Wednesday 13th June 2012
Ciao, darlings! It's Emma here, reporting live from the fashion capital of the world: Milan, Italy! This week's adventure has been nothing short of magical, filled with tutus, tram rides, and enough shopping to make a shopaholic's heart skip a beat.
But before I dive into the dazzling details, I just have to confess that a bit of travel anxiety did get the better of me this morning. I've been travelling by train and tram all week, taking in the sights and smells of Milan. The city is such a whirlwind of activity – honking scooters, delicious food wafting from open windows, and impossibly chic people dashing by. I was quite nervous about getting lost, especially after missing my train yesterday – a bit of a shocker for a seasoned travel bunny like me!
Thankfully, a helpful Italian lady with the brightest smile I've ever seen pointed me in the right direction. The world seems to soften when someone offers a kind gesture, doesn't it? It just goes to show that a little bit of kindness can go a long way.
Speaking of kindness, you lot wouldn't believe what happened this afternoon. I was doing what I do best – wandering around, enjoying the hustle and bustle – when I bumped into a street performer in a vibrant red tutu. And before you ask, no, it wasn’t a random fancy dress incident. She was a beautiful young dancer, twirling and leaping with a joyous energy that quite simply, stopped me in my tracks.
This dancer was a vision in crimson, effortlessly blending into the colourful scene around her. Seeing her performance was a truly wonderful experience – a vibrant celebration of life, movement, and art. We got to chatting afterwards, and I learnt that she's part of a small ballet troupe that performs regularly in different locations around the city. They aim to bring ballet to the people, bringing it out of the theatre and into the streets, and sharing its magic with everyone who crosses their path.
Let me tell you, there's something so special about seeing ballet in this way. In a theatre, there's a formality, a certain distance between the performer and the audience. Here, on the bustling cobblestones of Milan, it was a conversation, an exchange of emotions, a raw display of talent and passion that was just, well, beautiful.
And, of course, I had to buy one of her handcrafted, beautiful, silk flowers. I was mesmerized by the exquisite detail of each one, painstakingly created using shimmering silk, each petal crafted with such precision. My new rose will find a special place in my wardrobe - a constant reminder of the power of passion and creativity.
The street performance had me reminiscing about my own journey into the world of ballet. It all began back in my hometown of Derbyshire, in a small dance school, hidden away on a dusty lane. I'll never forget the feeling of standing on my tiptoes for the first time, the sense of freedom and lightness, the pure joy of feeling my body move in a way it had never moved before.
Growing up in a village that was practically light-years away from the glittering ballet world of Milan, my love for ballet felt like a secret, a dream hidden in my heart. It felt like an ambition so out of reach, yet I clung onto it with everything I had. Every rehearsal, every performance, every pirouette I managed to pull off – each step was a small victory, a step closer to my dream.
My ballet journey was filled with challenges, of course. There were days when I felt lost, doubtful, questioning my ability to ever be good enough. There were injuries, too, like when I twisted my ankle trying to perform a double pirouette in my very first dance competition.
But even those setbacks only fueled my passion for ballet. I knew, with absolute certainty, that I was destined to be a dancer. And, just like that, here I am. In the heart of Italy, sharing my own love for ballet with the world, one pink tutu at a time.
As for this week's adventures in the world of fashion, my dear readers, let me tell you, Milan hasn't disappointed. I had a fabulous afternoon exploring a beautiful, boutique dress shop. I could practically hear my bank account groaning at the sheer volume of exquisite fabrics, delicate embroidery, and dazzlingly bright colours.
And then I saw it - a masterpiece of pink lace, an explosion of tulle and frills, a dress so dazzling it could only be destined for a ballerina’s dream wardrobe. It was a pink dream, darling, with its ruffles, lace, and intricate patterns, each detail meticulously hand-crafted. And of course, it had to be mine.
This beautiful new addition to my wardrobe reminded me of why I adore travelling so much. It's the little moments, like finding that perfect piece of clothing or enjoying a delicious coffee in a quaint cafe, that really make these trips truly unforgettable.
Tomorrow I'm heading to see "La Bayadere" at Teatro alla Scala. It's an absolute must-see for any ballet enthusiast, a lavish and visually stunning production featuring the breathtaking artistry of the corps de ballet.
As I walk through the streets of Milan, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant energy, I can't help but think about the future. I know my love for ballet, and the beauty of its powerful story telling, will continue to inspire me as I move forward, twirling my way through this beautiful life.
That's all from Milan for now, darling. But make sure to tune in next week for more fun from the world of pink tutus! In the meantime, be sure to share your own dance stories – the memories, the inspirations, the little things that make your heart sing!
Until next Monday, keep your dreams big and your spirits high,
Emma xox
