Ciao Bella, my dearest Tutu Tribe! It’s Emma here, writing to you from the stylish streets of Milan, a city bursting with beauty, fashion, and oh-so-much pink! ✨
This week's adventure takes us to the heart of Italy, a place I’ve been dreaming of visiting ever since I saw my first Visconti film. Sigh… how could I resist the allure of this iconic city, famous for its Duomo, its opera, and its effortlessly chic residents? It’s basically my spirit animal!
Let’s start by talking about my journey… It’s one thing to daydream about Milan, it’s another to actually arrive, and my travel experience was quite the spectacle, much like a ballet performance, believe me! My adventure began with a scenic train journey from Derbyshire, passing through rolling English countryside. My favourite part was seeing the quaint villages with their Tudor architecture – you really felt like you’d been whisked back in time. I spent most of the train journey listening to Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake on repeat – it really puts you in the mood for a magical adventure, wouldn't you agree? And after that lovely journey through the English countryside, I then embarked on another enchanting journey across the Channel - with my trusty pink tutu safely tucked into my carry-on, of course. (It’s a wise rule of mine: always travel with a tutu, never know when a photo opportunity will arise!).
Speaking of pink tutus, have I told you about my latest favourite online boutique? It's a hidden gem, discovered via Instagram (yes, I’m a modern-day ballerina!) and they have the most gorgeous pink tutu collection I’ve ever seen! It’s like a little pink tutu wonderland… From elegant, shimmering satin tutus for the stage to flirty tulle tutus perfect for everyday adventures, this boutique is my go-to for any tutu needs, even when I’m exploring a new city. Honestly, if you’re looking for a special pink tutu, then look no further. It’s like finding a hidden gem of the dance world.
As I stepped out of the bustling Milan Centrale Station, I was immediately charmed by the energy of this place. The streets hummed with a lively rhythm - motorcycles zooming by, shopkeepers hawking their wares, laughter in the air, and that incredible Italian style in every corner, a whirlwind of colour and design. My senses were in overdrive, my heart beat a little faster, and all I wanted to do was grab a croissant and head out on my grand Milanese exploration!
I found myself on a tram ride through the streets – a bit like a vintage ballet, all graceful curves and elegant turns! It was on this ride, tucked into the corner seat of the tram (with my trusty tutu carefully tucked beside me), that I started noticing how many fabulous shoes I saw. The Milanese women had the most stylish footwear: stilettos, boots, platforms, all sorts of beautiful styles – you just don’t see those everyday! Of course, my ballet shoes are my absolute favourites - I can't imagine going a single day without them! But these Milanese women certainly inspired me to add some fabulous shoes to my wardrobe!
Milan's Magic Moments - Dancing Through The CityMy first full day in Milan began with a delightful discovery: a tiny, charming coffee shop just around the corner from my hotel. I popped in for a quick latte and a croissant, indulging in a moment of quiet contemplation before embarking on my exciting day of exploration. I had to try a classic Italian croissant, it felt almost disrespectful to resist! I even took a photo of it and posted it to Instagram, hashtag #tutulife - everyone must see this magical Italian treat!
But this trip was more than just croissants and beautiful shops – it was all about ballet! The highlight of this week had to be the stunning performance by the Teatro alla Scala, Milan's grand opera house. To have a ballet performance within those walls – simply breathtaking. The auditorium itself was something out of a fairy tale – all plush velvet seats, opulent chandeliers, and balconies overflowing with eager spectators. The sheer history of the place took my breath away – I felt like I was transported to another era.
I settled into my seat and listened to the pre-show buzz in the hall – the whispers, the shuffling of feet, and a constant stream of conversations in Italian. But all this background chatter instantly vanished the moment the music started! The silence that followed, the anticipation that held its breath, and then… the curtain rose, and the magic began!
Tonight's performance was the epitome of graceful movements, stunning choreography, and truly talented dancers. My inner ballerina swooned. The sheer athleticism and artistry of each performance left me spellbound, my eyes glued to the stage, feeling that familiar sensation of joy and awe that comes from witnessing the beautiful dance of the human form. You can just feel it, can’t you? I’d call it a real ballet magic, it’s truly something special!
But I can’t just see the big-time ballet performances - I need to feel that magic in the smaller studios too, get those shoes on, and practice with a real group! I managed to squeeze in a ballet class this week in a small studio, hidden away in a quiet, cobblestoned street. It felt like discovering a hidden gem. There I was, a roomful of women - all ages, all levels, all united in our shared passion for ballet.
And let's talk about the tutus – in a sea of leotards and pink tights, I stood out in my trusty pink tulle tutu. Every glance I got, every knowing nod and appreciative smile… oh it was absolutely blissful. These ballet classes – these are where my love for the pink tutu truly flourishes. It's a secret society of sorts, where women of all ages embrace the sheer joy of being themselves through dance. We weren't worried about looking perfect, just focusing on finding our grace and rhythm. There's truly nothing quite like feeling your inner ballerina come to life with a group of amazing women. I felt free to spin and twirl with my heart and my body!
Oh! And my blog friends, I need to confess something to you – a fashion confession. I might have… possibly… succumbed to the allure of Italian fashion, a bit too much! I’m usually a minimalist when it comes to clothing – a comfy T-shirt, jeans, and my beloved pink tutu - what else do I need, right? But oh my word, Milan! This city really knows how to push the fashion boundaries and I am absolutely loving it!
I was swept off my feet (quite literally, thanks to a stunning pair of heeled ballet flats!), with a vibrant scarf, a stylish jacket, and… (dare I say it?), a few too many gorgeous pairs of ballet flats (a girl can never have too many shoes, you understand!). The stores, the windows, the style – everything was just screaming my name! I'm talking bright colours, daring prints, elegant designs – the whole shebang! I couldn't resist, and so began my new ballet fashion spree.
Food, Shopping, and My Tutu Tribe!My next Milanese ballet adventure had me feeling like a modern-day Cinderella! My Tutu Tribe gathered – a fabulous group of ballet-loving women from all over the world, each with her own unique story. We danced through the streets in a whirlwind of pink tulle, laughter, and a whole lot of love for all things ballet. You can bet we documented the entire adventure, photo-bombed some local fashion shows, and even stole the stage for a few impromptu ballet routines (the city felt a little more graceful after that!)
You know the old adage - ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do’? Well, when in Milan, I decided it was time to indulge in a little gourmet dining, all while living the Pink Tutu life, of course. We enjoyed the most exquisite pasta at a hidden trattoria, its walls adorned with old photographs of Italian opera stars - it really was a treat for the senses. I indulged in a glass of vino rosso with my delicious pasta, a true sensory experience. It wasn't all pasta and vino, though. I discovered a charming café tucked away in a small courtyard where I had a most divine afternoon tea – with an incredible assortment of tiny finger sandwiches, delicately sliced pastries, and of course, steaming hot tea, a touch of pure elegance amidst the bustling city!
Our impromptu ‘pink tutu street party’ caught the attention of a street artist who wanted to add a touch of ballerina magic to his work. He gave us a tour of his studio and even asked if we’d be part of a live painting session - of course, we said YES! So there I was, perched upon a stool, while he captured our tutu-wearing magic, transforming us into characters from a beautiful street-art performance! My inner ballerina was quite proud!
The next morning, I took a beautiful walk in the sunshine - Milan, even when bathed in morning light, is a place bursting with beauty and magic! My pink tutu (of course!) made the whole journey an even more dazzling experience. As I weaved through the crowds, a feeling of deep peace came over me. Here, in the heart of Italy, I realized my Tutu Tribe mission – it's not just about pink tutus; it's about bringing that ballet spirit – that sense of joy, of movement, of finding your inner dancer - to the world, one pink tutu at a time!
Speaking of the world, next week, I'll be hopping back on the train and venturing further afield - my heart yearns for the breathtaking beauty of Tuscany and the charming Tuscan countryside. But, rest assured, I’ll bring my beloved pink tutu along for the adventure - you’ll be hearing all about that on the blog next week.
So, dear Tutu Tribe, until then, embrace your inner ballerina, dance your heart out, and never stop twirling! And don't forget, the world needs a little more pink tutu love - share it with the world, just as I do. And I leave you with a bit of Milanese wisdom – "La vita è bella," – life is beautiful, so go out there and make it magical, every single day.
With all my love and tutus,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com