Buongiorno bella!
Merry Christmas from a gloriously sunny Milan! Can you believe it's already Christmas Day? This year feels like it's flown by. Maybe it's all the twirling, travelling and festive fun? 😉
Today, I'm whisking you all away with me on a magical tour of Milan. Think sparkling lights, ornate churches, delicious gelato and, of course, a whole heap of pink tulle! Let's get started!
From Derbyshire to Milan
So, how did a Derbyshire girl like myself end up in fashion-forward Milan, you ask? Well, let me tell you, it's been a whirlwind journey. It all began with a life-long passion for ballet and a burning desire to share my love for tutus with the world! I decided to swap the rolling Derbyshire hills for the bustling streets of Europe, travelling from city to city, spreading the pink tutu gospel through dance, fashion and (of course) a generous dose of glitz and glamour.
This week, my pink-tutu clad feet took me on a glorious train ride to the fashion capital of Italy - Milan. I always love arriving by train. There’s something so wonderfully romantic and evocative about chugging through countryside and cityscapes, watching the world go by from the carriage window. The only downside? Not enough space to fully unfurl my tutu. Imagine the sight! 😉
The Ballet Box is Open!
No visit to Milan is complete without a visit to the majestic Teatro alla Scala, Italy’s grand opera house, known worldwide for its architectural brilliance and world-class performances. Today, it’s a special occasion: “La Fille mal gardée” by Frederick Ashton, set to a gorgeous score by Herold.
The energy buzzes in the air as I join the throngs of opera-loving fans heading into the theatre. The smell of jasmine and anticipation fills my nostrils. Oh, the joy of entering the world of live performance!
And tonight, oh my darling readers, the theatre explodes with colour! The story of a headstrong young woman refusing an arranged marriage in favour of true love is brought to life with masterful precision. The dancers swirl in vibrant costumes, their feet a flurry of movements, the tutus billowing like clouds of fluffy pinkness. It's like stepping into a dream!
As the final curtain falls and the audience erupts in thunderous applause, my heart soars with excitement. What a gift to witness such talent and artistic genius! And then, the sweetest of surprises! I'm whisked backstage to meet the Prima Ballerina herself! Talk about a Christmas miracle! I get to spend a few moments chatting with her and even share some of my "Pink Tutu" story with her!
Milan’s Chic Side: Shopping & Aperitivo
Christmas day in Milan calls for indulging in the city's sophisticated style! With a flourish of my pink tulle skirt, I hit the designer boutiques of the Quadrilatero della Moda, the city's famous fashion district. It's a veritable haven for all things chic!
And it's not just the boutiques! Milan's streets themselves are an inspiration. Walking along via Monte Napoleone and via della Spiga, I’m transported to a world of Italian elegance – stylish Milanese women gliding past in stunning coats and bold hats, the scent of fresh espresso in the air.
No fashionista can resist a stop at one of Milan's iconic department stores, where the latest designs are showcased alongside the greatest of fashion classics. I just had to indulge in a few pieces for myself, of course, but don't worry, it was mostly the accessories – pink pumps to match my pink tutu! 😉
By late afternoon, my pink tutu has acquired quite the fashion upgrade and my tummy is rumbling for a classic Milanese Aperitivo.
Imagine: a tiny, atmospheric bar overflowing with people enjoying delicious finger food, nibbling on olives, sipping on sparkling prosecco, and chatting animatedly in a language that sounds like beautiful music to my ears! I can't help but wish that I had learnt Italian! Oh, how I love to be swept away by the beauty and culture of other lands!
Milan by Night
The final act of my Milan Christmas unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of the city lights. After a delicious Christmas dinner in a cosy trattoria near the Duomo, I take a leisurely stroll, taking in the beauty of the illuminated streets and buildings. The magnificent Duomo, bathed in warm gold, looks like it has come straight from a fairytale. I wander past its imposing stone arches, taking time to soak in the twinkling lights, the joyful sound of laughter and the intoxicating aroma of festive spices floating in the night air.
Christmas in Milan is a special kind of magic.
A Message from the Pink Tutu Queen
So there you have it, my darlings – my magical Milan Christmas Day! From the magic of the ballet to the allure of fashion, this trip has been full of joy, inspiration, and a whole lot of pink tulle. Remember, the world needs more sparkle and a whole lot more pink tutus! It's all about bringing joy, spreading kindness and celebrating the beauty of dance!
Don't forget to visit the "Pink-Tutu" website next week, where I'll be sharing more fabulous adventures from my journey!
Until then, remember to always wear your tutu with pride and never be afraid to twirl!
**Sending you love from sunny Milan,
Emma**
P.S. I'm always looking for new ways to inspire others to embrace their own pink tutu moments. So, tell me your thoughts! What inspires you to add a bit of twirl to your day? Let me know in the comments below!
