Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad traveller, Emma, back with another fabulous Friday blog post! This week, I've traded the rolling hills of Derbyshire for the vibrant streets of London, and trust me, it’s already a whirlwind of excitement!
As always, I took the train down – there's something so magical about chugging along, watching the world go by from the window, a dreamy soundtrack playing in my headphones. I find the whole process incredibly romantic, almost as if I’m being transported back in time to an old film, where people travelled in elegant trains and wore beautiful hats! I’ve already got my eye on a stylish trilby that would be perfect for my next train adventure!
This trip's fuelled by a combination of my ballet performances, which have been incredibly rewarding and allow me to explore the world, and, of course, my unyielding passion for all things pink and twirly! I’ve got a schedule packed with exciting London activities – theatre performances, ballet classes, and of course, some essential fashion fix sessions!
So, grab your favourite pink accessory, put on your dancing shoes (figuratively or literally, you do you!), and get ready to join me as I paint London pink!
A Royal Encounter at the PalaceFirst stop on my London escapade? The iconic Buckingham Palace! Honestly, I’ve always dreamt of visiting this historical landmark and today, that dream came true. The sun was shining, the flowers were blooming, and the Queen’s Guard marched with impeccable precision. I felt like I’d stepped straight into a fairytale!
While I might be a modern ballerina, there’s something truly inspiring about the tradition and history that surrounds a place like Buckingham Palace. It’s like stepping into a storybook filled with princesses, knights, and courageous adventures.
As a big fan of historical fashion, I just had to snap some pictures in front of the Palace gates. I paired my iconic pink tutu with a vintage cream-coloured jacket and a whimsical floral hat – a bit of Victorian flair meets the modern ballerina! It felt like the perfect mix of timeless elegance and playful fashion.
Did you know? Every day at 11 am sharp, the changing of the guard ceremony takes place in the courtyard. It's a must-see if you ever find yourself in London. If you’re a bit of a history buff like me, be sure to pop into the Palace’s State Rooms. The opulent decor and stunning artwork are just incredible! I can see why this place has been home to monarchs for centuries.
A Glimpse into the West EndNo trip to London is complete without a visit to the legendary West End! Today, I saw "Six," a historical musical retelling the stories of the wives of Henry VIII, with a contemporary twist. Imagine: a pop concert-style show featuring catchy songs, modern choreography, and six empowering female voices, all set in a vibrant palace-inspired backdrop!
Let's just say, I was thoroughly impressed! The energy in the theatre was infectious and the sheer talent of the performers had me tapping my feet and wanting to burst into song! It was a perfect mix of fun, feminism, and of course, a dash of drama.
The costume design, in particular, was brilliant. Imagine all the royal brides transformed into contemporary popstars – fierce, sassy, and totally fabulous! I could easily picture myself performing on stage in a sparkling pink tutu, singing my heart out – dream job!
If you’re in London and need a dose of inspiring theatre, “Six” is definitely worth checking out. It's a joyous reminder that women can be strong, sassy, and have fun at the same time – an idea I always love to share with my lovely pink tutu followers!
What did I learn from “Six”?
- We can rewrite history with our own personal narratives!
- We need more women empowered in music, theatre, and just, in life!
- If a queen can slay with a sparkly microphone and fierce attitude, then anyone can!
London's ballet scene is, of course, one of the main reasons for my trip! The Royal Opera House, with its world-renowned ballet performances and prestigious dance academy, is a place of wonder for any dancer.
Today, I participated in a masterclass hosted by the Royal Ballet’s very own Lauren Cuthbertson. Lauren is an incredible ballerina with years of experience, and I couldn't pass up this opportunity to learn from one of the best.
Even though my skills don't quite compare to hers, I felt so energized by the class! I even incorporated some of the movements into my usual ballet routine – I’ve been working on some fun new moves for a future pink tutu performance!
Beyond the class, London's dance scene is brimming with other talented choreographers and dancers who are constantly innovating and creating. This isn't your grandma's traditional ballet – think dynamic routines, modern expressions, and bold costumes. I love seeing the artistry of these performers take center stage, and it inspires me to push my own creative boundaries, both in my ballet routines and my blog.
London's Ballet Scene in a nutshell?
- A mix of traditional artistry and contemporary flair
- Energetic routines, pushing the boundaries of dance
- An inspirational environment where dancers share a common passion
- The place to be if you want to immerse yourself in the magic of dance
Naturally, a London adventure wouldn’t be complete without some serious shopping! The capital is a shopper's paradise, and this time, I went full-blown “Emma on a Pink Mission.”
I began my day by scouring the shelves of Liberty London. If you haven’t been, it’s like stepping into a whimsical world of colourful fabrics, intricate patterns, and unique designs. It's a paradise for anyone with a love of fashion, and for me, it was a dream come true!
This time, I wasn’t searching for tutus, although I certainly couldn't resist trying on a couple – you never know, you might find a hidden gem! Instead, I was looking for a special piece to complete my wardrobe – and wouldn’t you know, I found the perfect vintage-style silk dress! It's pastel pink, of course, with a beautiful flowing skirt, perfect for waltzing in a fancy London garden!
I paired the dress with a cream cardigan and a dainty straw hat, which was absolutely perfect for strolling around London's historic streets, with its picturesque shops and charming architecture. It was all a bit very English rose, even if I do come from Derbyshire!
Where did I go?
- Liberty London: This iconic department store boasts beautiful designer clothing, quirky accessories, and unique gifts – my London go-to for that special something
- Fortnum & Mason: A bit of an expensive indulgence, but this department store is like a time capsule, packed with luxurious tea blends, gourmet chocolates, and an old-fashioned elegance that’s truly unique
Covent Garden, with its historic architecture, vibrant street performers, and delicious smells emanating from every corner, is one of my favourite London spots. It's a cultural melting pot of art, food, and music – all served up with a good dose of London charm!
Today, I spent a leisurely afternoon wandering through the bustling markets, marveling at the craftsmanship on display, and enjoying the musical talents of local musicians. There’s always a lively atmosphere – it’s truly captivating!
I indulged in some delicious, locally-sourced pastries at a quaint bakery, my favourite being a mini-pink cupcake, topped with delicate pink icing – pinkness in every bite! I swear, London makes finding pink food easier than anywhere!
While browsing through the stalls, I discovered a local artisan crafting beautiful, hand-painted tutus. She has a whole collection – some pastel pink, some vibrant, and some decorated with floral designs. I was mesmerized by their beauty! I simply had to snap up a new pink tutu with shimmering embellishments and lace accents!
What’s so special about Covent Garden?
- A treasure trove of artistic wonders, street performers, and handcrafted goods
- A chance to get a taste of London's unique culture, in all its vibrant glory
- Perfect for wandering and getting lost in the charming alleyways and markets
London at sunset is something truly special. To experience this magical moment, I decided to walk across the iconic Tower Bridge!
Standing on this historic bridge, watching the city come alive as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in a canvas of oranges and pinks – a scene worthy of a postcard! It felt like a fitting finale to a day filled with pink delights, art, and explorations!
Why you should go
- Stunning panoramic views of the London skyline, especially at sunset
- A unique perspective of the River Thames and the iconic landmarks
- It's like stepping back in time, as you learn about its history
- Just the perfect place to contemplate the end of a perfect London day!
That wraps up another pink-filled adventure in London! As I leave the capital, I carry a renewed sense of inspiration and excitement, fueled by my adventures in dance, theatre, and fashion! I’ve found a couple more things to add to my “pink” bucket list and gained inspiration for future pink tutu performances – my dance students are going to be amazed!
And remember, my lovely pink tutu followers: we are all a little bit pink on the inside! It’s the energy of optimism, creativity, and playfulness! Don’t be afraid to embrace your inner sparkle and show off your unique sense of style.
I want everyone to feel empowered, to wear their pink tutus proudly, and twirl their way through life, with a dash of pink and a lot of laughter!
I'll be back next Friday with a brand new adventure – stay tuned for more pink-tastic stories from your tutu-clad traveller! Until then, keep spreading the pink!
Lots of love,
Emma 💖🩰
P.S. Have you visited London? What’s your favourite part of the city? P.P.S Share your pink tutu outfits on Instagram using #PinkTutuBlog! I’d love to see what you’ve been twirling in!
