Wednesday 3rd July, 2002
Buongiorno, my darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad travel blogger, Emma, back from the dazzling streets of Milan with another whirlwind of fashion, culture, and, of course, ballet! I must say, the Italian summer has embraced me with open arms, a symphony of sunshine, and the kind of warmth that makes you want to twirl, twirl, twirl!
This week has been a glorious blend of shopping sprees, stunning architecture, and performances that left my toes tingling with joy. I simply adore Milan. This city is a perfect mix of ancient history and modern trends, where every corner offers a delightful discovery.
Pink Perfection on the Piazza
I woke up feeling like a little pink princess! This morning's sunshine, hitting my powder-pink silk top and tulle skirt, created a glow around me, which is a bit tricky for a blonde who hates looking tanned. The sky looked like a pastel dream and the tram to the city center was as crammed as usual! Thankfully the windows opened wide. It's not too hot at the moment, which makes life in a pink tutu far more enjoyable. The view as we crossed over the River Naviglio was delightful. Milan, at least during the day, seems full of life, everyone's walking, and you see them looking their very best for everyone to see, with fashion everywhere and street performers. You have to look good for a beautiful Italian sunset, or at least look good as you rush off to a performance!
A Ballet Blitz: La Scala
Ah, the hallowed halls of La Scala. Tonight's ballet was a spectacle, darling! I won't bore you with the intricacies of the choreography, but let's just say the graceful dancers soared like swans, the costumes shimmered like constellations, and the emotions… well, they danced right through my heart. My programme was beautifully printed, and it came in its own small bag which had the La Scala logo. So cute! A small purchase in the gift shop followed after the show, of course! This little book called "Ballet and fashion", which I had been meaning to get for a while, it is well written but the photos were not good, oh well! But at least they are Italian! You can't beat an authentic feel to a ballet themed souvenir!
Cafè Culture: Indulge Your Inner Prima Ballerina
My shopping expeditions often involve delightful pit stops. My favourite cafe today was tucked away on a little cobblestone street near the Duomo. They had the most delightful pistachio gelato, so refreshingly creamy, a pink sugar rose on the top was just too much fun to refuse.
But shopping is never an individual pursuit in Milan! You'd be surprised who you run into while looking for the perfect silk scarf! My fellow ballerina, Olivia, from London, appeared to be shopping for fabric! Oh, you should see the shops in Milan. The silk shops alone make me want to stay forever, they were filled with sumptuous colors and intricate patterns. I was lucky enough to score a fabulous pale-pink scarf, oh so perfect to throw on as a shawl over a simple white top after the opera and when the trams home get packed and hot! I do adore scarves and am pretty proud of my collection.
Tutu Tuesdays at the Atelier
Next Tuesday is ‘Tutu Tuesdays’! So, this week I've got to focus on ballet and the things that really matter. The next few weeks will see a mix of training and practice and then next Monday, another new post on this, my little pink tutu blog. It's important for me to find time for training in any location, but I've to admit my main focus will be on looking at, and maybe getting a glimpse of some new designer shoes and maybe even a couple of new tutus too!
The Art of the Tram: Milan's Mobile Theatre
And on a final note, I must say, there's a certain magic about travelling around Milan by tram. There’s no getting away from the fact that they get crowded, so I make a real effort to sit in the seats near the open doors if it's hot! But even in these slightly unpleasant conditions, you get an insight into the city's beating heart, and to feel that hum of energy that’s impossible to resist. Today, while en route to the ballet, I watched a couple tango right there on the pavement by the tram stop! Their passion was so raw, their movements so expressive - a little piece of Milan's spirit right there, on the streets.
Until next Monday, my lovely readers, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful things around you, embrace the joy of the simple moments, and never, ever be afraid to let your pink tutu shine!
Arrivederci!
Emma xo
