Ciao bella! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, Emma, reporting live from Milan!
This week has been a whirlwind of beautiful ballet, fabulous fashion finds, and a touch of train travel. I always find myself so inspired by this city – it's a symphony of colours, textures, and creativity, all blending together like a beautiful pas de deux. And I just can't help but feel the spirit of fashion dancing around me.
Speaking of dancing, last night I saw the most magnificent ballet performance at Teatro alla Scala. Can you believe it? Me, a Derbyshire girl, in the heart of Milan, watching a performance in one of the world’s most renowned opera houses! I felt like I’d stepped out of a fairytale.
The programme was a selection of pieces by the great ballet master, Marius Petipa. I was captivated by the story of The Sleeping Beauty. The choreography was stunning, every movement so precise and graceful, and the costumes were nothing short of breathtaking. I could have watched them for hours. And the sheer volume of the orchestra! My goodness! Each note, every flourish of the conductor's baton, brought tears to my eyes.
Of course, after a performance of that magnitude, I couldn’t resist popping into a nearby cafe for a slice of lemon meringue and a latte, watching the world go by. This part of Milan is buzzing with life - the most delightful chatter and laughter, interspersed with the sound of music pouring out of nearby bars. It was truly inspiring!
Speaking of inspiring, I think I might have stumbled upon the perfect shop yesterday - an absolute treasure trove of vintage fashion gems! I'm so excited to have snagged this beautiful, hand-stitched dress with the most delicate pink and green embroidery – I can just see it paired with my pink tutu for a charming evening performance.
And it's not just the vintage finds that have me swooning. The shops here are all about individuality and expression, with so much room for whimsy. I saw this fabulous pair of shoes – the kind that make your feet feel like they’re dancing a tango – that reminded me of my ballerina shoes, with their elegant curves and the way they seem to fly off the ground with every step. They just have that undeniable "pink tutu" spirit!
And what do you know? Today I had the chance to hop onto the train and go a little bit further out of Milan. It's the perfect way to take in the views and get a real sense of this part of Italy. I saw charming little towns and villages that were nestled into rolling hills, like so many little stage sets for a delightful play. I couldn't help but think that one day, I’d like to stage a show right here in one of these villages!
The tram was the perfect way to weave through the streets, taking in the vibrant energy of this amazing city. Milan is such a vibrant mix of classical and modern architecture, so much like a grand, theatrical backdrop. The sheer volume of detail in each building, the history that resonates through its very walls - it all fills me with such awe and inspiration!
And of course, you can't talk about Milan without talking about the food! I discovered this lovely little trattoria yesterday with the most amazing selection of pastas – you've never seen such fresh, beautiful colours, each strand twirled perfectly with such delicate care. And the smell! It had me longing for a taste of Italy right from the moment I stepped inside. The little cafe felt like a secret hidden gem in this city – warm, welcoming, full of life. It was like the whole city had paused around me while I enjoyed the best pasta I’ve ever had.
This trip has just shown me how the language of dance can be universal. From the graceful movements of the ballerinas at Teatro alla Scala to the energy of the bustling Milanese streets, every gesture felt like a form of storytelling. And what better way to understand this beautiful city than through the lens of my trusty pink tutu!
I’ll be back next week with more Milan adventures, so don't forget to tune in next Monday for a new post! Until then, be sure to spread the love of dance, wear your own pink tutu, and enjoy the little joys life brings!
With all my love, Emma x
PS My blog posts aren't just my little corner of the internet! They’re a big part of funding my travels and giving me a platform to inspire other dancers to pursue their dreams. So thank you all for joining me on this magical journey. Keep sharing the love of pink tutus! 💖🩰
