Wednesday 4th October, 2006
Buongiorno from Milan! The city is abuzz, just like me in my pink tutu. I'm back in Milan after a whirlwind trip to Derbyshire, where I was absolutely swamped with dance recitals. My little dancers in the Peak District just seem to keep getting more talented, and it's my mission to nurture their blossoming passion for all things pink tutu.
But, alas, even a girl who's head over heels for the Peak District has to eventually return to the siren song of Milan! I'm feeling so inspired after my Derbyshire adventure, with new ideas bubbling about tutus, and an exciting project on the horizon. I’ll reveal more soon!
Now, you might be thinking, how can a humble ballet dancer afford to hop from one fashion capital to the next, with barely a second thought about the costs of travelling? Well, I have my secrets… It all comes down to a combination of dedication, passion and... performance fees! My love for dance fuels my life, and the kindness of others has allowed me to turn that passion into my living. It's not easy, it takes dedication and a whole lot of dancing, but the rewards are boundless. I'm forever grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of performance and to share that magic with everyone I meet along the way!
Anyway, enough about me! Back to Milan. This week, the city has me completely enchanted!
I'm currently sitting in one of those quintessential Milanese cafes, with a delicious cappuccinos (double espresso for me, naturally) and a croissant filled with delicate custard. The cafe itself is a symphony of chic design, with polished marble floors, comfortable velvet chairs and walls adorned with faded grandeur.
Milan's always been one of those places where I feel most myself, a sense of belonging I struggle to explain. The air is filled with an electrifying energy. You can feel it pulsing on the streets, seeping through the shop windows, even rustling in the trees in the Botanical Gardens. The energy of art, fashion, culture...and perhaps a tiny bit of the pink tutu spirit too. It's just magic.
Let’s talk Milanese magic – today, my darlings, it was the trams!
Imagine yourself on a tram journey through the city, the sun filtering through the stained glass windows. A gentle melody drifts from a street musician perched on a platform, his music blending seamlessly with the rhythmic rattle of the tram. Outside, Milan whizzes by, a kaleidoscope of architectural styles – imposing medieval buildings jostling for space with modern art deco marvels, and trendy boutiques competing with traditional cobblestone cafes. You glance across the aisle and spot an impeccably dressed woman with a single perfect red rose pinned to her chic coat – that quintessential Milanese elegance! This is what I love about Milan: its contrasts, its energy, its artistic pulse!
My favourite thing about travelling? Exploring cities like a local.
It's about immersing myself in the heart of the city. So, on my way to my cafe rendezvous, I jumped onto the trusty Milanese tram, the one with the floral patterns that feels like stepping into a vintage fairytale. You know, one of those old-fashioned trams, where the conductor punches your ticket with an enthusiastic "Buongiorno" and you can feel the gentle sway of the tram car as it lumbers through the streets. I got off at the Duomo stop, with its soaring spires pointing towards the sky. It never fails to take my breath away.
Did you know the Duomo is absolutely covered in 135,000 square meters of marble?
Talk about grandeur! The Duomo, it seems, isn't just about stunning visuals. Today I discovered a little gem of history tucked away within its walls – the Museo del Duomo. This place is filled with breathtaking architectural fragments, ornate carvings, and incredible models showcasing the Duomo's grand history. You can trace the cathedral's evolution from a modest building to a towering architectural masterpiece!
Speaking of artistic masterpieces... My ballet lesson was quite an adventure!
I made my way to a studio on Via Moscova - a little cobblestone street brimming with chic boutiques and delicious little cafes that always make me stop for a second bite!
The studio itself, hidden away in a quiet corner, had all the charm of a hidden gem. Light flooded in from skylights, illuminating the graceful movement of seasoned ballerinas practicing en pointe. This is the studio that calls to my heart! It was a lesson full of the most elegant ballet steps, perfect pirouettes, and the intoxicating rhythm of our movements that is, of course, always in time with the music.
Afterward, feeling inspired, I joined the Milanese in the vibrant, buzzing streets for a little shopping therapy. You see, here in Milan, it’s almost impossible to resist the allure of designer boutiques and antique stores, and today, the shopping gods were smiling upon me.
I found a delightful vintage hat shop, and a beautiful beret in a blush-pink color. Oh, the perfection of a perfectly pink beret!
Speaking of pink, have I mentioned my current pink tutu obsession?
I'm just so fascinated with this particular shade of pink – it's vibrant but not too loud, elegant but playful, and definitely screams 'Emma'! The perfect blend of chic and sweet. And what's a ballerina to do when she sees the most gorgeous tutu? You guessed it! I snagged it for my own collection.
Now, let's talk food...because, darling, you can't visit Milan without experiencing a bit of its gastronomical magic!
Tonight, my tummy is calling for the classic Italian fare that I absolutely adore. You just cannot pass up the opportunity to have fresh, seasonal ingredients made with care by some of the most talented cooks. The magic of Milan, I think, is the culmination of all those delightful experiences. The artistry in the fashion, the beauty in the architecture, the passion in the dance, the delightful, charming flavour in every little bite. It's no wonder Milan is known as the 'City of Style' or 'The Capital of Fashion'. I certainly agree.
Let's raise a glass to the pink tutus and the elegance of Milan, and all the delicious moments that are yet to unfold in this amazing city.
A presto, my darlings, and keep dancing!
Emma xo
P.S. My readers, be sure to check out www.pink-tutu.com every Monday for the next installment of "Pink Tutu Milan" as I continue my explorations around this breathtaking city! Ciao bella!
