Ciao Bella! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina, and this week, I'm writing to you from the fashion capital of the world - Milan! 🇮🇹
You see, I always knew this trip was on the cards. Milan is where the best dancers from across Europe train and perform, and it's overflowing with fashion, art and, dare I say it, more than a fair share of beautiful tutus! 😉
The Journey to Italy
I boarded the train at Derby station (I am a Derbyshire lass through and through, you see) after a last-minute fitting for my new pointe shoes (bright pink, obviously!). A quick croissant at a Parisian cafe later, and I was whizzing through the stunning Italian countryside. Something about a high-speed train journey with a gorgeous view and a good book in hand just makes the heart soar, and mine was certainly doing just that!
First Impressions
When I finally arrived in Milan, I couldn't resist hopping off the train and onto the tram for a spin through the city centre. The architecture is simply breathtaking – every corner is filled with historic buildings and charming little shops, the streets teeming with fashionable people. And don't even get me started on the food! I'm not just talking pizza, although I definitely indulged in a few slices (what a delightful dilemma). This is the city that gave us tiramisu, after all! 🍮
The World of Ballet in Milan
Naturally, my first port of call had to be La Scala! Even for a girl who lives and breathes ballet like myself, seeing this legendary opera house in person was a sight to behold. I wandered through the grand foyer, admiring the lavish details and feeling a touch of stage fright. It really felt like stepping into a grand old theatre with the greatest dancers on stage!
Speaking of dancers, I managed to squeeze in a ballet class at a local studio while I was here. It was so much fun to practice amongst dancers from all over the world! Turns out, there are other tutu lovers out there!
A Fashionista's Paradise
Milan is not just about the ballet, it's also a shopper's dream! I went on a mission to explore the city's fabulous fashion scene. The Quadrilatero della Moda – a four-sided area housing the biggest fashion houses – is like a magical wonderland! I lost track of time as I wandered through boutiques displaying the latest designs and strutted down the street like a true Milanese fashionista!
Pink is the New Black (Well, maybe not, but it’s certainly a close second)
Naturally, every girl needs to wear pink when she's in the fashion capital. It wouldn't be a Pink Tutu Milan blog post without a pink outfit! I picked out the most fabulous tutu from one of Milan's charming boutiques - a pale blush pink, just the right shade to make the gorgeous sunset scenery even more magical. It was perfectly paired with a chic white top and a pair of pearl-toned ballerina flats, giving off a vintage chic vibe. And of course, a little splash of red lipstick completed the look! 💖
Catching a Show
Now, no visit to Milan is complete without a spectacular show. This week, I managed to snag a ticket for The Nutcracker, which I have been absolutely longing to see. I felt the thrill of watching the talented dancers glide effortlessly across the stage, their graceful movements telling a beautiful story. As a true ballet lover, nothing could compare to the breathtaking beauty and power of live ballet performance!
More Than Just Ballet
Of course, the Pink Tutu blog wouldn't be complete without my observations and experiences! My first glimpse of the beautiful Milan Cathedral, with its intricate details and breathtaking architecture, simply left me speechless. And while wandering the streets, I found the most charming cafes with amazing outdoor terraces. It was the perfect spot to relax with a cappuccino and watch the city come alive!
Finding My Tribe
One of the best parts about traveling is meeting new people. I found myself in conversation with a lovely group of locals at a vibrant, open-air market. It was a little nerve-wracking, speaking a bit of Italian I learned in university, but I had a great time learning about their culture, sharing stories, and even a few ballet moves, of course! Turns out, I wasn’t the only one wearing a pink tutu - I met another ballerina at the market, which just solidified my love for this amazing city!
Making Memories in Pink
As my trip drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a little wistful. Leaving Milan was like saying goodbye to a close friend. But the memories, the fashion, and the inspiration, I'll cherish forever! I already have plans for my next trip, and this time I am bringing my trusty Pink Tutu travel bag, because who says you can't take ballet everywhere?
The Pink Tutu Mission Continues
And now for the most important thing – you, my lovely readers. Don’t forget my mission! I want to get everyone dancing in pink tutus! Tell your friends, your families, anyone you meet - embrace the pink, embrace the ballet, and let your inner ballerina shine. 😉
This post may be the end of my Italian adventure, but my pink tutu travels continue! And you can bet your bottom dollar that I'll be back here, in the heart of the ballet and fashion world, for many more adventures to come!
Until next week, ciao,
Emma 💕
