Ciao bellas! It's your favourite pink tutu wearing ballerina blogger back with another week's adventures from fabulous Milan! This is my weekly blog, brought to you from the heart of the fashion world – think Vogue Italia and all the dazzling clothes, shoes and handbags that go with it. And yes, there's lots of ballet too! I love how the elegant Italian city just melts into a swirl of tulle and silk, much like my own favourite costume!
For those who are new here, I’m Emma, a passionate ballet dancer from Derbyshire, England, who decided to ditch the nine-to-five and follow my dream: to spread the joy of the pink tutu to the world! You can follow my journey on this website - www.pink-tutu.com. I travel all around the world, indulging in the wonderful world of ballet and experiencing everything from glittering opera houses to charming street performances. Of course, it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t wear my trusty pink tutu wherever I go!
Right, without further ado, let's jump into my week in Milan:
A Tumbling Tale of Trains and Tram Tracks
I'm so happy to be back in Milan! This week, I took a leisurely stroll to the Duomo, Milan's iconic cathedral, in my favourite, bubblegum pink tutu and a sweet pastel blue cardigan - oh, darling, this combination just made the street lights shine brighter, didn't it? As always, I love how the locals glance my way with amusement and admiration. You've gotta love that Italian attitude. It's almost as though I'm adding a touch of sunshine and laughter wherever I go - who knew that pink could be so expressive?!
Later in the day, I took a nostalgic tram ride to Navigli. I adore the cobbled streets, quaint bridges, and charming canals. As always, it's brimming with life and laughter. I must say, even the tram drivers looked rather enamored by my vibrant pink tutu. Milan always welcomes a little whimsical joy!
Dancing in the City of Fashion
Ah, my darling Milan, you are a magnet for stunning boutiques and glamorous displays, making my shopaholic heart leap for joy! This week, I discovered a new treasure - a shop called Via Montenapoleone on Via della Spiga. I nearly fainted when I saw the shoes. Imagine my delight – all my favourite designers! It felt like a scene straight out of Cinderella’s dreams, but in stiletto heels instead of glass slippers. I managed to escape the temptation of a fabulous pair of sparkly red pumps. My little bank balance couldn't handle it! I settled on a pair of delicate pink ballet flats. They're perfect for a chic ballet dancer like myself! Of course, a new pair of shoes deserves a new outfit, so I'm now dreaming of a beautiful pale pink silk dress - just imagine!
Ballet Bliss at La Scala
Milan isn't just about fashion - it's a mecca for ballet, too! This week, I was lucky enough to attend a performance of La Bayadère at the prestigious Teatro alla Scala. It was absolutely magical! I must admit, my toes were itching to join in. The ballerina's pirouettes, jumps and delicate movements were a pure vision. Every dancer poured their heart and soul onto the stage, leaving the audience mesmerised and spellbound. Oh, to move with such grace! The music flowed through me, creating an orchestra of joy in my heart. The costumes were opulent, shimmering with gold and pearls. My own tutu, although simple in comparison, was still feeling rather glamorous.
After the show, I strolled through Piazza della Scala, buzzing with energy. It felt like my spirit was twirling, just as the ballet dancers on stage. I had such a delicious feeling in my stomach; that indescribable excitement of the artistic world! There’s no place like a grand Italian opera house – I swear the walls whisper tales of ballerinas gone by. It's just breathtaking.
Milanese Marvels & Musings
One of my favourite parts of Milan is the blend of history and modernity. Walking through the streets, you see grand architecture like the Duomo rubbing shoulders with cutting-edge boutiques. That clash of old and new really inspires my artistic side. I love taking inspiration from it! It's something I want to capture in my own choreography - that feeling of grace amidst the modern world!
You know, one thing that I truly admire about the Milanese people is their sense of style. It’s not just about wearing the latest fashions, but about how they carry themselves with confidence. It’s a certain effortless elegance that is contagious! I love to watch them sauntering past, in their tailored outfits and their effortless poise, knowing that beneath that smart dress, a soul full of love for life beats.
It’s as though this elegant air seeps into my own style too - perhaps it's the sunshine, maybe it's the panini (I can’t get enough!), or it might be the charming, graceful pace of life here, but I feel so utterly glamorous! The more I travel the more I realize - I feel the most confident in my tutu, after all, it makes every ordinary outfit feel absolutely amazing.
Ballet Beyond The Stage
While Milan is all about the glitz and glamour, I find the most exciting performances on the street, away from the theatrical spotlights. One afternoon, I happened to stumble upon a group of street performers outside the Sforza Castle. A ballet student was dancing, performing the Grand Jeté with an effortless grace that made me gasp in awe. And here I was, just thinking how to pack my tutu into my travel bag for my upcoming performance... What better inspiration! That girl wasn’t afraid to perform under the open sky - what a fabulous confidence to aspire to. Sometimes, the best performances don't even need an audience - it’s the joy of expression that truly matters.
I spent the afternoon, sketching down ideas for my choreography. It reminded me that even when I feel a little discouraged, the sheer love for dance is an inspiration in itself! Even amidst all the glamour and grand stage shows of Milan, it's the simple passion of everyday dancers that reminds me of why I love the world of ballet so much. I love seeing these ballet enthusiasts just enjoying themselves.
A Milanese Farewell
Well, that’s all from this beautiful Italian city for now. It's time to bid farewell, until next week that is, when I'll be back with more exciting tales of pink tutus and Milan's beautiful sights. I'm heading to Florence next - that's where the Renaissance magic is! You can always follow my journey on Instagram @pinktutu_travels. See you soon, darling, and don't forget to wear pink! It just might make your world a little brighter!
Ciao bella!
Emma
