#PinkTutuMilan Wednesday 2016-02-10 ballet blog from Milano Italia

Buongiorno, darlings! It's Emma from Derbyshire, your pink tutu-loving ballerina blogger, back with another Milan adventure from the heart of Italy. This week, we're celebrating fashion, ballet and a touch of whimsy as I sashay through the streets of this chic city.

For this week's Pink Tutu Milan blog, I'm delighted to be reporting from a glorious Wednesday in February. I know, I know - not exactly peak tourist season. But you see, the charm of Milan lies in its ability to entice even during the off-peak months. The atmosphere is calmer, the crowds are smaller, and the boutiques are overflowing with hidden treasures just waiting for a pink-tutu-wearing fashionista to discover them.

As for me, I was drawn to the Milan Opera House. On this Wednesday, the magnificent Teatro alla Scala is preparing for another stunning evening of ballet. Just the thought of it gets my heart fluttering, my tutu swishing. Can you picture it? The magnificent, historic venue, the glittering lights, the elegant audience, the sheer magic of ballet unfolding before my very eyes? I couldn't resist attending, and I’m here to share every moment with you!

But before I take you inside this breathtaking theatre, let’s chat a bit about my own fabulous journey to the heart of Italian culture. Remember those stunning fashion shoots you see in magazines, showcasing exquisite garments with breathtaking Milan backdrops? It’s truly something else. And guess who’s experiencing it all first hand? That’s right, me!

The thing about Milan is that it has a very specific aesthetic – sophistication, elegance, and a touch of the avant-garde. It's the city where haute couture meets street style, and I have to admit, my inner fashionista is screaming with joy. Now, as you all know, pink tutus are my passion, and I was on a mission to discover the most elegant, quirky, and glamorous accessories to pair with my pink tulle. And, darling, I must say, Milan did not disappoint.

Before hitting the theatre, I had an amazing afternoon scouring the streets. I spent hours exploring the Duomo’s magnificent grandeur, before venturing to Via Montenapoleone, the ultimate fashion hub. Oh my, darling! It’s a haven of high-end designer boutiques. Imagine rows and rows of beautiful shop fronts – Armani, Prada, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana – the list goes on. Honestly, I was in a world of fashion fantasy.

My Pink Tutu mission led me to a delightful boutique tucked away from the more obvious fashion heavyweights. It was charming and chic, filled with accessories that whispered luxury. I snagged a pair of bejeweled ballet shoes (my toes twirled with excitement at the mere thought of dancing in them) and a beautiful vintage broach with delicate pearls, both a perfect complement to my pink tutu.

But it wasn't all about luxury. I love exploring those unexpected corners, hidden gems that reveal the heart and soul of a city. I took a trip on the famous Milan Tram - a must-do for any fashionista. You see, it’s not just about the destination but also the journey itself, and let me tell you, I soaked up every inch of the experience. The tram carried me past some beautiful art nouveau buildings and cafes brimming with life. The city pulsated with energy.

Of course, my ultimate destination was the grand Teatro Alla Scala. Honestly, stepping inside this breathtaking opera house is like entering a world of dreams. The architectural grandeur is almost impossible to describe. Imagine gold-gilded details, a velvety red interior, the faint scent of aged wood and a hint of theatrical magic in the air – pure decadence.

This time, I chose a stunning pink tutu from my latest collection, with a layer of shimmering lace and a touch of shimmering silver. It's the kind of tutu that's perfect for feeling like a ballerina princess. The show I watched was ‘Giselle’ - the ballet of broken hearts and ghostly vengeance. I know, it’s a bit dramatic, but don't worry, my dear, nothing is quite as tragic in real life, especially in fabulous fashion-filled Milan.

I watched in awe as the dancers glided and twirled across the stage, their every move captivating the audience. The sheer skill and dedication were inspiring. Ballet is an art form that speaks without words, a dance of emotions and physical artistry. The performance itself was mesmerising, taking me on a whirlwind journey of romance, passion, and loss.

As the curtains drew closed and applause filled the theatre, I was truly spellbound. It wasn't just the artistry of the dancers, the magnificence of the performance, or the exquisite architecture; it was the feeling of belonging. It was the magic of sharing that passion for ballet with like-minded souls. It’s what truly brings this dance form to life.

As my pink tutu glided me back out of the grand Teatro, my inner fashionista took over. I love experiencing Milan's night life after the theatre. After all, there's more to the city than just ballet! I’m always on the hunt for hidden gems and hidden treasures that a tourist guide would never reveal.

There was a little restaurant tucked away off a bustling street, serving up the most divine risotto I've ever tasted. It was the kind of place where I knew I had to return and indulge. Afterwards, I made my way to a small cocktail bar. They serve these incredible, beautifully handcrafted cocktails - it was truly a masterpiece of artistry. The music was soft and enchanting, creating an atmosphere perfect for a glass of something sparkly and a conversation with a newfound friend.

But no journey to Milan is complete without a dose of local culture. The city has this incredible tradition of walking and talking under the moonlight, soaking up the atmosphere and taking in all the beauty around you. So, after my cocktail escapade, I ventured back into the night, relishing in the soft breeze and the lights dancing on the cobbles. Milan really comes alive at night.

It's times like these that remind me why I do what I do, my dear readers. The joy of discovering new cities, soaking up the atmosphere, falling in love with ballet, and sharing those magical moments with you. As a Pink Tutu ballerina, my goal isn’t just about wearing pink, though that is a lovely aspiration. It’s about encouraging every girl and every woman to embrace their individuality and inner ballerina, wherever they are.

Whether you're watching a ballet performance in a grand opera house or gliding through a busy city, it’s about discovering the art, the magic and the joy within each step. Let your pink tutu, metaphorical or literal, be a symbol of your inner spirit, your individual beauty, and your confidence.

So, until next week’s Pink Tutu Milan adventure, remember – the world is your stage. Embrace the pink tutu within and twirl on!

*Don’t forget, you can catch up on my Pink Tutu blog every Monday at www.pink-tutu.com and follow my ballet and fashion journey across Instagram and Twitter! *

Lots of love and twirlingly wishes,

Emma