Ciao, darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad ballerina, Emma, reporting live from the fashion capital of the world - Milan, Italy! I can already feel the energy buzzing in the air. The vibrant streets are a kaleidoscope of colours, with stunning architecture at every turn, and everyone seems to be in a hurry to get somewhere – and trust me, darling, it's always to something fabulous! This week is overflowing with exciting shows, shops bursting with beautiful treasures, and the promise of a delicious cappuccino, of course.
As you know, this Monday is my weekly post for my beloved pink-tutu.com website, and today's theme is all about capturing the spirit of Milan – a city that whispers both chic sophistication and artistic soul. So grab your favourite pink tutu (and maybe a spot of afternoon tea, or shall I say, caffe macchiato? I certainly will!), let's take a little trip down memory lane, and then we'll delve into what makes Milan, well, Milan!
My Journey Back in Time - Memories of Pink Tutues & Ballet Shows
Milan feels like it was designed by someone with a real understanding of ballet, don’t you think? Just looking at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – a breathtaking glass-vaulted shopping centre - and you’d be forgiven for thinking you've stepped into an Italian ballerina’s dream! The perfect setting for a pas de deux on the cobblestone streets! It reminds me of my très chic time here in the past. My mind fills with images of those enchanting ballet shows - the music, the intricate movements, and the feeling of complete transporting escapism... And, of course, those perfect pink tutus. There are so many wonderful ballet-inspired memories here in Milan, but one particularly shines brightly: my debut performance here!
Ah, how the years fly! The Scala Theatre. Such an amazing venue – truly a beacon for the performing arts. The grandeur of the theatre itself was absolutely breathtaking. The deep velvet curtains, the golden details... everything felt incredibly luxurious and grand, making every performance that little bit more magical.
Speaking of the Scala Theatre, this Wednesday, the 20th of October 1999, I'm actually going back! This is very exciting, as this special anniversary is a fantastic excuse to get back in touch with some old friends and, of course, to indulge in some of my favourite activities:
- A spot of shopping in the fashion capital of the world. Naturally!
- The incredible ballet show at the iconic Scala Theatre. Pure heaven!
Taking in the bustling atmosphere of Milan on foot, of course! It’s all about taking in the beauty of this incredible city!
Milan, a Symphony of Culture & Beauty
Here, in Milan, the past is everywhere! But there’s a certain timeless charm about that! Milan boasts incredible museums, stunning architecture and churches like Duomo, a symbol of Milan that’s incredibly dramatic and quite simply breathtaking. Its history whispers from every street corner, inviting us to pause and truly admire the detail that's poured into the craftsmanship of every statue, every building and even every little detail. You could spend months here, exploring its hidden treasures – like the Castello Sforzesco, the Museo del Novecento, and countless hidden boutiques - and I still haven't discovered it all!
I must confess that, whilst Milan is all about culture, shopping, and amazing coffee, the food here truly delights me! My favourite pastime here, aside from visiting all of those lovely ballet shows (and maybe squeezing in a little boutique shopping!), is finding that special, traditional restaurant.
And I have to admit, a simple Cappuccino with a Cornetto, walking through Milan on a sunny day - pure joy. This city knows how to make one feel truly indulged. And it’s hard to leave once you experience it – especially with a charming cafe culture around every corner. And the coffee is, well, to die for! I don't think my Italian is quite ready for complicated orders, but *caffè macchiato (coffee with milk) and cappuccino always bring a smile to my face - even though I can never resist ordering another. The energy and rhythm of this place make me want to swirl like a ballerina. Oh! What fun! I just feel incredibly lucky that my ballet performances allow me to fund these incredible journeys, travelling in this fun, fast, pink tutu world. And to be honest, with my hectic schedule of travelling and performances, there are very few days in my week where I actually have time to take a little siesta - much to the relief of my local baker, as I can’t really get enough pastries - that lovely Italian cream - it just brings me joy, especially after the shows!
On Wednesdays We Wear Pink Tutus & Embrace a Dash of Glamour
Of course, I must confess, it wouldn’t be me if I didn't go all-out with a touch of colour! My pink tutu is an essential companion! From exploring museums to strolling around a busy market, a vibrant pink tutu never fails to turn heads - and who wouldn't want a bit of that fun and colour in their lives?
And believe me, with my own favourite pink tutus and those fabulous shops on the Via Montenapoleone, I’ve definitely fallen for the allure of fashion here, and the amazing collections you see at every corner - a feast for the senses! You won't just see an outfit here - you see the complete package! The effortlessness of Italian style is incredibly beautiful, and Milan definitely encourages you to be yourself - with a hint of glam, naturally! I think it’s what inspires me most. You just have to allow your true self to shine through!
Let’s bring that glamour into my Wednesday - I have a very busy day:
Milan’s Best Kept Secrets – Unveiled for You
As the sun climbs in the morning, I will grab a caffe macchiato - the taste, the aromas - just delightful! There is a charming cafe - the Caffè Cova - which feels truly special. And it feels incredibly appropriate. It was founded all the way back in 1817 – just one year after the arrival of Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, making it the perfect location for my favourite ballet performances - and a wonderful spot to catch up with friends, have that delicious cappuccino and enjoy the local Italian culture before my first performance!
At midday, it's off to the Scala Theatre to take in a performance - pure magic! - followed by a tour of this truly captivating and historic theatre. The sheer beauty of its ornate design, the golden statues... I always get so incredibly excited, especially the way they combine classic tradition with the modern world - absolutely exquisite! I often spend a couple of hours just marvelling at the exquisite beauty of the whole building, making sure that I can truly appreciate every intricately-detailed carving! The beauty of it really makes me want to dance and twirl in the main foyer!
And in the afternoon, darling, it’s time for a spot of Milanese glamour! I’ll be venturing to the designer boutiques in Via Montenapoleone – I just adore this area - there are truly fantastic designs here, with amazing fabrics and textures that always catch my eye. Every single store just seems to exude elegance, and there are always exciting window displays to capture your imagination - it's a fashion heaven! The Via Montenapoleone just whispers of exquisite Italian luxury, offering up exquisite craftsmanship, design, and pure artistry... This is where I will be buying some pieces for the collection - especially those that catch my eye in this fashion wonderland! I know that my trip wouldn’t be complete without seeing the breathtaking array of Italian designers and that all-important shop stop - which also serves as a chance to people-watch the fascinating world of Milan - and maybe enjoy a delicious Gelato, and why not?!
The rest of the day will be dedicated to strolling around - this city's streets are truly an art form, especially in the early evening, with the city lights shining. I do try to see a performance when I can – because this city always brings a magical dimension to life - just remember my motto!
Don’t let the world get in the way of a little ballet - or a beautiful pink tutu - even for a day or two!
Of course, darling, there is nothing quite like having that wonderful sense of adventure that a pink tutu and Milan bring - what do you say?! Let’s go have some fun.
Keep twirling and dreaming, Emma xx
