Wednesday 31st July 2013
Buongiorno, my darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, back with a brand new post straight from the cobbled streets of Milan, Italy! The city is a dream for a ballerina, let me tell you - beautiful buildings, elegant boutiques, and an atmosphere that practically pulses with fashion. Oh, and did I mention the food? Swoon!
I’m in Milan thanks to my beautiful pink tutu, of course! I recently performed in a charming ballet company's production of "Giselle" in Florence, which has afforded me the luxury of this little Italian escape. Honestly, my darlings, I do believe it’s quite a good life, travelling the world and spreading the pink tutu gospel wherever I go.
This week's blog post is going to be jam-packed with exciting details of my Milan adventure, including the divine fashion finds I've unearthed, a delicious slice of life at a truly authentic Italian cafe, and my first foray into the fascinating world of Milanese ballet - ooh, it’s all so chic!
But before I share all those details, let's dive right into the juicy stuff, my dears. Today's outfit was inspired by the bright, colourful atmosphere of Milan - sunshine yellow is definitely making its presence known here, so I thought I’d channel a bit of that warmth in my outfit.
I started with my signature, of course, a vibrant pink tutu. But this time, it wasn't my usual go-to! I'm talking layered tulle, like the softest pink clouds gathered around me. The skirt, which I found at a vintage boutique, was adorned with a multitude of tiny yellow flowers - they shimmered like miniature suns in the sunlight!
On top, a creamy white blouse with puff sleeves - think 1950s glamour - peeking just below the layers of tulle. This top perfectly contrasted with the playful pink and yellow hues of the tutu, creating a visually balanced, charming look. And no outfit is complete without a little something extra! So, I cinched the whole thing with a wide satin ribbon, in a colour as bright as a Sicilian sunset.
For footwear, I opted for a pair of sparkly, blush-pink ballet pumps - the perfect touch of understated elegance to balance out the sweetness of the outfit. And to complete the ensemble, I adorned myself with a pair of small pearl earrings and a dainty, gold necklace featuring a tiny pink rose - just because!
The overall effect, my dears? Think elegant princess, strolling through a blooming rose garden. And that's the perfect feeling for me when I explore a new city - a combination of excitement, curiosity, and of course, a hint of Parisian chic!
My First Glimpse of Milan
My journey from Florence to Milan was as charming as a scene from a romantic film. A comfy train ride whisked me away, filled with the melodic sounds of Italian conversations, the scent of coffee brewing, and views of lush rolling countryside that passed by in a blur of greens and yellows. It felt like travelling back in time.
Once I arrived, a wonderfully rickety, but brightly coloured tram was waiting to carry me into the heart of the city. It was like stepping into a travelling museum of history! With its worn, but charming red seats and mosaic tile floor, this tram was filled with local commuters, all bustling and chattering as the sun set, painting the city sky with a warm, rosy hue.
But even though I felt like I’d been transported to another world, my sense of adventure was amplified as I navigated my way through Milan’s winding streets, with my heart thrumming in anticipation. You can imagine my excitement as I took in the bustling crowds, the scent of espresso filling the air, and the magnificent architecture, a perfect blend of medieval and modern, which whispered stories of an ancient history, woven into the very fabric of the city.
My heart was truly captured by the enchanting Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio. This architectural masterpiece, built in the 4th century, radiated a serene majesty. It’s quite simply breathtaking, with its iconic pale rose and white walls adorned with intricately carved details, creating a timeless, magical presence amidst the urban landscape. I spent a blissful hour inside, breathing in the calming incense, soaking in the beautiful Byzantine mosaics that adorned the walls, and allowing myself to be transported to a bygone era.
And let's not forget the food, my darlings. How can I possibly be in Milan without enjoying a leisurely afternoon lunch in a picturesque café, surrounded by chattering locals and the heavenly scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked bread? I found myself a little hidden gem tucked away on a cobblestone side street, away from the tourist crowds. The café was charming, with its faded, floral-patterned walls, chipped marble tables, and mismatched chairs. There was something so warm and inviting about the atmosphere.
Of course, the food was divine! A light lunch of insalata caprese with glistening slices of ripe tomato and juicy mozzarella topped with a vibrant basil dressing and a heavenly plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti aglio e olio (it’s a classic for a reason!), followed by an authentic cappuccino. Oh, the sheer pleasure of sipping a perfect, velvety, frothy cappuccino while soaking in the charm of my surroundings. Bliss.
Shopping Paradise!
What's a girl who loves fashion to do in Milan? Well, shop of course! I had to explore the world-renowned shops on the iconic Via Montenapoleone.
Oh my, my darlings, Milan truly is a fashion haven! As I wandered the boutiques, with their pristine glass fronts and exquisitely designed interiors, my inner ballerina, as well as my fashionista, felt a distinct flutter in her heart. I am a self-proclaimed bargain hunter, but let's just say my wallet may need some time to recover from this trip!
Here's a little preview of what made me so excited, without spoiling all the details for my readers.
I found the most perfect pair of dancing flats, a blend of blush pink and champagne silk, embellished with dainty pearl accents. They whispered “ballet class in a chic Parisian café” and, frankly, I was utterly charmed. And what could be better than ballet flats, you ask? Why, an exquisite pair of ruby red pumps of course! They'll add just the right touch of sparkle to any of my evening looks - perfect for the ballets I have planned for later in the week!
A Night at the Teatro alla Scala
My heart, my darlings, is skipping a beat as I prepare for tonight's adventure - the iconic Teatro alla Scala, one of the most renowned opera houses in the world! To see a performance here is truly a bucket-list moment for any ballerina.
The exquisite, Baroque-style theatre was breathtaking from the moment I arrived. Its majestic grandeur made me feel a twinge of anxiety and excitement, much like the anticipation I feel before a performance. I'm sure this will be a highlight of my Milan experience.
I’m a bit nervous, but I can't wait to share the magic of the performance in my next blog post. Just picture it: velvet seats, plush curtains, stunning costumes, the music soaring above the hushed silence of the audience... ah, simply dreamy! I plan to soak in every magical detail.
I'm already planning my outfit for the performance - something elegant, with a touch of sparkle - think delicate blush silk, adorned with strategically placed rhinestones, perhaps a blush tulle skirt and my trusty blush ballet flats. I'll be ready to waltz right in!
And speaking of magic, that brings us to the end of my post, my loves.
It's time to say “Ciao” from Milan for now.
Until next time, remember, always strive to shine bright!
Your Emma
P.S I’m always looking for exciting new pink tutus. So, if you’re planning on travelling to Milan in the coming weeks, keep your eyes peeled for a ballerina looking for her next fashionable find!
Stay fabulous!
You can find Emma’s blog every Monday at www.pink-tutu.com
