Buongiorno, darlings! It's Wednesday, 7th June 2000, and I'm back in my favourite city: Milan! This week, I'm feeling oh so pink and bubbly, just like a glass of prosecco on a sunny day. And it's all thanks to the wonderful Milanese people, their amazing fashion sense, and, of course, the incredible ballet scene!
This is my sixth visit to this glamorous city, and I always feel right at home. The air is electric, a cocktail of chic and creative energy that's impossible to resist. Plus, I feel a little bit of magic each time I step off the train at Milano Centrale, it's like entering a whole new world, a world where dreams are spun from silk and sparkle, where ballet slippers tap a delightful beat on cobblestones, and where the perfect pink tutu is never out of reach.
Last time I was in Milano, it was November, cold and rainy, perfect for exploring hidden cafes and indulging in a steaming mug of hot chocolate. But this time, sunshine is on my side! So naturally, I've swapped my long-sleeved cardigan for a cute cropped cotton cardigan, my black tights for sheer stockings, and I'm sporting a new pink tutu that twirls like a dream. I'm feeling very ready to embrace this lovely summery weather.
My Milanese Adventures Begin...
Straight from the train, I hopped on the tram - those bright red, shiny trams - with their cute little bells and the friendly smiles of the drivers - I swear, these drivers have more style than anyone else in the world. Just ask any fashionable Italian for the latest on the tram style and I'm sure you'll be inundated with style advice! My destination? My little haven, the hotel where I'll be staying for the next few days.
This time, it's a beautiful boutique hotel with an inner courtyard - the perfect place to sip a limoncello, watching the sun set behind the Duomo, all while soaking in the charm of this exquisite city. Did I mention it's just a short walk away from the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, where I'm already planning to spend a delightful afternoon, just window shopping... or maybe not window shopping... oh dear! I wonder if it's too early for shopping. I shall be the judge of that!
First Night Delights...
On this fine evening, I decided to enjoy a pre-dinner glass of Prosecco at a delightful outdoor cafe. The Italian men are just so stylish and sophisticated. I mean, seriously, I'm not exaggerating. And they're so incredibly kind, too! It just seems to be part of their DNA. One handsome man, a bit like George Clooney in his early days (and just as charming!), gave me the best table right in the center of the square. A glass of chilled Prosecco in the setting sun, watching the locals go about their lives... pure perfection.
I spent the evening devouring a delicious pasta dish - this place was all about simple Italian food. I devoured it in the blink of an eye. My mouth is still watering, as I'm typing this! Then I took a wander through the ancient heart of Milan, Piazza del Duomo, where I admired the majesty of the Duomo, its spires reaching for the heavens. Oh, the romance!
My Big Night Out...
And it wasn't long before the grand evening arrived - La Scala! This glorious theatre is so inspiring, the history in this building is palpable, it just oozes glamour, elegance, and sheer perfection. I had secured tickets to see Swan Lake - an absolute masterpiece! I just love that beautiful tragic story. It always tugs at my heartstrings.
The whole night was a symphony of colours, costumes, and dance - truly an enchanting performance. From the dramatic opening scene to the graceful leaps of the ballerina and the melancholic swan song, every moment was captivating. After the final bow, my heart was bursting with joy. I wanted to run onstage, join the dancers, and whirl in that glorious final ballet.
Post-Show Thrills - Shopping Therapy is Key!
After the magical ballet, I just had to explore the vibrant street life, taking in the beauty and magic of this magical city. And oh my, Milan did not disappoint. It's the kind of place where you can wander for hours, discovering new cafes, boutiques, and charming alleyways bursting with artistic delights. Every corner offered a unique visual feast for the senses, and my trusty pink tutu definitely attracted plenty of admiring glances and enthusiastic compliments - "Splendida, fantastica, bella!" I love hearing Italian people express themselves.
Of course, no night in Milan is complete without a little retail therapy. A wander through the trendy boutiques with the aim of finding a cute little something - which inevitably ends up being everything little - a delicate pink top here, a lace handkerchief there, oh, and how can I say no to another gorgeous pair of ballet slippers... And don't even get me started on the handbags, they are simply divine.
I walked the streets feeling fabulous, every inch the Italian beauty, all while imagining the perfect pink tutu outfits for my readers and friends back in Derbyshire. Every turn, every shop window, inspired new outfit combinations for my readers. Oh, I must post a photo of that beautiful pink knitted scarf, it would look stunning with my sparkly ballet shoes! I've got so many new ideas brewing already!
Back to Reality...
So, back in my little hotel, sipping a herbal tea after a busy day and dreaming of tomorrow's exciting schedule... the Milan Fashion week shows have already begun, and I am buzzing! Fashion is so inspiring to me, the creativity, the styles, the colours, everything, and I just love getting to see the newest designs right here, in the birthplace of fashion. Tomorrow is going to be an epic adventure, with front row seats for a runway show! Oh my, I can barely wait. I just know it's going to be fabulous! It's moments like this that truly make life worth living.
And you, darlings, you are all part of my journey, the Pink Tutu story. You're my fashion partners in crime, my fellow twirlers, my inspirational companions on this adventure! Thank you for joining me here in Milan!
I’ll be back next week to tell you all about my fashion show adventures, what trends are inspiring me and where to find that perfect pink tutu in the city of Milan! In the meantime, stay chic and twirl your hearts out! And don't forget, wear a pink tutu today - it might just be the spark you need to light up the world!
Love,
Emma Xxoo
www.pink-tutu.com
