Ciao bella! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast, and today, I'm writing to you from the heart of Milan, a city that’s got me feeling like a ballerina in a perpetual twirl. This is post number 256 for my Milan adventures, which I share every Monday on my website www.pink-tutu.com - pop by and say hello!
This week in Milan, everything is a whirl of colour, excitement, and, of course, a generous helping of pink. Just like me! After all, my mission is to bring a sprinkle of tutus and a dash of joy to the world, one pink tutu at a time.
As a ballerina, I’ve got to tell you, Milan is just magic. This is a city where fashion reigns supreme, and where every corner is an inspiration for a new costume design or a graceful movement. Just the other day, I spotted a stunning floral display bursting with pink peonies and roses – it's practically begging me to create a new ballet choreography!
And talking about choreography, the city is bursting with performances that keep my toes tapping and my head spinning with inspiration. On Tuesday evening, I found myself mesmerised by the Teatro alla Scala's captivating production of La Traviata. Oh my goodness, the costumes! And the drama! I'm still replaying the grand finale in my head, complete with its stunning tableau and the most perfect final pose.
This week, I was also fortunate enough to catch a breathtaking ballet performance at the Teatro Arcimboldi, and, trust me, it had me longing to practice some pliés at the barre. Let's just say, this ballet made me fall head over heels in love with Milan even more!
Of course, I can't talk about Milan without mentioning its charming tram system. Let’s face it, every trip here feels more like a balletic waltz than a mundane commute. Gliding through the streets in my pink tutu, watching the city whizz by – it’s pure enchantment! This week, I discovered a hidden gem tucked away near the tram station - a tiny little cake shop with the most delightful rosewater meringue pastries you ever did see! I simply couldn't resist.
As a travel-loving ballerina, my love for exploring Milan isn’t just about the iconic sights and grand opera houses – it's also about immersing myself in the heart of its vibrant local culture.
So, of course, I've been putting my dancing shoes to good use and attending some fabulous ballet classes this week at the Ballet School Milan. My oh my, their instructors are just fabulous! The graceful moves and elegant routines were quite literally inspiring me to reach for my pointe shoes!
Beyond the beauty of Milan’s grand ballet performances and charming boutiques, it's the everyday scenes that truly captivate my heart. I simply love spotting the Milanese strolling around with their effortlessly stylish outfits - they’re practically models in their own right!
Yesterday, while on my way to explore the Duomo's impressive cathedral, I spotted the most gorgeous woman wearing a billowing blush pink dress. She even had a delicate floral pin at her wrist! I think I was a little bit star-struck! Her style was so quintessentially Milanese – a perfect blend of classic elegance with a touch of daring femininity. I know you all will agree when I say: Every woman should feel like a ballerina at some point in her life!
That same day, I got a chance to enjoy the magnificent Piazza del Duomo, where, I think I have a hunch the inspiration for so many balletic stories has stemmed from – you just can’t help but be blown away by its architectural splendour and vibrant energy. This, I’m sure, you'll agree, is one of Milan’s true highlights.
But enough about the breathtaking sights! One of my biggest passions alongside ballet and tutus, you know, is clothes shopping! So, of course, no trip to Milan would be complete without a detour to Via Monte Napoleone for a dose of retail therapy. I managed to snag myself the most gorgeous pair of pale pink ballet flats that will be absolutely perfect for twirling my way through the city in the coming weeks! And of course, let’s not forget a beautiful pale pink shawl! My wardrobe is overflowing with all the most exquisite pink accessories to bring a bit of fairytale whimsy to every occasion!
Speaking of occasion, if you haven’t been to a grand party here in Milan yet, you have to see this city sparkle at night!
Every night this week has been magical, from glamorous soirées to lively street parties that practically invite you to let loose your inner ballerina and waltz the night away! My dancing shoes have seen so much action this week! But what’s more, you can always trust Milan to put on a spectacular fashion show. My oh my, the vibrant costumes! They're always brimming with so much creativity and so perfectly styled! It's the sort of fashion that simply makes you want to leap for joy. And let's be honest, everyone secretly wants to twirl around like a ballerina. That's why I've got a message for you, beautiful souls! Embrace your inner twirl, ladies and gents! Go on, give a little twirl for the fun of it, or even a big one if you feel adventurous. You might even feel the need to channel your inner ballet diva!
To support myself financially, I regularly perform in ballet shows, street performances and sometimes even on stage, for any number of venues and audiences, be they local or visiting, who'd like to experience the world of a ballerina, up close and personal. So, I have to keep practicing and, oh my goodness, it is always exhilarating to work with the amazing people in Milan who can make those magical, awe-inspiring performances come to life. I have made the most amazing contacts, I tell you!
I have to give credit to where it is due, for it is truly inspirational seeing all the talented young dancers here who give up so much time to dedicate themselves to this craft, which truly keeps me motivated and pushing me further and further.
To those of you who haven't discovered the magic of Milan, consider this my personal invitation to take a trip to this extraordinary city. Be sure to bring your twirling shoes, an abundance of confidence and your very best pink tutu - I dare you to show everyone you meet in Milan how to make your pink tutu magic happen.
Milan has captured my heart – its graceful streets, elegant stores and its enchanting energy. You have to embrace its vibrancy and beauty, which you can just soak up like the afternoon sun. The more you embrace the magic of the world, the more magical it becomes. The more you dance, the more life brings to the dance floor. As I am sure many of you will agree! It’s what I love most about it. It's a reminder to all of us to let our hearts lead the way, to embrace joy and colour, and most of all, to never be afraid to let your inner ballerina shine. So let your inner diva bloom and shine and you'll never feel quite as amazing. Don’t just stand there, let’s twirl! Until next week, my dearest readers!
Ciao ciao!
Emma 💖 🩰
