Buongiorno, my darlings! It’s your favourite Derbyshire lass, Emma, bringing you another slice of Pink Tutu paradise straight from the bustling heart of Milano! This week, I'm brimming with excitement because, let's face it, being in Milan is always exciting! It's Wednesday, the 4th of January 2012, and the city is buzzing with a new year energy - oh, and the shops are FULL of stunning, glamorous, fabulous clothes that are just screaming "Emma, take me home!"
I'm here on a whirlwind of ballet brilliance! Last night I caught a breathtaking performance by the illustrious Teatro alla Scala ballet company, and I was positively spellbound. It was a feast for the eyes, a journey of elegance, power and, well, pure unadulterated pink tutu perfection! They were dressed in such exquisite, delicate costumes, all shimmering under the soft, golden theatre lights. Every pirouette, every plié was a whisper of pure grace, and I could barely contain my squeals of delight! The best part? They didn't even have pink tutus on! Now that's what I call artistry, eh? But don't you worry, my loyal readers, you'll be seeing my pink tutu galore on this trip, of course. Pink tutus in Milan?! What's not to love?
I arrived on Tuesday, and already my trusty pink tutu case (a fabulous fuchsia travel trunk with the signature 'Pink Tutu' emblem on it, naturally!) is overflowing with treasures. Milan, darling, you have the most delicious boutiques! From the exclusive Via Montenapoleone, home to those ah-mazing labels you can barely afford to even think about, to the quirky vintage gems nestled in little hidden alleyways, my shoe shopping addiction is completely satisfied.
I spent my Tuesday morning on a very stylish exploration of Via Montenapoleone - I had to see the new Dior collection! Oh my word, it was glorious! Think layers of soft silk, dazzling brocade, and a dash of playful whimsy - all wrapped up in the most exquisitely tailored designs. My bank account nearly cried, but I resisted. Honestly! For now, I’ll admire them from afar, dreaming of that day when I can sashay down Via Montenapoleone wearing my very own piece of Dior history! But no matter the price, nothing can stop me from grabbing the perfect vintage lace bolero that caught my eye at the cutest little boutique just off Via del Corso. I paired it with a black ballet-inspired tutu skirt for that effortlessly chic Milanese look. Let's be honest, nothing makes you feel as fierce and fabulous as a killer skirt!
In the afternoon, I made my way to the enchanting Piazza Duomo - a sight to behold! You simply HAVE to go! It’s this amazing cathedral with such intricate carvings that it takes your breath away. The gothic architecture is absolutely magnificent, and the whole square has a special magic about it that I could almost touch. After admiring the majestic beauty of the Duomo, I grabbed some incredibly delicious cannoli at this little family-run bakery right on the square. Heaven on a plate! My love for Italian food is second only to my love for pink tutus, darling, and let me tell you - Italian pastry chefs are a special kind of magic! I paired my cannoli with a freshly squeezed orange juice - because let’s be honest, balance, darling! A touch of sophistication in the midst of a sweet-tooth splurge.
To fully embrace the Italian lifestyle, I also had to experience the city on a tram, so I jumped on line 1. A true Italian adventure! I think I looked quite glamorous too - that vintage lace bolero is totally a Parisian dream girl vibe. I spent the journey planning my outfit for the ballet last night - pink, naturally. It’s my signature, and I always wear it with pride. (If you want the perfect inspiration, check out the “Pink Tutu Lookbook” on the Pink-Tutu.com website - It's my virtual scrapbook of all things Pink Tutu and I’m so excited to add this Milan trip in soon!) The Italian crowds looked so intrigued and I’m sure I caught a couple of surprised smiles. It felt fabulous, let me tell you. But of course, no one will ever have my flair - only a pink tutu devotee like myself can pull it off.
Anyway, darling, back to this week’s magical experience! I love going to the ballet here, you just feel that real Italian passion for the art! They say that Milan is the city of fashion and the heart of culture - I wouldn't argue with that at all! It's all just so sophisticated, with an edge of playful style. Even the pigeons here are chic! I'm convinced it's something in the water, perhaps mixed with a bit of prosecco. Or perhaps it's all about that Milanese energy, a blend of artistry, excitement, and a touch of dramatic flair. I could certainly get used to it!
Milan, with its cobbled streets, enchanting churches, and the energy of a thousand whispers of excitement, is pure enchantment! As you read this, darling, I am currently soaking up the morning light at a chic little café, perched atop my ballet bag and sipping a latte - such a Milanese morning! In fact, I've just seen the most amazing ballet class going on in a nearby square! Can you imagine, practicing ballet under the Italian sun with a breathtaking backdrop of gorgeous Milanese architecture? My heart skipped a beat! It’s like the most spectacular movie set ever! And don't even get me started on the beautiful music - just divine. Oh, I could lose myself in the ballet bliss for days! I really need to pack an extra tutu in my bag, and perhaps some extra sparkly dance shoes. Who knows, perhaps a impromptu pink tutu street dance is in order!
This afternoon I have an exciting afternoon planned – an immersive experience at the Museo Poldi Pezzoli, a true haven for art lovers like myself. The palace itself is just as exquisite as the artworks housed within it, and you know, I’m thinking it would be absolutely perfect for a Pink Tutu photoshoot! Can you imagine the chances for creative photography there? Oh, the light! And the gorgeous backdrops!
Don’t worry, darling, I’ll keep you updated on my blog - the 'Pink-Tutu.com' website will have all the photos and all the pink-tutu fun from my day. Speaking of the Pink-Tutu blog, I simply must tell you - the new ‘Pink Tutu Pinterest Page’ has been absolutely buzzing with activity! We've had so many fantastic comments from you amazing #PinkTutuLovers all around the world! You've shared stunning photos of your very own ballet adventures, and have made it truly a virtual wonderland of pink tutus, dance dreams and endless fun! I love hearing about what inspires you, and I find such inspiration from each and every one of you - thank you all, for spreading that pink tutu joy!
You know, being a ballet dancer, a travelling blogger and a passionate advocate for pink tutus has been an incredibly beautiful journey. I am grateful for the adventures that lead me across continents, from the Derbyshire hills to the Italian skies, each experience enriched by the sparkle and magic of ballet and that irresistible shade of pink. Each week I love connecting with all of you - my readers and followers, my amazing #PinkTutuLovers who make every trip and every blog post so very special! I don’t know where my Pink Tutu journey will lead next, but one thing's for sure - my heart will forever beat to the rhythm of dancing, and the colour that reminds me to embrace the world with all its glitz and glamour. And I'll be here, week after week, sharing the excitement and joy of the journey - and always keeping it bright, stylish, and pink!
Now, time for me to embrace the afternoon sunlight and a bit more Milanese adventure! Don’t forget to join me on Instagram (@EmmaPinkTutu) for a glimpse into the fun and keep those pink tutu dreams dancing!
Until next week, my dearest readers!
Ciao Bella from Italy! Emma x
