Ciao Bella!
It's Emma, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing ballerina, back from a whirlwind of Milanese magic! It's been a glorious week of twirls and tiaras, champagne and catwalks, and of course, my favourite, ballet!
As always, my mission was simple: to bring a touch of pink-tutu magic to the Italian capital. And let me tell you, my darlings, Milan was more than ready to be charmed!
It's been a long time since I've been in the heart of Milan. Back in my days as a fledgling dancer, I used to take the train down from Derbyshire, eager for a glimpse of La Scala. Now, my heart swells with pride, knowing that I've actually made a home for myself in this fashion paradise.
A Milanese Waltz
As my sleek, pink suitcase rolled effortlessly onto the train platform, I couldn't help but feel a thrill course through me. It was going to be a big week – full of performances, shopping escapades, and the most enchanting ballet shows. Oh, how I've missed this city!
Stepping off the train at Milano Centrale, I was instantly enveloped by the familiar scent of freshly baked pastries and espresso. This, I knew, was the start of another adventure. My little pink tutu backpack (my trusted travel companion, always overflowing with ballerina necessities like a compact sewing kit and an extra pair of ballet slippers) felt like it could conquer anything!
A Symphony of Shopping
After settling into my hotel, a charming boutique near the Duomo with views overlooking the iconic Milan skyline (seriously, can you imagine how inspirational the city lights look from above?), I couldn't resist indulging in a little retail therapy. I know, I know, you all are saying “Emma, haven’t you shopped enough?!”
Milan is a shopper’s paradise, darlings. Imagine strolling down Corso Vittorio Emanuele, browsing the window displays of the finest Italian brands. My eye was particularly caught by a whimsical pink cashmere cardigan at Prada – I simply couldn't leave without it.
But I must admit, the most exciting discovery was a small boutique called “La Ballerina Rosa,” tucked away on a cobbled side street near my hotel. Inside, it was a haven of pink – think vintage tutus, dazzling headbands, and a selection of pastel pink ballet shoes that made my heart skip a beat. It’s just the sort of place to spend an entire afternoon and a hefty chunk of my precious ballet-performance earnings, but I walked away with only a couple of pieces that will, of course, be in the blog tomorrow (you won't believe the fabulous pink feather boa I bought!)
La Scala: Where Dreams Come True
Wednesday was a momentous day. It was the day of my very first performance at La Scala! Can you imagine, darlings? La Scala, the temple of Italian opera, where so many legendary performers have graced the stage. And here I was, a tiny ballerina from Derbyshire, taking a bow.
My nerves, as you can imagine, were like a swirling ballet of excitement and anticipation. But as I stepped onto that legendary stage, something truly magical happened. The orchestra, the lights, the hush of the audience, all conspired to transport me into another dimension. I was lost in the story, lost in the music, and most importantly, lost in the joy of sharing my passion with everyone watching.
I’m going to be performing all over Italy for the rest of the month, you know. Each night a different stage, different audience, but every single one full of new friends who embrace my pink tutu and everything it stands for – love, joy, and a touch of pure, unadulterated elegance.
Street Performers and Ballerina Vibes
But it wasn’t just the grand performances that filled me with inspiration this week. Milan has a vibrant street-performance scene, full of talented artists and musicians. As I wandered through the Piazza del Duomo on Thursday evening, I caught a performance by a group of street dancers, their graceful movements weaving stories through the city streets. I couldn’t resist joining in, showing them some Derbyshire dance moves – it was a whirlwind of pink tutus, energetic music and joyous laughter.
Of course, the energy of Milan spills onto the streets as much as the art of ballet does, too. As I strolled along Via Dante, I spotted a street artist painting a stunning portrait of a ballerina, her movements seemingly caught in a spray of vibrant pink and blue. A small crowd gathered to admire her work, and for a moment, it felt like the entire city had stopped to appreciate the magic of dance and art.
The Sweetness of Milanese Traditions
While I've been enthralled by the fashionable side of Milan, it was the traditions that really made my heart skip a beat this time. As the week drew to a close, I felt a deep yearning for a slice of traditional Milanese life, and there was only one way to do it: indulge in the ultimate Milanese experience – a delightful “aperitivo” on a warm Friday evening.
Picture this: the warm sun setting over the city, a perfectly chilled glass of prosecco in hand, and a platter of local delicacies laid out before me. As the sky turned shades of orange and purple, the city's charm seemed to shimmer and glow.
Milan - A City for Everyone
Whether you’re a fashionista, a ballerina, or simply someone seeking a touch of magic, Milan has something for everyone. But, you know what they say, there’s nothing more captivating than a city full of life, laughter, and a bit of pink tutu flair!
Until next time, my lovelies, keep twirling, keep shining, and remember - life’s too short for anything less than a little bit of pink tutu magic!
Emma x
Psst, did I forget to mention? Today, the 7th of October, is the opening day of the Salone del Mobile in Milan, the city’s most important furniture fair. It's a chance to discover the latest trends and be inspired by the most creative designers in the world. If only it could inspire my love of ballet! (And, maybe, I’ll find a pink, ballet-inspired armchair? - I have my fingers crossed, darling!).*
