s more! After the performance, I snuck backstage for a peek at the ballet dancers' dressing room. A whole new level of glamorous backstage magic! Everything from the vibrant costumes to the perfectly applied makeup - and, of course, those fabulous pointe shoes! It was almost enough to make me want to take up ballet professionally again, although I might need to up my pointe shoe game.
Ballet Inspiration
Speaking of ballet, a visit to London would not be complete without some serious ballet training! So, I booked a session at a well-known dance studio. I can't divulge all the secrets of the lesson, but I will say I emerged feeling a little bit more graceful and a lot more invigorated.
I even took inspiration from my dance session and tried a ballet-inspired look. My pink tutu remained the hero piece, of course. I added a blush pink cashmere scarf as a touch of elegance, paired with white ballet flats - oh, so delicate and perfect for a ballerina on the go.
Dining in Style
A little retail therapy, some exquisite ballet, a dance lesson - now it's time to refuel! You know, darling, there’s a little pink-tutu-loving foodie in all of us, right?
Dinner tonight was at a cute bistro just off Piccadilly, where I tried the most exquisite fish and chips - flaky cod coated in the lightest, crispiest batter, with the fluffiest chips. (Okay, perhaps I did get some of it on my tutu, but who's keeping score, right?)
To complete my evening, I finished with the most delightful raspberry sorbet. Oh my, a pink dessert - how could I resist!
Exploring on a Friday Night
The night wasn't quite over! I joined a group of friends for a lovely evening in Covent Garden, London’s bustling heart of theatre and arts. As the night lights danced around us, it really felt like London was coming to life.
We popped into The Old Operating Theatre, which was fascinating - a glimpse back in time, and quite possibly a reminder that modern medicine is a wonderful thing! Then it was off to The Globe, with its striking silhouette lit up in the night.
You know, London's streets are filled with captivating stories. You just need to open your eyes and let them come alive!
And, the Most Important Part
This trip wouldn’t have been possible without my dedicated ballet performances - you know I love to spin and twirl for all of you! So a big thank you for making this all possible. I couldn't do it without your love and support.
I leave you with my usual reminder to wear a pink tutu at least once this week! Embrace your inner ballerina, your unique style, and your love for all things pink!
Remember to follow me on my website - www.pink-tutu.com - for more London adventures! I’ll see you next Friday.
Don't forget to like, share and leave a comment - I adore hearing your thoughts and stories.
Happy twirling, darlings! Love, Emma x