Ciao Bella, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Milan! It’s a beautiful, sun-drenched Wednesday here in the heart of fashion and artistry – Milan! My love affair with this city is definitely in full bloom. The vibrant energy, the delicious food (have you tried the focaccia?!), and the endless avenues of chic boutiques all combine to create a heady mix of culture and charm that’s simply irresistible!
It feels surreal, looking out over the cobbled streets from my little window – I'm staying in this adorable apartment nestled between a bakery and a vintage clothing shop, just off Piazza della Scala. It's just like one of those picture-perfect Italian piazzas you see in the movies, bursting with life and energy!
My trip to Milan this week has been pure ballet bliss from start to finish! This week is the Teatro alla Scala's The Sleeping Beauty – the biggest production they do! Imagine, all those elaborate sets, glittering costumes, and magical choreography! You'll find me in the stalls most nights!
This city never sleeps. The atmosphere is electrifying. The Italians have a certain energy and style – an undeniable "je ne sais quoi." You'll see ballerinas strutting through the streets in their sleek tutus, their pointe shoes tapping a rhythm to the urban symphony.
As you know, my motto is, "Embrace the pink, wear the tutu, and twirl with joy!" and this motto definitely resonates in this charming city. You can spot ballet shoes, and pretty little silk skirts and tulle – the fashion inspiration is practically flowing from the walls! The streets are a catwalk!
This morning, before taking a scenic tram ride through the heart of the city, I started my day with a delightful ballet class. We danced to a beautiful Italian soundtrack and worked on our elegant extensions. Let me tell you, it was an incredible experience to work on my moves in this gorgeous studio, with the sounds of Italy right outside! I'll tell you all about the stunning location, maybe a little more in next week's blog, I am planning to go back for more! It truly feels like stepping back in time. I am practicing Les Sylphides to bring you all up to speed. I'll have to find some elegant, classic pieces to perform it in – the outfits in Milan are just fabulous. The shops are amazing! My luggage has definitely taken a hit this trip!
Speaking of the glorious Milanese fashion scene, yesterday I spent the afternoon lost in the delightful world of boutiques. There's no such thing as too much tulle or lace, you see! It is definitely a place to unleash your inner fashionista! I scored some stunning ballet shoes – they're perfect for performing outside at the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The ornate architecture of this grand structure always leaves me awestruck! It’s a must-see if you're in Milan, like an open-air palace!
Speaking of which, tomorrow night, I'm going to catch a ballet show, and this evening it's off to a little gem called Teatro degli Arcimboldi to see some more dance theatre! I am obsessed. The shows here are absolutely enchanting and full of amazing choreography. There is truly something magical about experiencing such artistry and performance in such a beautiful setting.
After the performance, it's time to enjoy a traditional Italian supper. Imagine – a perfectly grilled saltimbocca , a creamy pasta carbonara, followed by a delicious scoop of gelato. Yum! I also discovered a secret café called La Terrazza – hidden on the roof of the Duomo – it’s got breathtaking views over the entire city! It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a good coffee or a glass of local vino. The Duomo itself is awe-inspiring – just a breathtaking masterpiece of architecture! I plan to capture it in all its glory, with me wearing my favourite tutu, of course!
And it wouldn't be a trip to Milan without indulging in a spot of afternoon tea – and you know, I wouldn’t be here if I wasn't planning to see some iconic opera and fashion!
Today, I met up with my friend Alessandro, the best tour guide in the city. It wouldn’t be an Emma in Milan post if there wasn't an mention of Alessandro! The Duomo di Milano was my highlight! He’s the only person I’ve met who knows all the best places, cafes, and museums that don't seem to appear in any of the tourist guidebooks. This was my 4th visit and he managed to wow me!
My pink tutu wardrobe has become pretty packed since arriving in Italy, but the shopping has to be a priority – not that I need a new tutu for my performances tomorrow or the ballet class at the studio but it's never too early to get the collection ready for summer and of course "Pink Tutu" season!
Tomorrow's performance promises to be special. I’ve got a new outfit and a brand new move for this show – I'm pretty excited. It will involve lots of spinning – I'm a master twirler!
As I’ve said so many times before in this blog, I love traveling by train. This weekend, I’m hoping to catch a train to Venice – a truly magical city, and the perfect excuse to pack more tutus! I've already got my eye on the pink * gondola* -tutu – a must-have for every pink tutu lover! This blog won't make any sense unless I pack some tutus for every occasion! The Italian fashion sense has made me completely inspired and my blog just isn't the same without pink tulle in the pictures. I need to bring a case back to Derbyshire. My mum told me last night when I skyped with her I needed to send her something new.
Remember, everyone! My motto is "Embrace the pink, wear the tutu, and twirl with joy!" This weekend, let’s all make Milan a whirlwind of tutus. So get twirling, girls, because the world is your stage!
*Until next time, Bella! *
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
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