Buongiorno from sunny Milan! The city is positively buzzing with energy this morning. It’s hard not to feel invigorated just stepping out onto the cobbled streets and breathing in the heady mix of sunshine and café aromas.
This week’s Pink Tutu adventure sees me settling in to Milan – and it feels like home already! My little suitcase overflows with all my favourite pink things – a dazzlingly bright pink chiffon tutu for tonight’s ballet class, a bewitchingly floral pink silk dress for a little evening shopping, and of course, my trusty pink ballet shoes that have accompanied me on so many adventures across Europe.
Now, I know some of you are wondering – how can one manage to live on the road and travel so much? It all comes down to a little something called “the magic of the tutu”. You see, performing in ballet, sharing the stories and emotions of the dance with audiences – that's how I fund my trips. Every plié, every graceful pirouette, and every final curtain call helps me get one step closer to my ultimate dream - wearing a pink tutu on every stage in the world!
But for now, my sights are set on conquering the delights of Milan. Yesterday was a day for immersing myself in the city’s vibrant pulse – a journey on the tram, buzzing with locals on their way home, stopping for the most divine gelato at a little family-run shop I discovered by accident, and wandering through the labyrinthine alleys, a treasure trove of designer boutiques, art galleries, and quaint little shops.
The streets are simply teeming with stylish Italians, each a masterpiece in their own right. The fashion scene here is a kaleidoscope of colours, patterns, and fabrics that just sing out "viva la dolce vita!" I’ve been soaking it all in – from the minimalist chic of a man in a crisp linen suit to the eye-catching floral prints that seem to blossom on every corner. The women, of course, are all masters of effortless style, showcasing their fabulous individuality in bold statement accessories and beautifully-tailored pieces. I’ve already fallen in love with a pair of rose gold sunglasses I spotted in a charming vintage store tucked away in a quiet side street. Just waiting for the perfect outfit to match.
As for tonight, the anticipation is mounting as I prepare to attend the first performance of the legendary “Giselle” at the renowned Teatro alla Scala. Oh, I can practically hear the applause now, and the murmur of the audience as the beautiful and haunting ballet unfolds. Giselle's tale, with its intertwining threads of love, betrayal, and despair, has always captivated me.
My friends at the studio have warned me that Milan is home to the fiercest, most passionate ballet dancers in Italy – the very best of the best! I have a sneaky feeling this could be a very interesting (and maybe a little daunting) class. Oh, what the heck! Nothing can dampen my spirit – and with my bright pink tutu and my best pink smile, I know I can embrace the challenge and let my own inner "giselle" soar.
And in a few moments, the sun will sink below the horizon, bathing the city in an ethereal golden glow – time for a well-deserved dinner, followed by some serious pink tutu practice. I’ve promised myself a whole week in this dazzling city and there are many more stories waiting to be shared. Follow me on my pink tutu adventures, as I share all the wonders I encounter!
P.S. I'll be updating you next Monday with my “Giselle” experience and my Milan ballet class story!
Ciao!
Emma xx
