Wednesday, 10th October, 2012
Oh my darling readers! You wouldn't believe what a whirlwind week I've had! It's been pure magic, absolutely brimming with beautiful ballet, breathtaking architecture, and… well… a rather delightful spot of shopping, of course!
As you know, dear lovelies, my week begins with my much-loved Monday Blog Post, and this week's was dedicated to the wonders of Verona. (You can catch it here, darlings: www.pink-tutu.com. We go live at 10am sharp each Monday!). But back to this beautiful week in Milan…
Arrival
Milan greeted me with a glorious sweep of autumnal hues. Leaves were already changing, swirling in hues of fiery red, russet, and gold. They swirled and dipped around me like a ballet of their own as I stepped off the train at Milano Centrale station. A flurry of emotions, you know – anticipation, excitement, a tinge of wonder… and, of course, the pure, unadulterated joy of seeing a new city for the first time!
I had chosen to stay in a charming little hotel in the heart of Brera, a truly enchanting district with cobbled streets and cafes overflowing with the scent of espresso and pastries. My room, decorated with a sweet pastel-pink hue, had a window looking out over a courtyard blooming with colourful flowers – oh, what a dream!
My First Pink Tutu Adventures in Milan
Naturally, I kicked things off with a most appropriate breakfast, don't you think? A delightful café right next to my hotel called “Pasticceria Sant’ Ambrogio” – simply divine. I opted for a croissant with a generous dollop of jam and a delicious creamy cappuccino – so decadent, you know! (And the perfect fuel for all the adventures that were to follow…)
Later that day, it was time for a quintessential Milanese experience. After all, you can't go to Milan without exploring the Teatro alla Scala, a magnificent house of opera and ballet, considered to be one of the most iconic theatres in the world.
The interior… it took my breath away. The crimson and gold colour scheme is positively breathtaking, and the sheer craftsmanship of every single detail was truly astounding. Just thinking about it sends shivers down my spine, dear lovelies.
As for my outfit? I couldn’t possibly arrive at the Scala in anything less than my signature pink tutu, of course. You wouldn’t believe the smiles I got from the staff. My trusty pink tutu, paired with a silk blouse and a velvet jacket… It felt positively glamorous!
After a leisurely stroll through the historic centre, it was time for a real treat! *Milan, my darlings, has a truly *magical side street lined with hidden gems – the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. *Imagine cobbled stones, sweeping arches, a gorgeous glass ceiling, and then imagine, if you will… an array of elegant boutiques showcasing some of the most incredible designs I’ve ever seen! It was like stepping into a fairytale… And of course, I had to *sample some of these exquisite delights – and let's just say my credit card was getting a wee bit sweaty, darling!
A Most Enchanting Ballet Performance
And then, my dear lovelies… it was the highlight of the week, my most cherished moment: A night at the Teatro alla Scala!
Tonight was a treat, a real treat… The ballet “The Sleeping Beauty”, and you know how much I adore Tchaikovsky's exquisite music.
The dancing was simply breathtaking. Every arabesque, every pirouette, every leap, it seemed like pure magic. I found myself utterly swept away, lost in a world of grace, passion, and pure artistry.
There's something truly enchanting about seeing such skill and talent showcased live – it’s pure joy, pure magic… It reminds me why I love ballet so much.
After the curtain call, it was time for a slightly quieter affair. It was late, and the twinkling streetlights illuminated a most charming little restaurant hidden down a cobblestone alleyway. (You'll forgive my lapse of discretion but secrets - and gorgeous restaurants - should be shared!) A cozy little place called "Al Garbureo", with an old-world ambiance, flickering candles, and the most wonderful aroma of slow-cooked meat and roasted vegetables.
I spent the evening nibbling on delicious Tuscan soup, savouring a generous portion of a scrumptious veal steak (with a splash of lemon), and giggling with the charming owner, Lorenzo. He had the most incredible collection of vintage postcards – all from the grand old opera houses in Italy – truly something special! I found myself mesmerized by stories of La Scala from the early days. He had a mischievous twinkle in his eye as he said, “You look like you belong here in Milan, bella”. He gave me a little wink as he added, "especially with your pink tutu!"
Tuesday: The Journey Back to Derbyshire
Today, my darlings, I embark on a little journey home, my head full of the most delightful memories, my heart overflowing with inspiration. It’s time for the gentle rocking of a train carriage to wash away the intoxicating fumes of a week spent amongst the marvels of Milan! I hope I’ll return one day!
Before I go, a little announcement – remember to join me on our Pink Tutu Week of giving away a magical little something-something! Be sure to follow us on social media (the links are at the end of the blog), and join in the conversation - tell me all about your favourite pink tutus!
As I leave you with this, my darlings, let’s raise a glass of chilled prosecco (my absolute favourite, of course!) to the most incredible adventures in life…
Until next week, my dear lovelies!
With love and sparkles,
Emma xxx
Emma’s Fashion Spotlights:
- My trusty Pink Tutu
- My latest favourite: a flowing silk blouse with delicate floral embellishments.
- My velvet jacket - for those moments when Milan needs a bit more glam.
- A pair of comfortable ankle boots with a slight heel (perfect for strolling around those cobbled streets!).
This Week's Inspiration:
The intricate designs of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II; the passionate elegance of “The Sleeping Beauty” ballet; the cozy charm of Al Garbureo.
Don't Forget To…:
- Join our Pink Tutu family: * www.pink-tutu.com*
Follow us on social media:
- Instagram: @PinkTutuBlog
- Twitter: @PinkTutuBlog
- Facebook: @PinkTutu
- Pinterest: @PinkTutuBlog
The Pink Tutu Family:
We are all about fun, embracing life's magic, and bringing a touch of sparkle to the world. Let's wear pink tutus everywhere we go!
*This Week's Fun Fact: *
Did you know, darling lovelies, that "La Scala" actually translates to “the stairway”? It was named after a nearby stairway that connected a convent to a medieval hospital… What a fun fact for the books!
P.S. Remember to share this week's blog with your friends and spread the pink tutu love! It’s what makes the world a prettier place.
