Buongiorno, darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-clad ballerina, writing to you live from the fashion capital of the world - Milan! It's Wednesday, 21st of May, 2003, and the sunshine is as bright as my favourite tutu, which, as you know, is the one with the multi-coloured sequins and a fluffy pink feather boa. Oh, to twirl in this glorious weather!
I've been here in Milan for a week now, and it's been a whirlwind of culture, fashion, and, of course, ballet! My trip has been sponsored by my amazing local dance school back in Derbyshire, so naturally I've been sharing my journey with everyone via www.pink-tutu.com. I can't believe it's my 415th post - I just want to give a big hug to every one of you lovely readers!
So, where do I begin with this fabulous city? Let's talk about the trams, shall we? My heart sings when I hear that iconic "ting-a-ling" sound as the tram arrives, because it means an adventure awaits! The trams in Milan are absolutely charming - they have that timeless elegance you just don't see anymore. Imagine yourself, my dears, seated in a plush red velvet seat, peering out the window at the city's dazzling streetscapes. Perfect for people-watching, you know? It's all part of my "Pink Tutu World Tour" and the absolute best way to get around, far more romantic than that stuffy, cramped metro.
A Dance of Style:
Now, my darlings, the fashion! I've spent countless hours wandering through the Milanese shops, getting lost in a sea of vibrant colours, exquisite fabrics, and intricate designs. Oh, to have an endless supply of beautiful things to wear! This city is just brimming with elegance, it truly is the fashion mecca! I picked up the most exquisite pink silk scarf for my mother yesterday - it has little ballerina figurines embroidered onto it! I even managed to snag myself a new, soft pink, chiffon ballet wrap to wear for my evening class - you know how much I love a new costume!
My Ballet Adventures:
But what's a pink-tutu-wearing ballerina without her ballet fix? You betcha, darling! Last night I saw a breathtaking performance of Swan Lake at the Teatro alla Scala. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the dancers, the grace, the fluidity of their movements. The theatre itself was like a fairy-tale, so majestic!
Of course, I had to get my own ballet fix. This morning, I went to a ballet class at the prestigious Centro Danza. It's located in a beautifully restored old building with high vaulted ceilings and wooden floors that felt like magic under my toes. The class was challenging, but it was so much fun! And imagine, just a few short years ago, I would be stuck in my Derbyshire studio with the same dusty old bar and an instructor who barely made it through his routines. Oh, how lucky I am to have found the Pink Tutu World!
Pink Tutu Treats
You'd never believe how much fantastic gelato I've devoured during my trip. My dear friends, this city really knows how to treat a pink-tutu-wearing girl! A scoop of creamy pistachio followed by a luscious strawberry swirl - oh, it’s the dreamiest way to end the day. And then there's the coffee. I can't resist a cappuccinooo with my little pink heart-shaped biscuit, sitting at a chic, outside café, watching the Milanese crowd go by. It's like something out of a movie!
Meeting a Fashion Icon!
Speaking of meeting people, I actually had the opportunity to chat with a very famous Italian fashion designer! Can you imagine, dear friends, this pink-tutu-wearing girl sitting in a high-end atelier, sipping champagne, discussing fabrics, colours, and, well, life, with one of the fashion world's biggest names? You have to believe in magic!
I actually told her all about my dreams to share my passion for ballet with the world and get everyone twirling in a pink tutu, and, you won’t believe it, she’s going to donate some of her creations for a Pink Tutu Fundraiser event I’m going to host when I get back! She really thought I had a spark! Isn't that the most incredible news?!
Sharing Pink Tutu Magic
There's something really special about sharing my passion for pink tutus, ballet, and the beauty of the world with all of you, darling friends. My little pink world has blossomed far beyond anything I could ever have dreamed. I can't wait for all of you to join me on this fantastic journey! And trust me, there’s so much more pink tutu magic to come. I have some exciting new developments, including the grand launch of my new ballet shoe range in collaboration with one of the world's most iconic footwear designers (Can you guess who it is?!), and, oh my goodness, don’t you think a pink-tutu-inspired perfume would be simply heavenly? I have a secret feeling something wonderful is on the horizon….
So, keep on twirling, darlings, and stay tuned for more updates on www.pink-tutu.com. Remember, there's a pink tutu for everyone - just keep believing in magic! Ciao Bella!
PS. I have a few quick little glimpses of my adventure for you - do look at these delightful photographs that I have been busy snapping as I go…
(Emma includes a slideshow with the following photographs taken by her on this trip and accompanied by short descriptive captions:
- Pink Tutu on the Tram - A smiling Emma in her vibrant pink tutu, perched gracefully on a red velvet seat on the tram.
- The Ballet Shop - Emma examining the exquisite ballet shoes, with a backdrop of delicate fabrics, satin ribbons, and graceful forms.
- A Touch of Magic - Emma’s photo at the Teatro alla Scala, gazing at the beautifully ornamented facade with a wistful, dreamlike expression.
- Fashion Delight - A stylish outfit snap with Emma sporting a gorgeous pink silk scarf and her fabulous, ballet-inspired, knee-length pink chiffon dress.
- The Grand Opening – a snapshot of Emma holding a ribbon and a dazzling new pink satin pair of ballet shoes (to be revealed soon, apparently!), her smile positively radiant!
(Emma finishes with her signature sign off)
Much love and happy twirling,*
Emma
(Pink Tutu Blogger Extraordinary!)
