Wednesday, 2013-02-27
Ciao, darlings!
It's me, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, ballet-loving blogger, Emma, and I'm so excited to be back in Milano for another week of pink, tutus, and all things fabulously Italian. This time, I'm feeling a little extra fluttery, because oh, my darling - it's Fashion Week!
Before I get lost in the whirl of fashion and fun, I wanted to share some quick updates about the last week of adventures.
Back in Derbyshire for a Whirlwind Weekend:
Last week, I whisked myself back home to Derbyshire, where I embraced my roots with a whirlwind visit to the Peak District, catching a glimpse of the beautiful snowy landscape before heading back to the comfort of my mum's cooking. It felt so good to be surrounded by familiar faces, laughing at inside jokes and feeling the warm, fuzzy feeling of home.
But, you know me, a few days in the countryside couldn't keep this pink-tutu-clad dreamer away from the bright lights of Milan for long. I'm back in the heart of the action, ready to paint the town… or should I say, paint the town… pink?
First Impressions: Milan Fashion Week Fever
My first impression upon arrival in Milano? Fashion. F.A.S.H.I.O.N. The air practically vibrates with it. Everywhere I look - on the streets, in cafes, at the railway station – stylish Milanese ladies, gentlemen and… well, mostly ladies, are walking around as if straight out of a Vogue photoshoot.
From the first step onto the station platform, it feels like I'm walking through a colourful fashion catalogue! I saw these two amazing young women - think modern-day Audrey Hepburns, but with an edge of contemporary cool. They were absolutely radiant in soft pastel shades with matching clutch bags, sleek trench coats, and delicate jewellery that glittered like the setting sun. You know I immediately made a mental note to steal their style for a blog post later!
But of course, as any proper ballerina would tell you, my love of fashion is tied deeply to my love of dance. After all, the right outfit can take you to the moon and back, no?
And I was ecstatic to spot a glimpse of some fantastic ballet-inspired designs - I swear, even the traffic lights were getting in on the dance party!
* Ballet's Charm in Every Corner*
And speaking of dance, it’s impossible to forget that Milano is also home to the fabulous Teatro alla Scala, one of the most renowned opera houses in the world. This building itself is a stunning testament to elegance and history, and the performances are, without doubt, some of the most thrilling I've ever seen.
On Tuesday, I decided to treat myself to a beautiful show: a performance of La Bohème - one of the most heart-wrenching and romantic operas ever written, with beautiful melodies and incredible dancing. The whole performance just captivated me. From the moment the curtain went up, I felt myself swept away, entranced by the passion of the dancers and the soaring emotions of the story.
You know me, I love my tutus, but the dancers in La Bohème had a real air of timeless elegance. The tutus they wore were ethereal, flowing with such grace and lightness. I almost felt tempted to swap my pink tutu for one of theirs just for the night! Almost.
* Ballet Street - When Fashion and Dance Collide *
Of course, one doesn't always need a fancy theater to witness the magic of dance. Sometimes, it's about stepping out into the streets, discovering beauty in the everyday, and letting your inner ballerina loose.
One afternoon, while wandering through a vibrant shopping street near the Duomo, I stumbled upon something magical. It was a spontaneous street ballet performance in front of a boutiques full of shimmering jewels and gowns. Three dancers, graceful as swans, moved with such passion and expressiveness that even the busy crowd of shoppers stood entranced. A few people started tapping their feet along to the music. One brave gentleman even waved a feather boa to the beat of the music. It was pure magic.
The street turned into a temporary theatre, filled with a vibrant energy that danced through the cobblestones. I found myself swaying along, my pink tutu twirling with the music in the air. It was the most exhilarating ballet performance I’d experienced in years - so inspiring, so unexpected! It truly made me feel that dancing and fashion aren't two separate things; they blend together, creating something wonderfully joyful and captivating.
* Tram Travels and Tram Chic*
Of course, a trip to Milano wouldn't be complete without an adventure on its tram system. As a girl who loves the romance of railway travel and a good, comfy journey, I'm thrilled by Milano's vibrant network of trams, all buzzing with life. You see such a mix of people: fashionistas and businessmen rushing to appointments, students with their backpacks, young lovers sharing stolen kisses… There’s something incredibly romantic about the atmosphere on these trams, especially when a little sun streams through the windows.
Speaking of romance, let's talk fashion, because I'm not afraid to admit that the ladies in Milano make tram travel an event in itself. They come in all styles - some rock the timeless elegance of a scarf and fedora, while others sport colourful, flowing skirts or fitted jackets with a sleek touch of jewellery. The city just exudes an atmosphere of sartorial elegance and effortless sophistication.
I even witnessed a flash mob of stylish, dance-loving individuals break out into an energetic choreographed performance at a busy stop - it was pure fun! People clapped along, a smile spreading on every face as the rhythmic choreography took hold.
Even amidst the excitement of fashion week, I find a certain sense of calm watching the gentle sway of the trams. There's an easy, unhurried rhythm to life here in Milano. And let me tell you, I’m loving it!
Onwards and Upwards - Towards More Pink, More TutUs
And that’s my update, my darlings.
I’m embracing the vibrant, whimsical spirit of Milano, its art, its energy and most of all, its style. This week will be jam-packed with more fashion shows, theatre performances and plenty of discoveries to be shared with you. I'm already planning on a ballet-inspired outfit for a glamorous show. Just wait for it.
Until then, I leave you with this:
Keep your spirits high and your pink tutus twirling!
Emma xx
