#PinkTutuMilan Wednesday 2007-04-25 ballet blog from Milano Italia

Ciao Bella!

This is Emma here, signing in from sunny (well, kinda cloudy) Milan! I’m absolutely buzzing, my darlings, because this trip is everything a Pink Tutu aficionado could ever dream of. And let’s be honest, who doesn't dream of a romantic escape to the fashion capital of the world?

It all started with a dream, a twirl, and a whole lot of glitter. Remember those sparkling nights dancing in the Derbyshire countryside? Performing at that little village hall, bathed in the light of the spotlights, feeling the wind ruffle my tutu? That's what started this whole whirlwind.

Now, after performing for the most amazing crowds in Derbyshire, Manchester, and even a little jaunt down to London (who knew Covent Garden could be so magical?!), I’ve decided to take a leap of faith - a grand jeté, you might say - and dedicate myself full-time to my biggest passion: the Pink Tutu Project.

My dream is simple: to spread the joy of twirling, dancing, and living life in pink tutus across the globe. Sounds crazy? Well, then why are all the trendiest Parisian boutiques stocked with tutus these days? My prediction, dear readers, is that the world is on the cusp of a pink tutu revolution, and I plan to be right at the forefront, armed with my feather boas and glitter, of course!

Today, I’m going to whisk you along for a fabulous trip through the streets of Milan, filled with fashion, beauty, and yes, you guessed it, pink tutus!

Stepping out of the beautiful, Art Nouveau train station in Milano Centrale, I felt an energy buzzing around me like the rhythm of a perfect pirouette.

As a city known for its high-fashion flair and vibrant cultural scene, Milan has definitely set the stage for my very own pink-tutu escapade. There’s a certain something in the air here - maybe it’s the heady scent of freshly baked pastries, maybe it’s the artistic whispers on the wind, but whatever it is, it sparks inspiration.

Speaking of inspiration, did I tell you I bumped into a real-life ballerina today? I was gazing longingly at a shop window filled with adorable tutus (naturally, pink, with a touch of sparkling lilac!), and she popped out, hair perfectly sleek and ballet shoes clicking softly on the pavement. We struck up a conversation and, wouldn't you know it, she's a freelance ballerina just like me! She even mentioned she’s got her eye on opening her own ballet school in the suburbs of Milan, which is absolutely brilliant, and made me think of opening my own studio back in Derbyshire… who knows? Perhaps my next venture will be a pink-tutu school. Wouldn't that be divine?

This beautiful city is brimming with charm and character - from the iconic Duomo di Milano, towering high like a giant, white meringue (a culinary treat I'll have to add to my 'to-do' list!), to the grand, cobbled streets teeming with stylish Milanese and the charming trattorias that line each cobblestone path, tempting you with the scent of roasted garlic and sun-ripened tomatoes. It’s no wonder the world of haute couture takes inspiration from Milan - this city is simply dripping in beauty and class.

Let's get this straight - exploring Milan with a pink tutu and a smile is always an adventure.

This morning, I started the day with a cup of caffe latte at a cute cafe (naturally, decorated with blush-pink hues!), before boarding the local tram to reach the vibrant and historical city centre.

Remember that feeling you get on a ride to the coast in a summer holiday? Well, in Milan, it’s a similar sort of experience, except instead of seashells and sunshine, you’re surrounded by the sights of grand buildings, cobblestone alleyways, and the rhythmic pulse of the city's heartbeat. I mean, how can you not love trams? You get to watch the world zoom by - I find them quite inspirational for my dance moves.

As I zipped through the streets, the trams offered a unique vantage point to marvel at Milan's grand architectural gems. The intricate carvings, the terracotta roofs, and the playful use of contrasting colours really felt like the stage setting for a grand ballet performance!

Of course, no pink-tutu trip would be complete without a visit to the Opera House. I mean, the iconic Teatro alla Scala? What a dream! The red carpets, the golden balconies, the exquisite architecture, and the sheer elegance of it all are breathtaking. The place felt almost mythical! And guess what? It wasn’t too late for me to catch a special behind-the-scenes tour.

As a dancer, it felt incredible to walk through those sacred corridors and even peek backstage. To imagine the countless talented artists, both on stage and behind the curtain, weaving magic every night, it was truly inspirational. But what made the day extra special was this: they let me try on a real opera gown. You see, while I’m devoted to my beloved pink tutu, there’s something absolutely enchanting about an exquisite opera gown. It felt like I was stepping into a fairytale - it was dreamy!

Today, however, my true goal was to discover the world of high-fashion that defines Milan. So, I decided to visit some of the chicest fashion houses, not to shop (well, not at first), but just to observe, to inhale the very air of inspiration. The window displays at Gucci, Prada, and Dolce & Gabbana are like a showcase of miniature stories, full of colour and creativity. I took photos, sketches, and mental notes of every single shade, pattern, and shape. Maybe one day I'll design my own tutu line - "Pink Tutu by Emma", now wouldn't that be fabulous?

My favourite moment came at a vintage fashion store, tucked away in a small cobbled lane, a real gem. I was just browsing, hoping to find an unusual piece to accessorize my beloved pink tutu with, and voila, there it was: a shimmering silk scarf, a perfect shade of flamingo pink with little delicate beads on it. It's not just an accessory, you see - it's a tiny whisper of glamour, a secret message that every girl, from Milan to Derbyshire, understands. This is Milan for you – a city that makes even your dreams sparkle.

Later tonight, I’m planning to attend a small ballet performance at a charming theatre, tucked away in a quiet street. It’s a real hidden gem, and I've heard it’s absolutely buzzing with artistic energy. It feels so amazing to experience the cultural undercurrents of a city through its theatres, it's like immersing yourself in the very soul of Milan.

You see, the magic of travelling is about so much more than just ticking items off a list. It’s about immersing myself in new cultures, meeting inspiring people, and filling my own little Pink Tutu world with fresh experiences, which I'll be bringing back home with me to Derbyshire. I want to inspire every dancer in our tiny village to think bigger, to dare to dream, and, of course, to embrace the power of pink tutus!

My darlings, let me tell you, these adventures are far from over. The pink-tutu revolution has only just begun. And the next chapter, my dearest readers, will unfold in the magical, sparkling streets of…drumroll please… Paris!

Don't forget to join me for the adventure on Monday next week. Until then, remember: every day is a chance to twirl, and life in a pink tutu is simply magical!

Much love and sparkly kisses, Emma 💖🩰