Hello, darlings! Emma here, your pink tutu-loving, ballet-obsessed blogger, back with another instalment from my adventures around the globe. Today we're heading to London, a city that holds a special place in my heart. This magical metropolis pulses with creativity, elegance, and that certain je ne sais quoi that makes it so captivating!
I love London! As I stepped off the train and onto the platform at King's Cross station (and yes, the platform was just where the books say it is!), I breathed in that unique mix of vintage charm and modern buzz. The air is thick with anticipation, with everyone buzzing around with purpose and a touch of cheeky humour. Ah, London! You truly are a gem!
The day was bright and breezy, the perfect excuse to don my brand new pink tutu with a gorgeous layered lace trim. It was a vision in pastel pink – just begging to twirl through the streets. I teamed it with a blush pink silk top, some vintage floral tights, and my favourite pair of ballet flats. Because a ballerina needs to be comfy even when exploring the grand city!
Now, for today's schedule, I had it planned perfectly – London is all about keeping those itineraries organised! I had pre-booked my tickets for a ballet show at the Royal Opera House and I was SO excited! You see, a trip to London just wouldn't be complete without a night at the opera. And this was something I'd been saving up for. Ballet is my lifeblood! You see, as well as writing this blog and teaching ballet in my spare time, I perform professionally. So when I get to see an absolutely spectacular performance with legendary dancers... well, let's just say I was thrilled!
First stop: Bloomsbury!
London's diverse and dynamic. I always like to discover a new area each visit! So today I headed for Bloomsbury - the bohemian heart of London. My guide, as always, was a vintage map (one with lots of pink highlights!), which led me down cobblestone streets, past antique shops, quaint bookshops and stylish cafés. Bloomsbury feels very literary and artsy. It has that lovely air of 'secret haven' that makes me feel inspired and calm - like I could write a ballet performance for a theatre performance just like that! (If you don't know what I mean by that, perhaps you need a refresher on your classic ballet books - 'The Sleeping Beauty' is a wonderful classic with fabulous performance opportunities - just check out a ballerina on stage... truly inspirational!).
Shopping with a Side of Pink
My first port of call was to find a delightful vintage tea room, The Orangery. I indulged in the most divine pot of Darjeeling tea, paired with a slice of the most delectable strawberry cake. Now, you know me, it just HAD to have a touch of pink - so a single, delicate pink rose adorned the side of my plate.
Fully re-fuelled, I took a wander through the vintage clothes shops of Bloomsbury. Ah! Heaven! Let me tell you, it's a real treasure trove. From shimmering vintage dresses to glamorous cocktail gowns, I felt a twinge of excitement at every corner. One tiny shop, called 'Frock's', had this unbelievable emerald green sequined dress from the 1950s, just sitting in the window! It called my name and begged to be tried on.
(Okay, so maybe I indulged and bought it... But think of it, it would look AMAZING on stage!)
Street Art, Art Galleries, and a Pink Tea Party
London's street art is incredible. From edgy graffiti to quirky murals, there's something to be seen on every corner! Bloomsbury, of course, has a collection of fabulous art galleries, including The British Museum, which is one of my all-time favourites. They always have some intriguing exhibitions – today I spent a glorious afternoon immersing myself in ancient cultures.
In the evening, I was craving something even more delicate and charming, so I took myself to The Tea Terrace at The Dorchester hotel (you simply HAVE to visit!). It was a quintessential British experience - tea served with elegant sandwiches, scones, and cakes, all set in an unbelievably charming terrace with elegant white tablecloths. They even served tea in delicate pink teacups and saucers – my heart did a little happy dance!
The perfect end to a day of discovering Bloomsbury!
Ballet, Fashion, and Sparkling Lights:
The Royal Opera House is such a gorgeous, regal place. Just being there feels special. As I wandered past the grand marble staircases and intricate chandeliers, I was so excited that I had a sense I'd be walking out of there in a totally magical state of awe and grace.
The performance was 'Giselle', which I'd wanted to see for a long time. As the music began, the emotions flowed! It was a performance to truly remember - all the energy of a ballerina's life and years of dedication came out, radiating passion and the love for the art of dance! It was SO beautiful! I left with tears in my eyes (happy ones, of course!).
For a little after-show indulgence, I decided on a fancy dinner. Now, you may know, I love a glamorous, sparkling, glamorous evening – so I dined in a chic restaurant with a very glamorous and twinkling atmosphere called the 'Gallery'. They even served delicious pink champagne and I felt absolutely like a star in my vintage sequined dress. I topped off the whole evening with a spot of star gazing (and a pink star shaped ice cream) in Hyde Park.
London in Pink Tutus
There's just something about this city – London pulls me back again and again, making me want to return. The culture, the history, the architecture… but most importantly, London has the ability to make me feel utterly glamorous! With every cobblestone, every art gallery, every sip of tea, London is truly captivating! And it doesn't hurt that they sell amazing, sparkly, fluffy pink tutus. So, if you are in London, remember the #pinktutu is waiting! Until next week!
