#PinkTutuMilan Wednesday 2016-10-05 ballet blog from Milano Italia

Ciao, darling!

Emma here, back from the glamorous streets of Milan with another overflowing blog post to brighten your day. You know the drill - Pink Tutu Diaries always bring you a whirl of ballet, fashion, and travel, all sprinkled with my signature sprinkle of pink!

As I sit here in my darling hotel room overlooking the majestic Duomo, I'm brimming with excitement! This week has been a pink paradise, packed with ballet magic, delicious pasta, and, of course, shopping. Oh, shopping! My suitcase is a glorious riot of lace and silk, each item perfectly curated to make this Milanese trip a total success.

Now, I must tell you about the breathtaking ballet performances that have completely stolen my heart.

The first thing that grabbed my attention in Milan was, naturally, the majestic Teatro alla Scala. You know me, I'm all about those historical gems with architectural beauty, and this opera house was an absolute dream. Stepping inside felt like travelling back in time, with velvet-draped balconies and carvings that took my breath away.

I managed to grab tickets to see "La Traviata," the famous opera by Verdi. It was pure enchantment! The singers were outstanding, the music transported me to a completely different world, and the staging? Well, simply exquisite. There was an aura of magic and history that really left an impact. I know what you’re thinking… what about the ballet?

Let's be honest, I always get my tutu fix, no matter where I go. So, the next day, I made a pilgrimage to Teatro San Carlo.

Teatro San Carlo was a whole new adventure. It’s the oldest opera house in Italy, and honestly, I couldn't help but squeal with excitement as I strolled up to its ornate facade. Just as stunning as Teatro alla Scala, it has an equally grand interior.

I’d already checked online what they were showing while I was here. I was very lucky, it was Giselle, and even luckier - the wonderful company of Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo, a troupe of highly skilled dancers from the French Riviera.

It was another performance to make me cry with emotion. From the opening scene to the final curtain, I was completely captivated. Giselle is such a romantic, heartbreaking ballet, the costumes, the music, the incredible dance choreography … it was a feast for the eyes and the soul. And let’s be honest, I can never resist the intricate details and delicate movement of classical ballet. It makes my tutu heart sing.

The whole atmosphere in the theatre, the excitement, the sound of the music, the sparkling costumes… all of it combined made for an utterly magical night. I felt so inspired to step into my own pointe shoes and get back to class as soon as I return to Derby.

Now, about my dance class at Scuola di Ballo. It was a real eye-opener for this tutu girl.

You know I’m a lover of everything ballet. I just couldn’t resist trying a local class whilst in Milan, to get a real feel of the Italian way of dancing.

I had this charming little ballet studio in mind, nestled away in one of the back streets of Milan, called Scuola di Ballo. The teacher, a lovely lady called Lucia, was full of enthusiasm. We practiced basic steps and footwork - so simple, yet incredibly precise. Lucia emphasized a smooth, elegant flow that felt so graceful. I was surrounded by talented Italian students who brought passion to every move, and I could feel that magic dancing right beside me!

The studio itself had a vintage charm, with large windows letting in streams of natural light and posters of ballerinas from every era decorating the walls.

Now, darling, it was definitely a reminder to get back to class!

But remember, Milan is about more than just ballet! It's about fashion, delicious Italian food, and discovering all the hidden treasures tucked away on its stylish streets.

Speaking of discoveries… you simply can't miss the Milan Tram! Yes, it's not the fastest way to travel, but that's where the charm comes in.

Trams glide around, offering stunning views of the cityscape, allowing me to feel the vibrant pulse of Milan. I loved how the city came alive as I rode those yellow beauties, filled with fashionable Milanese who could easily star in a magazine shoot. I even spotted some darling kids in pink tutus on one of my tram rides!

Remember my mantra? Pink is powerful. Let's get everyone wearing pink tutus!

Of course, Milan isn't Milan without a trip to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The majestic arcade was an experience! Think high-fashion boutiques and designer labels galore! It’s hard not to lose yourself in the architectural grandeur and feel like you've been transported into a glamorous Italian movie.

I love the juxtaposition of beautiful vintage stores with high-end designer brands, making for such a delightful mix. Plus, a lovely coffee or gelato makes any shopping trip even better, am I right?

And what about the fashion? Let's just say my wardrobe is forever grateful.

Ah, darling, you know my shopping stories are the best part! And Milan was no disappointment!

My mission, of course, was to find those must-have pink pieces that would complement my favourite tutus! I adore vintage lace, silky blouses with pretty detailing, and any outfit that whispers "effortless chic."

I picked up a fabulous pair of coral suede pumps for dancing the night away at the * Teatro San Carlo*, a dreamy lavender silk dress that feels so good on the skin ( perfect for a date with Mr. Pink Tutu… whenever I find him! 😉 ), and a whimsical pink handbag that instantly elevates any look!

It's amazing what you can find in a city brimming with fashion creativity.

Of course, I couldn’t resist a touch of vintage fashion, discovering a beautiful pink feather boa from the 1950s that is utterly perfect for that extra dose of sparkle! And for that final flourish, a dainty pink hat with delicate lace. Yes, I can always use a little bit of extra flair, don’t you think?

The shops of Milan just love their pink, too!

You have to admit, it’s one of the most flattering, feminine and energetic colours there is. You don’t even have to be in a ballet class to wear one - my point of view is that pink should be a part of everyone’s everyday fashion, as soon as possible!

Speaking of my little pink tutu… You bet, it came with me, and made its glamorous Milan debut!

Darling, Milan just adores my little pink tutu. Everywhere I go, it’s a conversation starter, attracting smiles and admiring glances. Milan's grand architecture and elegant charm complement the tulle and sequins like a perfectly staged theatrical set. From walking across cobbled streets to admiring the sculptures at Piazza del Duomo, the city's atmosphere embraced my pink passion! It made every stroll feel like a glamorous dance!

Even the cafe owners had compliments, with a few of them asking me if they could snap my photo.

It was fantastic - but not the best thing that happened.

Oh, remember my first visit to the * Teatro alla Scala* ? I found out they offer “Scala e Ballet Tours.” I know, you're thinking… “What could be more delightful!”

It took me on a whirlwind journey through the backstage of the opera house - so glamorous! It was a chance to see where the magic happens! The costuming room with those amazing costumes for “La Traviata” ( you’ve already seen what a dazzling performance this was), and the dance studio… all this backstage stuff just oozes history! I was totally captivated.

But, the best part?

A special gift! It was an exquisite book all about the Teatro Alla Scala with its history and many stories. My Milan experience just keeps getting more magical! I’ve just added to my wish list another pink ribbon book mark for it! 😉

With the memories of Giselle still a twinkle in my eye, my trip to Milan ends in a delightful mix of sweet sorrow and pink dreams!

Milan has a special place in my heart - its culture, the enchanting opera house, the beauty of its streets, and of course, the endless opportunity to dance the night away with a perfectly fitting tutu, make this a city I'd travel to time and time again.

So, until next week, my lovelies. I’ll be back here with a new blog post!

And, as always, never forget my pink philosophy: Tutus are not just for ballet.

Go on, dare to wear pink!

See you soon.

Ciao for now!

P.S Don’t forget to subscribe to my website www.pink-tutu.com, so you’ll never miss any more of Pink Tutu’s Milan adventures.

As this blog is fictional, dates may differ from what’s on offer and available, but for all you tutu fans and those looking to experience Milan, it should be a wonderful place to start your pink-inspired planning.