Ciao, darlings!
It's Wednesday, the 11th of May, and your favourite pink-loving ballerina is back from another whirl around the glamorous streets of Milan! This week has been an absolute whirlwind of tutus, trains, and tons of delicious gelato. Don't worry, I'll spill all the deets - because as you know, I'm all about sharing the love and inspiring you to embrace your inner pink tutu-wearing goddess.
Now, as I sit here sipping my cappucchino (yes, with extra sugar - I'm not that healthy), I can practically feel the energy of this magnificent city pulsating around me. I love the way Milan mixes that old world Italian charm with a modern, edgy, and of course, incredibly chic vibe. I haven't even stepped into a theatre yet and already my tutu is practically dancing on its own!
So, let's get to it, shall we? Buckle up, my darlings, because this is one fabulous Wednesday to recount.
Travel Tales: Trams and Trains
I have to tell you, the journey to Milan was pure bliss. Starting in Derbyshire, a charming little county in England that's definitely on the map for tea rooms and picturesque villages (I'll be blogging about it soon, promise!), the train whisked me away. As soon as I hopped on, I knew I was in for a treat - the rhythmic rocking of the train felt like an ode to the ballerina's waltz, and the breathtaking landscapes flashing by felt like a magnificent ballet performance on fast forward.
Arriving in Milan, I decided to try out the city's iconic tram system. Now, let's be honest, they're not the fanciest trams around, but there's something absolutely delightful about their old-world charm, the tinkling bells, and that iconic yellow and green livery that pops against the cityscape. I felt like I was in a scene from a Fellini movie, and, in my best Audrey Hepburn impression, I even threw in a wave to a few passers-by (just for good measure).
A Parisian Touch in Milan:
Milan's magic doesn't just stop at its iconic fashion, art, and architecture; even its street art is a stunning blend of the classic and the contemporary. My day started with a delightful encounter - a giant mural painted in vibrant colours on a brick wall in the heart of the city, a whimsical ode to Parisian life, filled with quaint cafes, striped umbrellas, and delicate flowers, just like a scene from a movie set. It brought back memories of my recent visit to Paris - another one of my absolute favourite cities. But you know what they say - there's always room in my ballerina's heart for a new city and, frankly, the more tutus the merrier.
Shopping Spree - Milan's Fashion Oasis
Where to even begin, darlings? I am obsessed with Milan's shopping scene. It's not just the grand luxury stores lining Via Monte Napoleone, but the quaint boutiques tucked away in quiet corners, the vintage treasures unearthed in flea markets, the bustling fabric stalls brimming with colours and textures. This city is simply a symphony for the senses.
I swear, my senses went into overdrive when I saw a little vintage boutique near my hotel - it felt like a time capsule from the glamorous 50s! They even had an exquisite hand-stitched tutu from that era - I almost died, darlings. Luckily, I remembered my ballerina's self-control. And with my pink tutu pride shining through, I couldn't resist picking up a pair of bright red high heels, a chic black blazer, and a vibrant scarf with an oversized print (my absolute favourite) for a touch of vintage flair.
Later in the afternoon, I felt drawn to the Teatro alla Scala (don't worry, I'll tell you more about that later), and took a walk around the nearby neighbourhood. My love of vintage and thrifting led me to a cute little antique store called "Vecchie Meraviglie" (Old Wonders) tucked away on a charming cobblestone street.
Oh, and my darling! Can you believe my luck? They had a selection of tutus tucked away in a corner! Not just any tutus - I’m talking tutus with the most beautiful layers of tulle and delicate lace trimmings, each one looking like it was hand-stitched by the fairies of the stage. I knew instantly that I needed to add one to my collection.
I selected a beautiful soft pink one, just the right shade to match my cheeks, and an equally fabulous light purple tutu - I couldn't leave without it! Now my pink tutu family is growing bigger and bolder, and it just keeps on getting better and better.
The Night at the Theatre - La Scala's Enchanting Melody
The night reached its crescendo at La Scala - the jewel in the crown of Milan’s performing arts. Honestly, I felt a surge of nervous excitement that was a bit of a shock, especially when you consider I’m used to being up on stage myself! I had bought tickets to see a rendition of Verdi's "La Traviata," a story about love and tragedy that always resonates with me.
The sheer elegance of La Scala, the rich red velvet seats, the intricate gilded ceiling, the feeling of hushed anticipation in the air - it all made for such a wonderful, immersive experience.
Then, the music began. I have to admit, I’m not an opera connoisseur but, as a lover of the stage, I'm completely drawn to the passion and intensity of the art form. The first act began with a captivating opening scene – all soaring voices, powerful movements and emotions, it just seemed like a dance in a grand ball where emotions were dancing alongside the actors themselves.
I swear I was so lost in the world of the story, in that atmosphere, I could even picture the tutu swirling on stage, its elegance and light capturing every dramatic pause.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Emma, that tutu looks absolutely fab with a designer gown - you just HAVE to go to the fashion show!” And I won’t disappoint, my darling! This brings me to what we’ve all been waiting for…
Milan Fashion Week - Ready for Runway Inspiration!
Oh my goodness, it’s Milan Fashion Week and I’m beyond thrilled! Imagine myself, your girl with her signature pink tutu, right in the heart of all this glamour and extravagance. What an experience! The entire city is abuzz with the buzz of designers and photographers – every coffee shop I go into seems to have someone discussing a new trend or analyzing a design with absolute seriousness.
It is a truly captivating feeling. I was especially impressed by how many of the shows embraced the art of the dance, from the flow of the silhouettes and the vibrant hues on the runways, it all just seems to move in a graceful dance, especially when you look at how the fashion shows are using the models. Not to mention the elegant clothes on display…
But even among all the trends and luxury, my pink tutu heart is always looking for inspiration and something that can put a unique spin on a traditional tutu. Who knows what the upcoming designs will inspire me to create - perhaps a pink tutu-inspired streetwear piece or an edgy outfit with a a touch of tutuesque tulle for that ethereal feeling?
So stay tuned for updates, my darlings.
I will also be catching some performances at Teatro Strehler for the ultimate ballet fix – can’t wait to soak in that inspiring energy and experience the joy of ballet in the Milanese spirit! I’ll keep you posted on all the fabulous details - from the costumes, to the performance style to the backstage stories, everything!
Spread the Pink Tutu Love:
Right, my darling, I’ve gotta dash. More fabulous adventures await and you just know I’m going to embrace every second of it.
Until next week, stay strong and don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of pink tutu magic wherever you go.
With all the love from your very own pink-tutu-wearing balletia blogger,
Emma xo
