Ciao from Milan, darling! 🩰☀️
It's Wednesday again, which means it's time for another dose of pink tutu fun from the fashion capital of Italy! This week, Milan has been bubbling with the kind of excitement only a fashionista ballerina could dream of. As you all know, I’m obsessed with all things twirling, from the graceful moves of a ballerina to the effortless swirl of a full skirt. And here in Milan, my dear readers, it feels like the whole city is a runway!
Let me take you on a whirlwind tour of my week…
From Derbyshire to the Dolce Vita
I flew into Milan from the quaint Derbyshire countryside on Sunday, leaving behind the rolling hills and quaint villages for the bustling streets and sleek skyscrapers. I absolutely love the contrast between my life in the countryside, a world of tea and scones, and my life as a travelling ballerina in the fast-paced world of Milan, a city where the cappuccino comes with a side of haute couture! This week's trip was all about ballet, of course, but with a touch of my usual pink tutu twist. I was here for the annual “Milan Ballet Week,” a dazzling festival celebrating the beauty and magic of dance. It's not often you get a chance to immerse yourself in such a diverse world of ballets, and I was thrilled to be there!
Ballet Bliss on the Banks of the Naviglio
Milan is not just about glamorous catwalks, you know! I found a treasure of a studio nestled amongst the cobbled streets and canal-side charm of Navigli. The Naviglio Grande, a historic canal, adds an element of quiet grace and tranquility to this lively district, making it a charming spot to wander and soak up the Italian atmosphere. But on a Monday afternoon, it was my chosen spot for a ballet class, where I was happily welcomed by a group of fellow enthusiasts with big smiles and even bigger leaps! They were eager to see a new face in the class, and we shared a lovely hour or two, stretching, swirling and learning new moves in the beautifully sunlit studio. It's always lovely to practice my leaps and turns in a new setting.
Street Fashion Inspiration
You can't talk about Milan without mentioning its fashion. I’ve seen some incredible styles on my travels here. Even the everyday clothes of the Milanese seem to exude a chic and elegant air, almost as if each outfit has been carefully planned and designed! And don't get me started on the shoes! These fabulous ladies have a pair of perfect heels for every occasion – be it a walk down the Corso Buenos Aires, a leisurely afternoon lunch at a chic cafe, or a glamorous evening at the theatre.
One of the best things about being in Milan is that you can find inspiration just by walking down the street! There's a real buzz of creativity here, and everyone seems to have a sense of their own style. From the sleek tailoring to the bold use of colour, Milan really does have something for everyone!
The Glamour of Teatro alla Scala
Milan is a haven for ballet lovers, with several world-renowned opera houses, each boasting incredible productions, stunning scenery and dazzling dance performances. And what ballet enthusiast could resist a visit to the Teatro alla Scala, or “La Scala” as it’s affectionately known?
Now, I’ve never been someone to shy away from a little drama! So on Tuesday evening, I ventured into the heart of the La Scala Opera House to witness the magic unfold. I was blown away!
This historic theatre is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, the intricate decor of the stage, and of course, the unparalleled artistry of its performances. I sat entranced, taking it all in! Every detail was crafted with such passion and precision, from the hand-painted backdrops to the glittering costumes, each perfectly tailored for its specific performance. This theatre is a marvel to behold, and its legendary performances, rich in history and timeless tradition, were captivating from start to finish. I swear, my jaw hit the floor with every pirouette and arabesque. It’s hard not to be swept away by the magic of it all!
Pink Tutu and Fashion Finds
After the performance, my friends and I decided to continue the night in style by wandering through the enchanting Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Now, anyone who knows me knows I love a good shopping trip – especially in a city as chic as Milan! The Galleria is truly an architectural masterpiece, with beautiful glass-domed ceilings, and an abundance of luxurious shops lining its arches. We strolled, stopping to admire the displays in boutiques offering the finest Italian leather goods, handcrafted jewellery, and of course, beautiful dresses, blouses and everything in between! I even picked up a few pieces of jewellery and a beautiful embroidered scarf that matched my latest pink tutu, something to wear to the next big event back in Derbyshire, you see!
Milan, a true haven for the passionate and dedicated shopaholic! I indulged in a leisurely morning browse in the department store “La Rinascente”, one of the most iconic shopping centres in Milan, I always go in for a browse and always manage to leave with a shopping bag overflowing with amazing items! There’s just so much inspiration! From stylish shoes, dresses and handbags to delicious artisanal Italian chocolates, there was something for everyone. This shopping centre always puts me in a fantastic mood. The mood to buy a pink tutu, you see.
Eating like a Queen
Of course, no trip to Milan would be complete without experiencing the city’s incredible culinary delights! From traditional Italian pasta dishes and hearty risotto to creamy tiramisu and decadent gelato, Milan has it all!
Travel Inspiration for All
This week’s adventures took me across the city on Milan’s famous red trams – it's a great way to see the city, and, let’s be honest, a lovely chance for some window-shopping as you rumble along! The trams really do whisk you along from one exciting corner of the city to another, transporting you past stunning architecture and beautiful hidden piazzas.
And as the weekend approached, it was time to say "Ciao for now" to this vibrant city. But don't you worry, darling! I'll be back! After all, a ballerina always comes back for more, especially if it means finding another incredible ballet show or a new place to enjoy a delicious cappuccino. And perhaps a visit to my favourite pink tutu boutique…
My next blog post?
Now, I’m currently planning a special trip to the theatre back in England, so my next post will be all about the shows I see there! But in the meantime, let me know what you think about my Milan adventures. And let me know if you’re thinking about adding a pink tutu to your wardrobe – maybe you’d join me for a little twirl at the next event. I’m looking forward to reading your comments.
Stay twirling! Emma
P.S. What colour would you go for in your first pink tutu? Tell me your choices in the comments section! 😉 I'm just bursting with exciting ideas, but I'd love to hear yours, too!
