Hello, darling darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu wearing, ballet-loving, fashionista extraordinaire, Emma, back again from sunny Milan! Oh, the thrill! This is a city of contrasts - cobbled streets beside slick, modern shops, Renaissance masterpieces within walking distance of designer boutiques, and gelato stands at every corner (because let's be honest, gelato is a necessary component to any city!).
This week's adventures have been full of twirling, tutus, and oh-so-many twinkling Christmas lights. Milan truly does come alive this time of year. I have a whole Pinterest board (let's be honest, probably 10) dedicated to capturing all the beautiful festive decorations. Imagine a huge glittering tree in Piazza Duomo, a real show-stopper! You could get lost for hours simply gazing at its lights and the majestic Duomo casting its shadow above it all. I had to have my photograph taken in front of it - of course, in my pink tutu. There is no occasion that is not enhanced by a pink tutu, I find.
I took a scenic ride on the tram today, just to absorb the festive atmosphere. From the tram window, you can glimpse the gothic majesty of Castello Sforzesco, and the modern art of the Triennale. The bustling streets filled with shoppers and people making the most of the Milanese sun made me feel like a character in a delightful Italian movie. I can see why Milan is so captivating for artists and creatives alike.
The inspiration for my trip this week is a ballet performance that is absolutely unmissable. "La Bayadère" at Teatro alla Scala is happening right now, a stunning story set to Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music. You know me, darling. When there’s ballet on offer, I’m right there in the front row. It’s been amazing to see the dancers' elegance and power. The costumes, too! So sparkly and opulent. The Scala really is the jewel in the crown of Italian opera and ballet, it truly is something else.
Now, on the topic of things that shine, you know how much I love finding new designers and boutiques while I'm travelling. The street outside my hotel in Via Montenapoleone is filled with the most stunning high-end shops. If you’re looking for bespoke Italian fashion, this street is the place to be! It was hard not to treat myself to a little something - a new pair of ballet flats in a fabulous shade of teal that I know I’ll be twirling around in for years to come. The craftsmanship is impeccable, like a work of art! And who knows, I might be back to try and convince a designer to put a little pink tutu in their collection! I'll have to try, surely the pink tutu's time will come eventually?
Even with all the gorgeous shops and stunning sights, a bit of retail therapy wasn't all I managed to do! The weekend saw me dancing at the wonderful Scuola di Danza - the school where I am enjoying my weekly ballet classes while I'm in Milan. It was fantastic to spend time with such talented dancers, their passion for movement was truly infectious. The air hummed with anticipation, a sense of quiet joy, as everyone prepared to move with grace and elegance. I felt like I was right at home! We worked on new steps this week, and it was so nice to explore different rhythms and styles. And you know, there was a definite pink tutu presence in the room!
I may have come to Milan to see “La Bayadère”, but the real magic for me is in finding beauty, in every little detail. A captivating story unfolding on stage, the warmth of an Italian sunbeam, or a new piece of fashion - I see a new chance to be creative every single day. As I’m writing this from my cozy hotel room, overlooking the illuminated Duomo, it’s clear to me: sometimes, the best moments are not on a schedule, but found in the smallest details of our lives. Don’t forget to find yours!
Oh! and before I go, I have a question for you lovelies. You know I’m always striving to spread the message of the pink tutu, that joyous symbol of joy and creative energy, around the world. Tell me - what is your favourite pink tutu memory? Whether it’s a dance performance, a costume, a movie moment, or simply the feeling of twirling in one - share your stories! I can’t wait to read all about it.
And don’t forget to check out my website www.pink-tutu.com for updates and my latest adventures in ballet and style. You know it's pink, with a big bow and twirls and more tutus than you can imagine!
Until next week, darling! Love, Emma xxx
