Buongiorno, miei cari! (That’s good morning, darlings in Italian!)
The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and a certain pink-loving ballerina is bursting with excitement. Yes, I’m in Milano, the capital of fashion, glamour and – surprise! – ballet! I've already had the most amazing day filled with tutus, trains, shopping and, of course, ballet, so settle in and grab a cuppa because I have so much to tell you.
Remember those glorious summer days in Derbyshire, when the sun seemed to set the grass on fire? Well, Italy's sunshine is even more intense, making every stone street glow. Today, Milano feels like a stage, with each shopfront an extravagant set, the busy piazzas a buzzing audience, and me, in my perfect pink tutu, centre stage, taking it all in.
This week's ballet journey begins on the platform. It feels odd to say it, but I’m actually enjoying the journey by train as much as the destination. I must confess to being absolutely enamoured by the way the train carriages rattle through the Italian countryside. The scenery is a tapestry of sun-kissed fields, elegant vineyards and bustling towns, painted in vivid colours, much like a scene straight out of a ballet!
And talking about colours... I have to show you my new purchases from the train! A hot pink handbag, with silver clasps (think "Belle" but with more sequins), and a gorgeous emerald green scarf, with embroidered peacocks. Yes, you could say it’s a colour explosion. Perfect for pairing with my iridescent, shimmering, sparkly, pink tutu, which is obviously travelling with me. Because a ballerina's outfit never travels alone, wouldn't you agree?
Arriving in Milan's central station felt like stepping into a bustling ballet company. The throngs of people, their laughter, the aroma of freshly baked bread from the station’s café... it all swirled into a kaleidoscope of life! I was utterly captivated. And that's before I even found the breathtaking Duomo, towering over the city like a fairytale castle.
But first, my little darling pink tutu, (she's not just an outfit, she's a companion!), and I had to have a quick "fuel stop". Coffee, of course! And, in the most magnificent pink coffee cup I’ve ever seen! They just know how to treat a tutu in Milan!
Now, fully energised, we set off exploring Milan's grand boulevards. There was so much to see! The architecture – buildings with ornate balconies, intricate carvings, and vibrant frescoes, it felt like stepping back in time. And everywhere, the sweet scent of limoncello - divine! Imagine a ballerina on pointe, gliding through this charming Italian paradise… that’s how I feel.
Our journey led us through one of the city's most vibrant shopping districts. This was the "ballet heaven" of fabrics, sequins and embellishments that I have been waiting for. Forget your normal shops – these were treasure troves filled with glittering treasures for a girl's dress-up box. Every doorway tempted me with promises of lace, embroidery, and feathers. I spent a good hour browsing (it would’ve been more but darling Pink Tutu and I had a show to catch, and the last thing I want is to be late to the ballet!)
As a true lover of fashion, the Milan experience was an absolute joyride! It’s been years since I’ve had a shopping spree like that. Let's just say the Pink Tutu was well-stuffed with some extraordinary fabrics I can't wait to create outfits from back in Derbyshire. And of course, I bought myself the cutest pair of silver, star-shaped earrings to add that touch of sparkle. I love matching my earrings to my outfits - it just makes you feel complete.
The evening was all about ballet and a little slice of heaven: a performance by the prestigious Teatro alla Scala company. As soon as the lights dimmed and the stage shimmered under the spotlight, the atmosphere in the theatre was magical! I found myself whisked away by the grace of the dancers, the emotion conveyed through each gesture.
Every twirl and leap, every delicate step – I was completely entranced. You know I can't help but take in every detail – the costumes, the makeup, the elaborate sets. But even the music itself told a story! This ballet was about a woman’s journey through life, through its joys, struggles, and ultimate triumph. It had a touch of romance, a dash of heartache and, of course, moments of sheer elegance and joy! It left me breathless.
And it reminded me that every woman has a ballerina inside, waiting to come out! All it takes is a bit of confidence and a whole lot of pink... I mean, who doesn’t love pink?
I sat with a pink drink in a shimmering pink glass, just a little treat after such a beautiful performance, soaking in the vibrant energy of this fantastic city. It’s impossible not to get swept up in the spirit of Milan – a city that embraces beauty, creativity, and the artistry of dance in every form. This is the life for me, my darlings! Ballet, fashion, and adventures to inspire!
I can’t wait for tomorrow, filled with more exploring, more beautiful moments, more ballet, and I have a feeling some amazing outfits will be making an appearance! But for now, it’s time for this ballerina to say goodnight – dreaming of tutus, dancing and a pink world!
I leave you with this: Always wear a smile, remember to take time to smell the flowers (even if they’re not pink, occasionally!), and embrace your inner ballerina – even if it means slipping into a pink tutu, just for a moment!
And now, a final thought as I drift off: if every city had a colour, Milan would undoubtedly be pink!
Keep dancing, my dears, and stay tuned! Until next week, I wish you a day filled with joy, beauty and twirling delight!
Your dearest pink tutu blogger, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
