Ciao, darlings! It's Emma, your resident pink tutu-clad explorer, back from another whirlwind adventure in the fashion capital of Milan. I’m writing to you from my little haven – a charming B&B tucked away in a quiet side street. It’s decorated with soft pinks and the prettiest floral wallpaper, just perfect for a tutu-loving soul like me.
This week has been jam-packed with delights – the kind that makes my heart dance like a ballerina in a full-blown pirouette. I've been scooping up bargains in vintage shops, soaking up the sun at a magical street performance, and of course, catching a breathtaking ballet at the iconic Teatro alla Scala. Let me tell you, this week has been one for the diary!
Now, where to start? Remember how I told you about the gorgeous new blush pink tulle I picked up in Paris? Well, my first stop in Milan was to my trusty seamstress – a wonderful woman who lives in the heart of the city. I knew she was the only one who could give my new fabric the love and care it deserved, and she did not disappoint. We spent the morning crafting a truly bespoke tutu – a delicate, ethereal pink dream, fit for a queen.
Then it was off to explore the charming cobblestone streets. You know me, darling, always on the lookout for a new tutu-wearing companion! Milan did not disappoint – I spied a lovely woman with a magnificent vintage pink tulle skirt dancing down the Via Montenapoleone. It was like a scene from a fairytale – I swear her skirt twirled with the grace of a ballerina. You'd be surprised how much I chat to complete strangers on the subject of tutus. Turns out, my trusty pocket mirror can be quite a conversation starter, "Excuse me darling, would you mind if I checked how the light hits that skirt on you? It reminds me of a lovely pink tutu…" You’d be surprised how easily the topic arises. It always leads to fascinating chats.
I did my usual dash around some of Milan’s legendary vintage shops, snagging up a selection of antique ballet shoes for my collection. And the icing on the cake was finding a genuine vintage pink satin bodice in a tiny hidden store off the beaten track – perfect for that ballerina look I’m aiming for.
And, the absolute highlight of my Milan trip? It happened on Wednesday afternoon. Picture this: The sun dappling through the leaves, the sound of Italian chatter mingling with the melody of a violin, and the aroma of freshly baked pastries from a nearby bakery swirling in the air. And there, on a cobblestone street corner, I found it – the perfect mix of vintage and contemporary street performance. A troupe of young, vivacious dancers were performing an original ballet routine set to the beautiful strains of classical music. Their graceful moves and the pink and lavender tulle that seemed to billow in the wind made the whole scene utterly magical.
It was so refreshing, a stark contrast to the usual polished ballet shows you’d see in the theatre, and a beautiful reminder of how accessible ballet can be. Imagine – ballet for the masses! This sort of spontaneity is exactly what I live for. It made my heart sing, and the desire to put on my tutu and dance alongside them was so strong! (Maybe next time, dear reader, maybe next time…)
Of course, no trip to Milan is complete without experiencing the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala. This Wednesday evening I went to see an exceptional performance of “Giselle” by the Bolshoi Ballet. The entire theatre was awash in an almost religious reverence, and you could practically feel the anticipation crackling in the air as the curtains rose. The story, a tragic love story woven with an ethereal element of magic, moved me to tears, while the incredible performances and intricate costumes made my heart flutter. Every gesture was a delicate masterpiece of beauty, every pirouette a breath of pure grace. It’s moments like these, sitting amongst a sea of elegantly dressed attendees, that truly remind you of the exquisite power of ballet to elevate and transport us to another world.
I even got to enjoy a wonderful aperitivo at the grand Campari bar, just a stone's throw from the theatre. It’s like a trip to Milan isn’t complete without a visit to this historical gem – a symphony of red and white and rich, history infused cocktails. They have a fantastic selection of vintage Campari, perfect for a pre-ballet pep talk.
As I sip my herbal tea, the echoes of the music, the rustling of tulle skirts and the warm chatter of the Milanese still dance in my head. I'm utterly charmed by the vibrant spirit of this city. And it reminds me why my motto is, “Dance your heart out wherever you are, wear your pink tutu, and you will always find joy.” It’s true! It’s about that sense of freedom and adventure – the chance to embrace life’s opportunities and make them your own.
I know that not all of you can be in Milan with me right now. But you can dance with me in spirit! Put on your most fabulous outfit (maybe even that sparkly tutu you’ve been saving for a special occasion), and take a spin around your room. Feel the rhythm of the music inside you, let loose your imagination, and remember, you are the heroine of your own fairytale!
Until next time, darlings! Keep twirling!
Love always, Emma xx
P.S. *Don’t forget to check out the *Pink-Tutu.com website every Monday for a new Milan blog post. And I would love to hear about your tutu adventures! Tweet me @PinkTutuMilan and let's spread the tutu love!
