Ciao bella! It’s Wednesday, 11th April, 2012, and I’m back in Milan, my fabulous pink tutu swirling around me as I type. Oh, darling, I’m in my element here! The city has this incredible energy, like it’s humming with creative vibes. It's definitely my happy place!
This week, I've been devouring Milan’s culture, hopping between breathtaking ballet shows, and finding delightful little hidden gems – shops full of exquisite textiles and dreamy fashion pieces that could make a girl swoon! And don’t even get me started on the gelato! It's like a fluffy, delicious cloud in my mouth. You just wouldn't believe the amazing flavours here. I may or may not have indulged in a lemon and lavender gelato this afternoon...
Oh! And did I mention I discovered the most exquisite pink shoes in the whole wide world? Imagine, my loves, a pair of exquisite suede ballet pumps in the most heavenly shade of pink imaginable! They were literally begging me to take them home with me! And they felt like walking on clouds. Oh, they'll be perfect for all my dancing escapades, and will surely look fabulous with my favourite pink tutu. I’m utterly smitten.
Speaking of ballet, this week I was fortunate enough to catch the most beautiful performance at Teatro alla Scala. I was captivated by the way the dancers’ bodies moved, the stories they told without a word, and the sheer power of their artistry. The dancers at La Scala are world renowned, of course, and it was an honour to be a part of their audience. The artistry on display had my breath caught in my throat, and tears welling in my eyes – pure magic!
The theatre itself was an absolute marvel. It’s one of the most stunning buildings I've ever seen. Imagine an elaborate tapestry of gilt, chandeliers so grand they could house a small bird, and plush, burgundy velvet seats that felt like they were made for royalty. It's a theatre for the ages, and I felt truly blessed to have experienced its magic.
And you know me, I just couldn't resist getting a bit glammed up for the occasion. My darling, this is Milan! My go-to outfit, of course, was a luscious shade of hot pink that had everyone's eyes on me. And as the last notes of the music echoed in the grand hall, I walked out with my heart still thrumming and the magic of the performance dancing in my head.
But Milan's magic extends far beyond its magnificent theatres, you know. It's a city teeming with artistic energy, pulsing with creative energy. Everywhere you look, there's something to discover. A new design, a vibrant shopfront, a café brimming with character – even the city trams seem to have an infectious energy. I can’t wait to hop onto one, hop off in a new corner of Milan and discover something brand new.
Every corner I turn, my camera clicks with the excitement of capturing another bit of this magic – street performers who paint portraits with chalk on the pavements, musicians playing sweet tunes in the squares, vendors offering exquisite hand-stitched hats and hand-painted silk scarves... Every corner here seems to have something exciting to offer. It’s almost overwhelming, in a wonderful way!
On Friday, I was fortunate enough to experience a stunning ballet performance in a smaller, more intimate theatre – a true gem tucked away on a quiet side street. And my, oh my! This theatre had its own charm. With it’s elegant, gilded balconies, cosy plush seats, and walls adorned with vintage posters from bygone performances, this was a place where the whispers of dancers' past filled the air.
This ballet was truly exquisite, too. A haunting, elegant masterpiece with costumes so exquisite, they were practically living and breathing with their artistry. The story it told with dance alone was spellbinding. Every step, every glance, every sweep of the dancers' arms told the tale without a single word. This ballet is something I will never forget!
One thing I’m noticing, you see, is that Milan’s style isn’t all glitz and glamour – it’s also a place of delicate craftsmanship. I even spotted an artisan selling vintage tutu designs in the most divine shade of pale blush pink, which I’ve absolutely got to get my hands on. And how can I resist a new pair of vintage, beaded ballet shoes? Just look at the meticulous detail, the soft sparkle, and that timeless quality! And let’s face it, my darlings, who doesn’t love a good bit of sparkle?!
After all the excitement, though, it’s been nice to treat myself to some “me” time. I love soaking up the energy of this vibrant city. From sipping a frothy latte while watching the city wake up in the morning to discovering hidden alleyways crammed with charming boutiques and art galleries, every moment in Milan has a story to tell.
The city’s pace of life, I have to admit, is a bit more leisurely than what I’m used to back home in Derbyshire, which is a welcome change. Of course, when I’m performing, I can be super-busy, travelling between stages, running on little sleep, and working so hard that all I can think about is keeping those steps flowing flawlessly! So, being able to unwind in this magnificent city and simply bask in its ambience, is a true delight.
I’ve been spending some afternoons enjoying the sunshine, sat in the Piazza del Duomo, where pigeons flit around the ornate architecture, tourists murmur in various languages, and ice-cream vendors ply their trade, their cheerful calls filling the air with that delightful Milanese symphony of scents, sounds and sunshine! It is just idyllic!
Don’t get me wrong, though, my dear readers. I wouldn’t dream of letting a bit of R&R stop my hunt for exquisite fashion pieces. A trip to Milan simply isn’t complete without browsing through the designer stores. Today I spotted a gorgeous pair of pearl-trimmed gloves and a silk scarf in the most delightful, jewel-toned shade of ruby red – my kind of luxury. Of course, it’s not just the big-name stores, the hidden boutiques are a treasure trove too, filled with unique finds for my pink tutu wardrobe! Oh, I just can’t help myself!
You know, one of the things I adore about Milan, is that you can be as fashionable or as casual as you like. You can slip into a grand salon wearing a flowing silk dress and sparkly heels, or wander the streets in your comfy jeans and ballet shoes. It really does seem like a city that caters to all.
Tonight, I’ll be heading out for some Italian supper. As the sun sets on another beautiful day, I’ll indulge in a classic Italian meal: Pasta, of course, drizzled with creamy pesto, followed by the most succulent gelato you can imagine. I mean, how could you resist? Then, of course, there will be the customary gelato as we walk around the beautiful, lantern-lit streets! Oh, what a delight.
Before I sign off for this week, I do want to share one of the many fabulous things about this vibrant city - the abundance of public transport! You can navigate the entire city using trams, buses, and the train - they all seem to run flawlessly and offer a delightful journey. It makes exploring all the magical hidden corners of this metropolis, from designer stores to buzzing cafés to quiet, leafy piazzas, such a breeze.
As I sit here in my little room, the soft Milanese light illuminating my desk and casting shadows that play over my pink tutu, I'm feeling grateful. I'm grateful for this vibrant city that's stolen my heart, and for my amazing life, that's filled with so many opportunities for beauty and magic.
But mostly, I’m grateful for you, my beautiful pink tutu community. You keep me inspired, and you fuel my passion to wear my pink tutu with pride and joy.
Till next week, my loves, keep dancing, keep shining, and always remember the power of a pink tutu to spread joy!
See you soon,
Emma 🩰🌸
