Hello my lovely tutu-twirling friends! It's your favourite Derbyshire rose, Emma, writing to you live from the heart of Milan! The energy here is electric - a whirlwind of style, sophistication and, of course, enough pink to make even the most hardcore black-and-white fashionista blush! This week's Milan adventure is going to be a real treat for all you ballet-lovers, so buckle up and grab your fanciest pink tutu (it's Milan, darling, there's always a reason for a twirl).
Ciao Bella, From the Train Station to the City Centre
I arrived at the beautiful Milano Centrale station a few hours ago - such an impressive building, with its high vaulted ceilings and sweeping staircases. It's like stepping into a time capsule of Italian elegance, and I swear I spotted a couple of handsome men who looked like they'd stepped out of a classic movie! It took me back to those childhood dreams of being whisked away by a dashing prince... alas, they seem to only exist in the movies (except for those gorgeous ballerina-loving boys who attend my classes back in Derby... wink, wink!).
But I digress! The journey on the train from Rome was perfectly delightful. The Italian landscape never ceases to amaze me with its breathtaking colours - the vibrant greens of the countryside, the crystal-clear blue skies and the majestic snow-capped mountains peeking over the horizon. The sunshine has been incredible. This sunshine is something you just don't get in England unless it's summer. This feels like a good day for a pink tutu in the city!
It wasn't long until the bustling energy of the city centre hit me like a gust of fresh, Milanese air. I love how effortlessly stylish people are here! A beautifully dressed woman, her face half-hidden behind large sunglasses, strolled by, her perfect pink clutch matching the swirling silk scarf that danced in the wind as she went. I, of course, took this as inspiration to get out my very own "Milan Pink" tutu (the colour, if you're wondering, is a unique blend of pastel rose and soft coral, perfect for making a statement yet staying classy). The pink tutu always draws attention and often makes me smile because it takes a certain sort of person to pull off the confidence required. It takes me to another world, I feel very much like a princess who wants to move and groove! I often think I could never do anything else than wear the tutu, dance, teach and spend money in fashion boutiques - I have a certain talent for being me, I suppose!
Fashion, Flair & Fantastic Footwear
My very first stop was, of course, the enchanting Piazza Duomo. I had to pay my respects to Milan’s glorious Cathedral - truly a masterpiece! Its intricate architecture and breathtaking detail mesmerized me for hours. You wouldn't believe the incredible photos I managed to snag (don't worry, I'll be sharing them all on Instagram later!).
Now, there’s nothing more captivating than a visit to Milan’s fabulous Via Montenapoleone. It’s practically a shrine to high fashion, overflowing with designer boutiques that shimmer with silk, satin and exquisite leather goods. I literally gasped when I entered my favourite boutique, Gucci, the shop itself was a delight. They are just so chic. But, I was determined not to splurge until I saw the opera this evening (because one cannot simply stroll into the Milan opera without a stunning new ensemble!). Oh, the struggle of being a ballerina blogger with a fashion-hungry heart!
After all that excitement, my feet deserved some serious pampering! A perfect cappuccino, laced with rich Italian sweetness and enjoyed amidst the charm of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II was just what I needed to restore my energy. Then, of course, there was the most important part of the shopping spree: footwear! After all, the right shoe can turn even the simplest of outfits into a captivating symphony of style! You wouldn't believe the amazing Italian craftsmanship, I picked up the most incredible suede ballet flats, perfect for gliding through the streets of Milan (without even a hint of a tired foot!) I just love having a new pair of ballet flats! They feel like a beautiful and soft kiss to my feet.
Teatro alla Scala - Opera Magic & Pink Tutu Prowess
After an exhilarating day spent immersing myself in all things Milan, my senses were abuzz. But one question still lingered in my mind: “What should I wear tonight for the Teatro alla Scala?”
I knew I had to make a statement - this was no ordinary ballet, darling! The La Scala Opera House, one of the most famous opera houses in the world, demands the most refined fashion flair. You have to keep it classy, which is a bit of a challenge for me, especially in the fashion heart of the world! To make sure that my pink tutu took centre stage tonight, I needed an outfit that would truly showcase it - an ensemble that oozed sophistication while staying true to my flamboyant heart.
After a lot of pacing and head-scratching (the perfect outfit often takes time to create, like a beautiful piece of ballet choreography), I knew just what to do. I dug into my trusty suitcase and emerged with a stunning, velvet navy gown. Its smooth fabric draped effortlessly over my form, and it complemented the vibrant pink tutu beautifully - the colours and textures working together in perfect harmony!
I finished the look with a sleek black clutch, shimmering emerald earrings and a tiny pink feather boa to give a nod to my playful side. I felt like a queen stepping into a royal ballroom... only with the fabulousness of a ballet princess (all in a pink tutu!).
I confess I felt a little intimidated going into Teatro alla Scala, its iconic status casting a powerful spell over me. It’s a grand theatre in every sense of the word - an architectural marvel that whispered tales of grand performances and legendary artists. Even as we waited to take our seats, a shiver of anticipation danced down my spine, fuelled by the palpable excitement that filled the air!
And what an opera it was! I won't give you the details but let’s just say that the voices, the storytelling and the entire experience simply transported me to another world, where emotions ran high and the human spirit soared. It’s hard to articulate how this performance moved me so profoundly - and that’s what I love about opera. It's a unique kind of magic that transcends words.
Of course, my pink tutu stole the show - every time the lights went up I felt a wave of delight as the vibrant colour burst from the velvet depths of my gown. There’s no mistaking my pink tutu - it truly is a little piece of me that walks wherever I go, making a splash wherever I dare to twirl.
Fashion & Flair: My Milan Shopping Spree
I confess: after such a powerful and inspiring evening, the call of the fashion world was a siren song that I simply couldn't resist. So, naturally, after the opera, a little (ok, perhaps more than a little) post-show shopping was in order.
Milan really is a fashion dreamland. Even the streets buzz with an infectious energy that ignites every fashionista’s soul! But tonight, the enchanting streets of Milan held a magic even more potent than its regular fashion magnetism: the glow of post-opera exuberance had permeated every cobblestone and neon light, transforming them into a breathtaking symphony of style, and it filled me with a desire for all things bright and beautiful. I am not a person who can resist shopping when the moment is right!
With that exhilarating feeling coursing through my veins, I couldn’t help but indulge my every whim in the designer boutiques lining the streets. And you know what, darling? I didn't even regret a single purchase!
There’s a magic to the way a brand new item transforms a look and makes you feel confident, and I was reveling in the feeling, completely enraptured by the elegance of the Milanese scene.
I felt like I was dancing in a beautifully crafted dream as I twirled out of each boutique, each new piece fitting perfectly into my growing wardrobe - a vibrant symphony of colours and textures. A silk scarf here, a pair of velvet opera gloves there... and just to cap it all off, I picked up a few new tutus to add to my ever-growing collection! They weren't just any old tutus, darling! I found some glorious pieces, some handmade in Italy, each boasting an unique pattern or sparkling design - you just have to stay tuned for some glamorous outfit pictures.
More Adventures Await
It's amazing how many fashion boutiques are open late in Milan, and my tutu turned more than a few heads. The Italian people love fashion - and when it’s paired with the joy of dance (and the colour pink) well, that's truly a combination that knows no boundaries. I truly love my pink tutu, even in this fashion-obsessed metropolis. Milan’s charm knows no bounds, it truly inspires every facet of my being.
It's late and I've already packed away my pink tutu. I can barely keep my eyes open, even with the adrenaline rush that my Milano fashion marathon gave me. Tomorrow is a new day - filled with more adventures and the thrilling discovery of a new world. Perhaps some Italian dancing? Maybe even some tango lessons! And I will definitely be searching for the most enchanting bakeries. I can just see a delicate almond croissant being devoured, right next to my cappuccino - perfect Italian ballet fuel. Until next time, my darling tutu friends!
Yours always, in the twirling embrace of the Milan sunshine,
Emma
