Buongiorno, darling readers!
It’s Emma, your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, and this week, I’m writing to you from the fashion capital of the world – Milan, Italy! I just arrived a couple of days ago, and I’m already completely smitten. Imagine, dear readers, the city of catwalks and couture, where the pavements are made of cobblestones, and every street corner feels like a photo-op waiting to happen!
And I’m not even talking about the amazing architecture yet. Talk about fabulous! I’m talking about the amazing shopping! Milan, you've been on my travel bucket list forever, and let me tell you, it’s lived up to the hype. This place is just oozing with style, darling, and as soon as I arrived, I knew I’d need at least three more suitcases to hold everything I needed to wear here!
But as always, the most important part of my travels is the ballet. And Milan does not disappoint, lovelies!
My journey began back in Derbyshire, where I managed to squeeze in a performance with the local ballet company. A charity fundraiser at a quaint, historic hall, you know the sort – with an amazing crowd! It’s wonderful to be able to perform back home, a great reminder of my roots, before embarking on exciting travels! And you bet I made my fellow performers look stylish, donning a fabulously vibrant pink tutu - wouldn't expect anything less, would we?!
I grabbed a steaming cup of tea and a freshly baked scone (one has to fuel a ballet performance!), then caught a train from Chesterfield, bound for Euston, the starting point of my journey to Milan!
It's so fun to ride a train for long journeys like this! I got to watch the British countryside whizz by as we made our way down south. London felt as bustling as ever! I loved catching up on old-timey traditions as I hopped on a tube ride with a crowd of people squeezed like sardines. Before I knew it, I was back on the Eurostar for the trip over the channel. Being on the continent felt incredibly exciting! And I managed to catch some sleep, making my arrival in Paris at 4 pm even smoother!
Paris was a whirlwind of a stop, but it was full of fun, fashion, and memories. The journey through France to Milan on the train, oh la la! This stretch of journey was a true pleasure, and so I made sure to capture every beautiful countryside view from the window. My favourite part? A charming cafe with beautiful scenery, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up! It felt very Belle et Bête don’t you think?!
As soon as I stepped onto the platform in Milan, I was enveloped in the atmosphere! Milan feels truly exciting, alive, and full of vibrant energy – with amazing architecture around every corner and delicious smells drifting from every cafe and restaurant. This is what I call travelling! It’s been an absolute whirlwind, a beautiful journey across three countries. And I feel very Italian already, don’t you agree?!
First things first, I did what every fashion-forward girl does when in Milan - I explored the designer shops! You’ll forgive me for indulging in a little retail therapy after a long day, right? A perfect way to truly get to grips with the Italian fashion scene, let me tell you! The craftsmanship here is breathtaking.
I fell in love with a beautiful, silk blouse in a stunning shade of lavender - a colour, I feel, that is almost pink but with a hint of a cool, romantic hue - I love a subtle, playful twist! It perfectly embodied that unique Milanese blend of classic elegance with an undeniably modern touch, perfect for a night out on the town.
Oh, and speaking of going out, I just knew my perfect outfit for my evening in Milan was going to involve my go-to-tutu, and the blush-pink blouse with its shimmering detail, I’ll have to write a full post on my latest sartorial finds, you simply must see them!
Once I settled in to my darling boutique hotel, I was all set for a truly spectacular evening! You see, I’m not one for missing a performance, no matter what city I’m in. The world of ballet is always calling. I found out that Teatro alla Scala was holding an amazing performance – “La Bayadere” – on my first evening in Milan. The theatre itself was breathtaking. Think stunning arches, velvet curtains, and ornate decorations - such a fabulous space to get swept up in a tale of romance and drama! The music was captivating, and the performance was captivating too. And I had a glorious seat. Just amazing.
While there’s something really magical about experiencing theatre, even better is being in the backstage world!
My lucky week didn’t stop there, darlings, because this weekend I had the chance to take a ballet class at one of the best studios in Milan – and I have to say, the level was pretty high, and oh so competitive!
The teacher was absolutely amazing – I’d say a real perfectionist in the best way, you know – and every dancer seemed as passionate about ballet as I am! Even as I tried to get through my class in perfect, stylish attire – there are some days, you simply can't wear a pink tutu to ballet class (I do love that tutu, though!) I learned a new sense of how Italian ballet is so passionate and driven. There was something really invigorating about getting out of my comfort zone, working up a good sweat with my new classmates, and discovering some incredible new steps. Oh, to be a young dancer in Milan – just perfect, isn't it?
It’s certainly got me feeling more motivated to hone my skills.
In between my ballet excursions, of course, I had to experience everything else that Milan had to offer! I have this amazing, and super-adorable, tiny Vespa. It was bright yellow with a wicker basket strapped on, and it is now the main way I’ve been exploring this fascinating city! My latest discovery – this wonderful tram line – such an affordable, picturesque way to get around. It’s not all about fancy Vespas, darling – a good, classic tram is always a great option too!
A highlight for me was the city’s iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II - a breathtaking shopping mall right in the heart of Milan. This gorgeous space features beautiful stained-glass ceilings, stylish boutiques, and a real feel for old-time glamour! It was just my speed, darling! And with the Christmas lights already being switched on - I must confess to feeling that bit of extra holiday cheer. I simply cannot resist the joy that Christmas brings. But I’ve been sure to pace myself, as a fellow ballerina blogger put it to me once – don’t go overboard on holiday goodies yet, the most glorious ones are always saved for last, and darling – you simply can't have the last one without finishing the first one, eh?!
I have, of course, sampled all the fabulous treats this city has to offer. You can’t go to Italy and not experience their delicious cuisine – let me tell you! So, I’ve indulged in the most heavenly gelato – pistachio flavour – and, of course, authentic pasta – perfect with an amazing, wine (it has to be good, darling! ). But the greatest thing about Italian food? You have to finish it, of course, every single crumb – no room for wasted food here, darling!
So, dear readers, Milan has really blown me away with its blend of culture, fashion, and beauty – there are truly endless places to explore, but I promise to keep you updated about them on this week’s post and many more!
There's an electric energy about Milan that I absolutely love - maybe it's the combination of the historical architecture, the contemporary fashion, and the passionate residents - maybe it’s because it feels like the entire city is always bustling with life. Whatever it is, I'm in love with this place! I can’t wait to explore more of Milan and discover all the secrets this vibrant city holds!
Until next time, darlings, remember: life’s too short not to wear pink tutus. Just wear one. And don't forget to leave me your comments below.
Ciao, ciao!
Emma xx
