Buongiorno, darlings! It's Wednesday, 27th October, 2004, and guess what? Your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed blogger is back in Milan! This city, it just grabs me by the tutu and whisks me away with its romance and, dare I say it, its fab fashion.
This week has been a whirlwind of ballet, beautiful boutiques, and enough delicious pasta to make even the strictest diet crumble. You wouldn't believe the bargains I found in Via Montenapoleone! A gorgeous, blush-coloured cashmere cardigan for a steal – I'm talking bargain-tastic. Of course, the price is a secret, because, well, a girl's got to have her secrets, right?
But enough about me and my fabulous shopping spree, let's talk about what's really important – the ballet! This week, I had the absolute pleasure of attending a stunning performance of Giselle at the Teatro alla Scala. Oh my, it was magical! The dancing was exquisite, the costumes were beyond dreamy (those white tutus, they were pure perfection), and the music, well, it simply made me want to leap onto the stage and pirouette alongside the beautiful dancers.
It was a wonderful mix of romance, drama, and that effortless elegance that only the great ballets can offer. I especially loved the tender, heartbreaking scenes between Giselle and her lover, Albrecht. Such poignant emotion conveyed through just movement and gesture – pure ballet genius! Speaking of romance, have you ever noticed how Milan feels so... romantic? Perhaps it's the beautiful architecture, or maybe it's the warm, sunny days and starry nights. Or, dare I say, it's all the wonderful men I spot whilst dashing through the streets. ;)
After the ballet, a little treat was in order, wasn't it? And by treat, I of course mean a giant scoop of pistachio gelato from the most enchanting gelateria just around the corner from the opera house. They serve it in a delicate, hand-painted cup, no less. I felt like I was in a fairytale! But it wouldn't be a true Milanese experience without a little slice of local life. I love how in this city, there are these wonderful, little squares, each with its own unique character. So, after my gelato, I popped by one of the squares close to the theatre for a quick chat with a group of ladies who seemed to be regulars there. We discussed life, the universe, and, of course, ballet. Isn't it amazing how a common love can unite us all? It’s a lesson for the world, truly.
The week flew by so quickly, and before I knew it, it was Thursday – and time for me to find a perfect new pink tutu! My collection is growing at a remarkable pace, you know. This time, it was a full-length tulle number in the most delicate shade of bubblegum pink, with a delightful sprinkling of sequins. It’s absolutely perfect for pirouettes under the Milanese moon. And as if it couldn't get any better, I managed to find the perfect matching top - a crop top with delicate pink embroidery. What can I say, when you see it, you just have to buy it. My little ballet heart practically did a triple pirouette!
But the week wasn’t all pink and sequins – my Friday was spent soaking up the local culture, or at least what I call local culture, which is wandering around the streets and taking in the architecture, the smells and the sights of the city. My favourite pastime in Milan. You can feel the rich history just bubbling beneath the surface of the cobblestones. This Friday, however, took a surprising turn when I came across a street performance by a group of street dancers, right in front of the Duomo! Imagine my surprise – these dancers weren't just flailing around, no, they were graceful, powerful, and simply awe-inspiring. They even incorporated a few ballet moves into their performance, and I swear I spotted a ballerina tutu somewhere in the mix. You see, there really are ballet-loving hearts everywhere, if you just look hard enough! I have to admit, I did a little happy dance of my own as they finished their performance. It really brought out the inner showgirl in me! Later that evening, I decided to indulge in another slice of the Italian lifestyle: a delightful evening at a local trattoria, tucked away on a small cobbled street, where I enjoyed a plate of the most delicious spaghetti alla carbonara, accompanied by a local red wine. What can I say, I have a healthy appetite for good food, wine and... well, just everything that makes life lovely.
Now, before I leave you for the weekend, I must share my grand plan with you – it's a mission to bring a touch of pink tutu magic to every city I visit. You know, make the world a bit more joyful, a bit more glamorous. Maybe it’ll become a movement? Perhaps I should get my website guy, Fred, to make some merchandise... hmm, pink tutu branded t-shirts! What do you think, my dear readers?
So, dear reader, as the sun begins its slow descent over the magnificent Duomo, I’ll leave you with a few photos of my Milan adventures. Don’t forget to check back on Monday for more Pink Tutu Milan adventures, where I’ll be delving deeper into this beautiful city! And in the meantime, may your life be filled with glitter, sparkle, and enough pirouettes to fill a whole stage. Until next time, ciao bella!
Your favourite pink tutu-loving blogger, Emma xx
