Ciao, darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina blogger, Emma, back from Milan! This week I've been absolutely spoilt for choice, with enough beautiful sights, captivating shows, and chic fashion moments to fill a whole year. But first, a confession: this week was even more magical than usual thanks to a stunning new addition to my wardrobe – a blush-pink, silk-chiffon tutu, just begging to be twirled in the glorious Italian sunshine. It's been my lucky charm, for sure, as everything in Milan seemed to sparkle a little brighter this week.
Let's rewind to my arrival, shall we? Alighting from the train, the scent of espresso and fresh bread wafted in, and the air buzzed with a charming blend of the classic and the cutting edge – truly Milanese, wouldn't you agree? My little flat in a quaint corner of the city is a true gem, and let's just say, my new pink tutu is taking centre stage on a vintage French dressing table I discovered at a delightful flea market just last week.
Dancing into the Heart of Milan:
Milan wouldn't be Milan without its legendary ballet, and this week's performance of Swan Lake at the Teatro alla Scala left me speechless. The sheer grace and power of the dancers, the captivating choreography, and the exquisite costumes were all a breathtaking blend of traditional grandeur and contemporary edge. You just couldn't help but be swept away, feeling as though you were in a fairytale, twirling and leaping alongside the ballerinas on stage.
Speaking of dancing, it would be criminal to visit Milan without experiencing a performance of ballet street, where the cobblestone streets themselves become the stage. This week I wandered through Piazza della Scala and witnessed a delightful, impromptu performance, a joyous mix of contemporary ballet and acrobatics, right on the pavement! The sheer energy and artistry of these talented performers blew me away. Honestly, Milan truly brings out the dancer in everyone, whether they're gliding across a theatre stage or a city street.
Shopping until your shoes sing:
You all know I love a good fashion splurge, and Milan, my dears, is a shopper's paradise! This week, I delved deep into the fashion archives of Milan's glamorous department stores, from the chic boutiques of Via della Spiga to the timeless elegance of Via Monte Napoleone. I was in my element! From vintage Valentino to contemporary Missoni, every shop seemed to pulse with a sophisticated heartbeat that left me breathless. The colours, the textures, the details! Oh my, it was a feast for the eyes, and my credit card certainly had a very busy week. I even indulged in a delightful new silk scarf – naturally, a shade of the palest pink imaginable – from a charming boutique on Via San Pietro. Honestly, if this week was any indication, my pink tutu and I are destined to make many more shopping adventures in Milan together!
* Tram Tracks to Tram Treats:*
The Milanese trams are, honestly, my absolute favourites! You simply must travel on them to experience the true heart of the city, buzzing with energy, each tramcar a microcosm of the stylish and vibrant spirit of Milan. Every stop feels like an entry into a new chapter in Milan's rich history, from the majestic Duomo to the sleek modern architecture that stretches towards the sky. Plus, nothing beats gazing out the window, sipping on an aromatic cappuccino (naturally, a perfectly steamed, creamy latte), and watching the world go by in a symphony of sounds and sights – the melodic clatter of the tracks, the rhythmic murmur of Italian conversations, the joyous laughter of children playing, and the timeless echo of the city's vibrant heartbeat.
* Tummy Trouble (the Good Kind) and Cultural Treasures:*
To fuel my explorations, I absolutely HAD to have the Milanese risotto al salto. This, my dears, is a culinary delight, each mouthful an explosion of cheesy goodness and rich flavour. And, of course, no trip to Milan is complete without a trip to the Pinacoteca di Brera, a true haven for art lovers, showcasing exquisite masterpieces that took my breath away. I simply couldn't resist snapping a photo of my pink tutu amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Brera Gallery – a testament to how even the most grand art can be enhanced by a touch of whimsy.
More than Just a Pink Tutu, It's a Way of Life
Speaking of whimsical, this whole trip has reminded me why I love spreading the joy of pink tutus so much! It's not just about fashion, it's about embracing joy and playfulness in everything we do. I find that when I wear a pink tutu, it encourages me to be bolder, more daring, more willing to embrace the unexpected.
Just yesterday, I popped into a tiny antique shop I found tucked away on Via Torino. Amongst the dusty volumes and delicate china, I stumbled upon a charming, porcelain ballerina figurine. Not just any ballerina, my dears! She was in a full pink tutu, her face a delicate, dreamy expression, like she was ready to twirl her way into my heart. I couldn't resist her charm, and now, she's nestled amongst my other treasures, a delightful reminder of the day I felt like a little girl again, lost in the enchantment of Milan.
It's Time to Spread the Love!
So, darlings, whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-time explorer, make Milan your next destination! Let yourself be swept away by the elegance and artistry that this magnificent city has to offer. And if you see me flitting by, on the streets, in the theatres, or even amidst the chic crowds of Via Montenapoleone, come say hello, I’m sure my pink tutu will be the perfect conversation starter.
And, remember, my loves, always embrace the magic that's within you, wear your pink tutus with pride, and remember: the world is your stage, waiting for your twirl!
Until next week, my dearest readers,
Emma xoxo
www.pink-tutu.com
