Ciao from Milan, darlings! This is your favourite pink tutu-wearing blogger, Emma, reporting live from the fashion capital of the world! As I type this, the sun is streaming through my hotel window, painting the city in a glorious golden hue. I've got my trusty pink tutu hanging by the window, catching the rays, ready for another fabulous day of exploring and twirling my way through Milan.
This week's blog post is bursting with all things pink, pretty, and utterly delightful! From catching a stunning ballet performance to wandering the iconic streets, I'm embracing everything this incredible city has to offer. As always, my mission remains the same - to spread the love of pink tutus, one pirouette at a time!
But before we dive into the delights of Milan, a quick update from my life as a travelling ballerina. As you know, my adventures are funded by the joy of sharing my love of ballet. My last performance was at the beautiful Derby Theatre back in Derbyshire - always a joy to dance in front of a home crowd! The applause is just the best. This month alone, I've performed a ballet piece in Manchester, at a beautiful Victorian theatre that was full of ornate decoration - oh, I love to dress up for the stage! It feels amazing to be bringing a little bit of pink tutu magic to people around the country. And each show gives me just enough funds to whisk myself off to the next exciting destination, all thanks to the beauty of ballet.
And speaking of exciting destinations, let's talk about Milan! This week has been nothing short of magical. I arrived last Tuesday and was immediately swept off my feet by the sheer beauty and grandeur of this city. I love the old buildings, all stone and brick and imposing, then modern buildings gleaming with steel and glass, like something out of a sci-fi film.
Milan is a city of contrasts, and I love it. It’s got a charm you don't get anywhere else! And oh, the food! I've been indulging in all the classic Italian delicacies – the pizza is divine, the pasta melts in your mouth, and the gelato... well, let's just say I've already had my fair share of scoops.
But what I really came here for was to explore the fashion scene, and what a scene it is! From the sleek, modern boutiques lining the Via Montenapoleone to the vintage gems tucked away in quieter side streets, Milan is a paradise for fashion lovers like myself. And what would a visit to the fashion capital be without a bit of shopping therapy? Let’s just say, my luggage is a little heavier than when I arrived. I found a little independent shop crammed full of bright and bold fabrics and some utterly fantastic accessories. But let’s keep the outfit reveals for another time! I've also discovered a stunning pink tutu at a vintage shop and bought a couple of new outfits to wear around town - they’re all going straight onto Instagram, obviously!
Of course, no trip to Milan is complete without experiencing the vibrant and exciting ballet scene. I went to see La Scala Ballet perform The Nutcracker this week, and I’m still utterly smitten! I love how ballet transforms me to another place. Seeing them leap and spin so effortlessly and their stories told through movement just captivated me. They twirled and pranced and swept their way into my heart, just as I twirl and prance through the world spreading the pink tutu message. There’s something just magical about ballet.
Here are a few snippets of my week, all neatly packaged for your viewing pleasure!
The Tramway Adventures
Travelling by tram in Milan is an experience in itself. They’re bright and red, with this wonderfully retro charm, and every ride feels like an adventure. You pass through bustling streets and quaint, cobbled lanes, seeing locals going about their day and, as the saying goes, you really get a feel for the city when you’re travelling by tram! And oh, my, the tram lines are simply mesmerising in their beauty, especially under the evening light, like veins that crisscross the city.
Artfully Crafted Treats
Milan has this incredible bakery, tucked away in a little backstreet. It's like stepping into a world of pure sweetness! The displays are absolutely jaw-dropping, with rows of artisanal breads, delicate pastries, and the most tempting gelato imaginable. Every day this week, I've popped in and enjoyed a cup of cappuccino with a brioche (my absolute favourite!) and oh, that bread. Soft, warm, and so flavoursome. But I need to admit, the gelato is just the best – I haven’t been able to stop myself! And every scoop is like a taste of pure happiness. I’ve got a little pink tutu-themed dessert spoon – of course I do!
Pink Tutu in the Galleria
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the stunning glass-vaulted shopping arcade in the heart of Milan, is a must-visit for anyone visiting the city. It’s an architectural marvel and you have to stand back and just admire its sheer grandeur and beauty. There are shops selling fashion, designer clothing and a little gift shop that even I, as a huge pink tutu fan, was excited to visit! There are stunning cafes where you can grab a coffee or, if you’re feeling indulgent, an elaborate chocolate afternoon tea with friends! They say everyone knows everyone in Milan, and certainly you have to be seen in the Galleria, even just to soak in the atmosphere. So much is going on. Tourists taking pictures, pigeons flying overhead, shoppers carrying expensive handbags, young lovers laughing together, it's just the most fascinating mix of characters!
Dancing on the cobblestones
When I wasn't taking in the sights of Milan, I was twirling and prancing through its streets! Milan is such a gorgeous place to explore and for an active blogger like me, the most convenient way to get about is on foot! It’s a chance to lose myself in the charm of this magnificent city, get lost in the cobblestone streets, and discover little hidden gems along the way. And I simply had to add my signature pink tutu touch – and every single street becomes a runway, and a place for some ballet poses. After all, the most beautiful sights are often the ones that are a bit less obvious and those off the beaten track!
And who knows? I might have even inspired a few local ballet enthusiasts! I saw some really stylishly dressed men and women, strutting down the streets. It makes me smile to think I might just have inspired some to find their inner tutu-wearer and embrace their passion for style!
Sunday Night Symphony
Last night, I treated myself to a concert at the Auditorium di Milano, the beautiful and impressive concert hall at the heart of Milan. It was just breath-taking! The acoustics were incredible. I got the chance to listen to classical music at its best, as an orchestra played a powerful selection of symphonic pieces, transporting me to another time and another place, and even I, the queen of the pink tutu, felt truly awe-struck by the beauty of it all. My ears have never been so happy! And who knows, there may have even been a tiny pirouette or two enjoyed in my seat as I embraced the melody!
*What's On This Week: *
I'm spending today relaxing, sipping my espresso, enjoying the sunshine and reflecting on the past week’s amazing adventures. The perfect way to finish off this wonderful week and prepare for another adventure next week. Here's what’s going on in the fashion world this week:
Milan Fashion Week: While I'm not participating in Milan Fashion Week myself (although I’d absolutely love to, and maybe I will one day!), I am keeping a very close eye on what's happening. The runways are teeming with some of the most iconic designers in the world, from Dolce & Gabbana to Prada to Gucci. It's a spectacle that no fashion lover should miss, and I'll be posting updates about my favourite looks and trends throughout the week on Instagram. Follow me @pinktutu!
The Museo Poldi Pezzoli is a stunning museum where I'll be taking a little time to admire a beautiful collection of art and furniture from the Renaissance period and the neo-classical periods. It’s truly spectacular.
The Duomo: This magnificent cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Milan. I am determined to see it, as so many tourists visit it. I may even wear my pink tutu, so do watch out for my picture!
My Final Thoughts
So, my lovely pink tutu-loving readers, there you have it! My whirlwind of pink in the fashion capital. It's been a fantastic week, full of fashion, art, food, and, of course, a whole lot of tutus! I’ve experienced so much here already – there’s been no time to catch my breath. But there’s no way I’m leaving without a pink tutu-filled fashion shoot! Don't worry, I'll keep you updated on all my adventures next week. And until next Monday, make sure to embrace the pink, live your life with style, and remember - every day is an opportunity to twirl your way through the world in a fabulous pink tutu. Ciao for now, darlings!
