Wednesday 2015-01-07
Ciao, darlings!
From the cobbled streets of Derbyshire to the bustling piazzas of Milan, I’ve finally arrived in Italy’s fashion capital. The energy here is palpable - a vibrant blend of stylish chic and a distinctly artistic flavour. The scent of freshly brewed coffee wafts from every café, and the clinking of espresso cups is the soundtrack to my day. I am absolutely besotted with this city!
Milan, oh Milan, how I’ve missed you! This city is truly a ballet lover's dream. From the majestic Teatro alla Scala, a grand dame of Italian opera, to the countless ballet schools dotting the city's cobbled streets, it's a haven for graceful pirouettes and beautiful leaps.
I've already discovered the most enchanting little ballet studio nestled amongst the backstreets of Brera, where I've had a chance to meet some incredible dancers and participate in an impromptu class. The air thrummed with passion as the dancers moved like wisps of smoke, each graceful movement infused with the essence of Italian beauty. The studio itself, though small, felt positively grand - light and airy, with gleaming wood floors and an oversized mirror reflecting the effortless beauty of every plié and arabesque.
As for my travels, this city's trams are a joy to ride, their vintage charms a stark contrast to the ultra-modern sleekness of the metro. But I must confess, it’s the slow-paced rhythm of a train journey through the Tuscan countryside that truly sets my soul alight. Gazing at rolling hills dappled in sunlight, passing by rustic villages that time seems to have forgotten - ah, pura magia!
Let's talk fashion, darlings. Milan is a paradise for all things fabulous. From the renowned Via Monte Napoleone, a shopping haven boasting designer boutiques galore, to the hidden gem of Via Brera, overflowing with independent fashion boutiques and unique designer finds, my senses are on overdrive.
Yesterday, I stepped into a vintage clothing store, a little haven of vintage silk and playful patterns. The shop assistant was a charming Italian woman, who insisted on sharing a piece of her famous hazelnut torta with me. My search for the perfect vintage silk scarf was finally rewarded - I discovered the most enchanting emerald-green silk scarf with tiny floral motifs, a piece that's practically begging to be twirled with a flamboyant flourish! I can already picture myself swirling around the piazzas of Milan, my emerald green silk scarf billowing behind me like a verdant banner.
Oh, and the shoes! Milan is positively dripping with exquisite shoes. I spent the afternoon window-shopping, marveling at the craftsmanship, the designs, the exquisite colours... It's like every shoe is a mini masterpiece waiting to be discovered. I even spotted a pair of ruby red ballet pumps with a little crystal on the toe, begging me to take them for a whirl!
As for today, it's the opening night of a special performance at the Teatro alla Scala. The program features Tchaikovsky's timeless ballet, "Swan Lake." You can practically smell the thrill and elegance, the anticipation of soaring arabesques and captivating pas de deux. I cannot wait to immerse myself in this breathtaking masterpiece and lose myself in the magic of classical ballet.
Let’s just say I have been completely swept up in the elegance of this city! I even bought myself a pair of satin opera gloves - a delightful nod to Milan’s love of theatrical drama. They're the perfect shade of powder blue, perfect for pairing with my midnight-blue, floor-length ball gown. The possibilities are endless, darling!
Speaking of possibilities, there is a magical new shop opening just a few doors down from my apartment in Milan, called "La Rosa Ballerina." The shop promises a selection of beautiful pink tutus and adorable ballet-inspired outfits that are sure to delight any dance enthusiast. This evening I plan to visit the shop and, if I'm lucky, perhaps discover the perfect tutu for my grand milanese debut.
Don't worry, I’ll be sure to share pictures with you!
And oh my darlings, my travels are supported through my performance at the Grand Theatre of Florence. Last weekend, I performed as a guest artist, with the local ballet company, for the opening of their latest production of “Sleeping Beauty”. My shimmering pink tutu was a huge hit. The whole city buzzed with excitement - even the most traditional Florentine grandmas were swooning!
Speaking of pink tutus, I am thrilled to be sharing a little secret with you today - a vision that has been brewing in my head for weeks, nay months!
I want to share a love of ballet and tutus with the whole world. And guess what?
I'm going to be starting my very own Tutu Club!
Yes, you heard that right. We’ll start right here in Milan. I want every single woman, man, and child to feel the joy of twirling and leaping in a tutu! Imagine, a world where we can all embrace our inner ballerina and celebrate the freedom of expression. It’s going to be simply divine!
More on that next week - and don’t forget to check out the official Pink Tutu website for a special Milan edition tutu collection! You'll find beautiful pink tutus for everyone!
Until next week,
Stay fabulous,
Emma
