Ciao Bella! It's Emma from Pink Tutu, reporting live from the vibrant city of Milan! I'm so excited to be back in this fashion-forward metropolis for the third time this year, and I can't wait to share all the pink-tastic adventures I'm having. This week has been a delightful whirl of culture, delicious food, and even a few twirls on the cobblestone streets – all while sporting a blush-pink tutu, of course!
Before I dive into my latest escapades, a quick hello to my wonderful readers! Did you know that this is my 58th Milan post on the Pink Tutu website? I'm so grateful for your continued support and enthusiasm. Every Monday, I'll be bringing you a peek into the colourful world of Pink Tutu Milan! And remember, every click on my blog helps me travel further, so I can bring even more magical tutu-tastic experiences to you!
This week began in true Milanese style - with a visit to the beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a shopping arcade brimming with luxury boutiques, elegant cafes, and enough bling to sparkle from space. I spent an hour or so admiring the architectural grandeur of the gallery – the mosaic floors, the ornate vaulted ceilings – all a breathtaking spectacle of artistry.
While admiring the architectural splendor, I found myself completely lost in a world of fashion. From the sleek windows of Prada to the playful creations of Moschino, it was a sensory overload of style, colour and oh-so-much pink! Even the mannequins in the shops had me envious of their fashion sense - each outfit effortlessly showcasing the latest trends, yet with their own unique flair. And me, with just my trusty pink tutu and a cheeky smile!
But my dear readers, you know I am a true ballerina at heart. No trip to Milan is complete without indulging my passion for ballet! This week, I saw a stunning performance by the Teatro alla Scala Ballet, a company known for its exceptional skill and dramatic expression. The piece was a modern ballet set to the music of Stravinsky, and it was a mesmerizing journey of emotion and athleticism. The dancers moved with incredible fluidity, their bodies as graceful as butterflies in flight. It truly was an inspiring experience, reminding me of the power and magic of dance.
Afterwards, I took myself for a coffee and gelato in a tiny cafe just outside the theater. A quick bite for my rumbling stomach, while still reliving the energy of the performance in my head! Milan truly does cater to every need!
Wednesday, I was up bright and early, ready for an intensive ballet class at the Accademia del Teatro alla Scala. There’s something incredibly inspiring about training with world-renowned teachers and dancers. Even with my limited skills, I feel completely welcomed, and that’s down to the spirit of the dance community in Milan. You see, the people in the ballet community here in Milan - the students, the teachers, the professionals - are so supportive and enthusiastic about their craft! There is an infectious energy that fills the studio. It makes you want to dance, twirl, leap and become the best dancer you can be. Every lesson is an absolute joy. Of course, every move I make is punctuated with the grace of a beautiful pink tutu - as you can imagine!
Milan is also renowned for its cultural heritage, so of course, a trip to the Castello Sforzesco, the grand medieval castle, was a must. The castle stands proudly against the backdrop of the city's bustling skyline, and inside, its walls tell stories of battles, kings, and queens, transporting you through centuries of history.
As I strolled through the courtyards, my imagination was running wild. I could picture knights in shining armor galloping across the battlefields and princesses in shimmering gowns gracefully dancing in the grand halls. And to give you a little secret: I found a quiet corner in the castle gardens, spun in my pink tutu, and felt the echoes of the past. The sheer magic of being there in my pink tutu transported me back to the time of the kings and queens, the knights and princesses. What a feeling, honestly.
My travels across Milan wouldn’t be complete without mentioning my adventures in exploring its hidden treasures - the charming boutiques, cafes tucked into quiet side streets, and even a quirky vintage shop bursting with fabulous 50s and 60s attire, all waiting for their new owner. It is truly a city that embraces its quirks, its individuality and lets everyone express themselves freely. Just like I embrace wearing pink tutus - without hesitation, and without any worry at all!
As for food, the aroma of freshly baked bread and rich espresso beans fills the air in every corner of Milan, and there is an abundance of tempting trattorias, restaurants, and cafes offering traditional dishes like risotto al Milanese, ossobuco, and of course, my favourite - Tiramisu! No visit to Milan is complete without a taste of this rich, decadent dessert.
I found myself at a local market just this morning, trying my luck with haggling for the perfect selection of cheese, fresh fruit, and pasta for my lunch. I know, I’m really pushing it – but I do like to make my meals an experience too. And how else to transport myself to a rustic Italian kitchen than wearing my trusty, beloved pink tutu? You’d be surprised, it fits in with the atmosphere just fine!
Of course, my Milan adventures wouldn't be complete without hopping on the tram, gliding past the cityscape with its magnificent churches and stylish department stores. There’s a distinct energy to this city that pulses through its heart - and it certainly gets to you, as a traveller! This city moves at its own pace - and you know what? I’m happily embracing it, my pink tutu dancing a ballet with every bump along the tracks.
Each evening, I finish my day with a stroll along the Navigli, Milan's picturesque canal network. The canals, lined with cobblestone paths and quaint cafes, offer a glimpse into the city's history, showcasing both its industrial past and its vibrant present. I always feel refreshed after my walk – and I do love watching the sunlight turn the buildings to a beautiful warm peach, a beautiful shade that echoes with my very pink, tutu’d heart!
My time in Milan is always too short. I must pack up my pink tutus, and say "Arrivederci" for now! But I promise to be back again soon. And my readers, remember that you don’t need a plane ticket to feel a little Milan in your own lives. I know you're all embracing colour and expressing your own style with pride. It’s why I love being a part of your journey with you every Monday on www.pink-tutu.com - to share our shared love of fashion, and even perhaps the passion for dance! Until next time, keep those tutus twirling, my dears, and keep following your own pink, tutu-filled dreams. Arrivederci!
P.S. Remember, you can keep up with my latest adventures on social media @pinktutuema on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, or you can join me in Milan for one of my Ballet Classes at The Teatro alla Scala in July 2024. More details to follow next month, darling!
