Wednesday 17th September 2014
Ciao bella! From the cobbled streets of Milan, I’m sending you a wave of pink tutus and a big hug. It's been a whirlwind week in the fashion capital of the world, and I’m so excited to share all the glamorous adventures with you. This week marks my 1006th blog post - wow, that’s a lot of pink! I can hardly believe I’ve been sharing my pink-tutu-tastic travels for this long, but what a journey it has been!
From Derbyshire to Milan: My Dance with the City
Remember how I told you last week about the amazing ballet competition in Venice? Well, after all those incredible pirouettes and graceful leaps, it was time to hop onto a sleek, red Italian train and set my sights on Milan.
There’s just something about this city that sets my heart aflutter. Maybe it’s the chic boutiques lining Via della Spiga, or perhaps it’s the energy that vibrates in the air, fuelled by a constant desire for elegance and artistic expression. Or maybe it’s simply that you can’t walk three steps without bumping into another stunning outfit that inspires you to reach for your own pink tutu!
Tutu-tastic Shopping Spree: Finding Pink Perfection
Let’s be honest, I wouldn’t be true to my pink-tutu-loving self if I didn’t indulge in a little bit of shopping. Milan is a haven for fashionistas like me. I spent an afternoon browsing the racks at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – a stunning glass-roofed arcade bursting with high-end stores and designer labels. I even treated myself to a pair of gorgeous, Italian-made pink ballet flats – perfect for navigating those charming, cobbled streets!
But you know, the best part about shopping in Milan is the sheer vibrancy. You feel the history of fashion all around you – the elegance of past eras, the daring trends of today, and the whispered secrets of tomorrow’s fashion world. It’s like stepping onto the stage of a fashion ballet, where every boutique is a performance in itself.
A Night at the Opera: Ballet Under the Stars
Later that evening, I was lucky enough to attend a stunning opera performance at Teatro alla Scala. The grandeur of the theatre, the beauty of the music, the dramatic voices, the sweeping costumes, and the impeccable dance moves – I was mesmerised! Even if you aren’t a massive opera buff, a visit to the Teatro alla Scala is a must.
Speaking of dance, my friend Caterina, a fellow ballet enthusiast, took me to a rehearsal for a new contemporary ballet. I must say, these talented dancers have pushed me out of my comfort zone with their fearless interpretations and creative movements!
Taking to the Streets: Where Ballet Meets the World
Milan, in my opinion, has one of the best street art scenes in Europe. It's bursting with murals, graffiti, and installations that tell stories, challenge conventions, and express creativity in every way imaginable. Even better, some of them are actually inspired by ballet! There's a certain beauty in finding these street ballet interpretations, where you see a dancer’s graceful leaps immortalized on a wall or the fluidity of their moves captured in a captivating spray-paint creation.
You can’t help but feel like the entire city is your own personal stage when you’re exploring Milan’s street art scene!
Dinner Under the Stars: Italian Delights and Conversation
My evenings are often spent at charming restaurants, enjoying delicious Italian cuisine with new friends and familiar faces. I find it’s much more than just eating – it’s about laughter, conversations, sharing stories, and connecting with the city’s rhythm.
Tonight, we sat outside on the terrace of a beautiful restaurant called 'La Vecchia Osteria', indulging in fresh pasta and sharing stories about our days, dreams, and ambitions.
Milan, a City of Contrasts: Elegant Glamour and Gritty Realism
One of the things I love most about Milan is its juxtaposition. You can find elegance and glamour on one street and gritty realism on the next. There’s a sense of history in its ancient buildings, alongside a modern, forward-thinking energy in its architecture and lifestyle.
Take the Duomo, for instance – this breathtaking cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, standing proudly as a symbol of Milan’s rich heritage. But just a few blocks away, you find vibrant street art murals, innovative boutiques, and buzzing nightlife, reflecting the city’s vibrant spirit.
The Magic of Tram Rides: Milan at My Pace
Every week, I try to explore a different corner of the city, and one of my favourite ways to get around is by tram. It’s an absolute delight, like hopping into a charming vintage carriage that gently rolls through the streets. It gives you the perfect view of the city as it slowly unfolds – from charming plazas to grand monuments to bustling street markets.
The Call of the Tutu: Encouraging You to Embrace the Pink!
I know it might seem like a bold move, but I think it's time for everyone to embrace their inner pink-tutu-wearing ballerina! Even if it’s just for a day, I believe the magic of a pink tutu can uplift your spirits, ignite your creativity, and empower you to dance through life with a little extra twirl and flair!
My dear readers, until next Monday, keep shining brightly! And if you ever find yourself in Milan, please don't hesitate to say hello. I’d be delighted to show you around and share a cup of cappuccino or a glass of Italian wine!
Stay tuned for more pink-tutu-tastic adventures!
Love,
Emma x
