Buongiorno, darlings!
It’s Emma here, back from my Milan adventure and ready to share all the pink-tinted delights that the fashion capital of the world has to offer! This week, I've traded the cobbled streets of Derbyshire for the buzzing glamour of Milan, and let me tell you, it’s been a whirl of tutus, trams, and tramlines (but definitely not in that order, naturally).
As I always say, a little bit of pink goes a long way, and Milan was absolutely awash with it. From the blush-pink blossoms cascading over ancient walls to the delicately-hued gelato cones in every gelato shop, it was as if the city itself was wearing a pretty pink tutu, a beautiful symphony of hues and textures.
Let me tell you, my week in Milan was practically bursting at the seams with excitement. It all began on Sunday evening, my usual pre-travel jitters replaced by the familiar comforting thump-thump-thump of my train journey down south. The journey was always an adventure. Something about seeing the English countryside roll by through the windows makes me feel so alive. And the train? Let’s just say, a pink tutu looked absolutely dashing against the muted colours of the carriage - all the other travellers gave me a nod of approval (or perhaps they were just trying to get a glimpse of the fabulous new addition to my pink-tastic travel wardrobe!)
Speaking of the travel wardrobe, Milan, you were a revelation! Let’s just say the fashion scene is a whole other world, and my pink tutu fit right in. Every corner of the city oozed style and elegance, the people a veritable runway of Parisian chic. Imagine a kaleidoscope of colours and patterns – flowing silk skirts, impeccably tailored jackets, and of course, plenty of pink (and of course, you know how much I love pink, my darling dears!) It was all a delicious sensory feast for a ballerina-at-heart!
Now, Milan isn't all about glamorous shopping and extravagant fashion (though it certainly is!) I was actually there to see one of the most amazing ballet shows I've ever witnessed, performed at the Teatro alla Scala. The theatre, a magnificent blend of opulence and grandeur, stole my breath away from the moment I walked into its beautifully carved lobby. It was the epitome of old-world charm. You know how much I love seeing shows and the grandness of these classic places truly appealed to me. I had been researching the program for weeks and my oh my! What a treat it was to see “Giselle”. This show brought the most captivating performance I've ever seen, a ballet that resonated with me on an almost emotional level.
But you see, the excitement wasn't confined to the stage! My visit to Milan was an endless stream of discovery. The architecture, the delicious food, and the people, everyone with their own story and energy - It was a real heady mix! You know how I love my gelato and my pink tutus, and Milan served up the best of both. A delicious scoops of gelato, swirled in an array of delicate flavours – vanilla, pistachio, ricotta - oh the perfection! – enjoyed at a little courtyard cafe as I watched the world go by, each sip of my coffee and every lick of my gelato making my senses truly come alive!
One day I found myself on the back of a little electric tram. It had been raining and the air smelt clean and fresh. The tram rolled smoothly through the city, stopping and starting to let the people of Milan off to their destinations. All around me was this buzz of life and activity and as we pulled up to another stop I noticed a young couple looking very smitten and walking hand-in-hand with a giant white dog who barked loudly at a fluffy white poodle. How perfectly Milanese I thought! And speaking of the tram and how it whizzed by Milanese cafes and chic boutiques. Did I mention my shoe shopping trip? Because, darling, it was an absolute dream! Imagine this, if you will, a whole street dedicated to beautiful leather shoes. Each shop had the most elegant pairs – suede boots with ankle buckles, peep-toe pumps, elegant slingbacks. Of course, there was one shoe that caught my eye - a sleek, crimson pair, with a delicate silver bow. Perfect for a ballerina who knows her own mind, don’t you think? My love for pink tutus can’t be contained - even my shoe purchases had a sprinkle of the color. And it looked so elegant with that elegant Parisian, black and white outfit I picked up that afternoon in the same area. My goodness me, the fashion shopping! I can’t describe how exciting the shops are here! I am so very happy with my finds.
But even a fashion fanatic like myself, with a wardrobe of perfectly coordinated pinks and tutus (more tutus than pinks I might add!), needs a little “me time,” and Milan did not disappoint. For a peaceful retreat I found a hidden courtyard tucked away in a quiet corner, shaded by an ancient, towering plane tree and enclosed by ivy-covered walls. I spent a happy hour, sat under the tree’s vast, leafy canopy, watching the sun peek between the leaves and painting my thoughts, my travels, and my musings about Milan in my little notebook. My trusty notepad, always with me and always by my side. The beautiful scenery was so picturesque, and so very Italian and Milanese!
Now, my dearest readers, before you head off on your own Milanese adventures, let me share a little something I discovered: The secret to falling in love with Milan is embracing the city’s unique energy, its blend of old and new, its blend of tradition and modern-day chic, a city that thrives on passion, style, and that undeniably vibrant "la dolce vita” atmosphere. It is simply magical! I mean, where else can you get exquisite pasta dishes, perfect cappuccino, and walk around corners and discover stunning architecture with amazing views all in one go? I will certainly be returning!
Of course, no trip is complete without the customary pink tutu appearance (I do aim to bring tutus to every corner of the world!), and Milan’s fashion forward attitude provided a delightful backdrop for my signature pink tutu. The locals seem to enjoy a bit of colour on the streets and, darling, they just embraced it, with smiles, compliments, and even a few appreciative glances (the occasional “Bravo” and a few thumbs up, which truly made my day!).
I do have to say that it was not only a trip to Milan that I will remember but, a trip I will want to repeat again, and again, and again! I cannot thank Milan enough for opening its doors to this little ballerina with a pink tutu. A huge thank you to every person who made me feel so welcome in Milan. And that’s a wrap on another incredible journey – another reason why Milan is so near and dear to my heart!
Ciao, bellezze, until next week. I am back to Derbyshire for the time being. You can always find me on www.pink-tutu.com!
