#PinkTutuMilan Wednesday 2021-02-24 ballet blog from Milano Italia

Ciao bella! It's your favourite pink tutu wearing ballerina blogger Emma, writing to you live from sunny Milan, Italy! Can you believe it's February already? The days are getting longer and the sun is starting to feel warmer - perfect weather for a spot of ballet shopping and, of course, wearing a fabulous pink tutu!

This week I've been living the dream, travelling the chic streets of Milan in search of the most beautiful ballet gear, exquisite fashion finds, and indulging in a spot of people-watching from the window of a charming cafe.

You know how much I love my ballet classes - and this week was no exception! I headed to the prestigious Teatro alla Scala, one of the most iconic opera houses in the world. It was an absolute dream just being there. It’s almost like stepping back in time with its gilded ceilings and rich velvet seats. I swear I saw a glimpse of La Scala’s ghost dancers twirling through the air in the grand foyer!

The class itself was pure joy. A small but very dedicated group of ballerinas, all dedicated to perfecting their pirouettes and arabesques. The teacher, a graceful and inspiring woman with a beautiful flowing red scarf, really challenged me. She said I was "gifted with natural elegance and precision". My confidence has certainly soared. It's lovely to feel like I'm constantly progressing in my ballet journey, especially with such incredible guidance.

Speaking of progression, I've been working on some exciting new moves this week, a tricky sequence involving a grand jeté with a half turn - all while maintaining a smile! It was harder than it looks! But, you know me, I love a good challenge.

Side Note: Did you know that the word "jeté" actually means "thrown" in French? Imagine being literally thrown through the air by the force of your leaps. Sounds pretty cool, right?

After class, I treated myself to the most delicious cappuccino and a pastry filled with fresh strawberries at a quaint little cafe across the street. Perfect fuel for my post-ballet energy boost!

My week wouldn't be complete without some serious sightseeing. I’ve been making the most of Milan's beautiful architecture, strolling down cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, admiring the intricate details of Duomo, and exploring the city's iconic fashion district. The vibrancy and elegance of Milan is infectious. You can just feel the creative energy coursing through the air, making it an ideal city for those of us with a passion for fashion and art.

Milan is truly a treat for the senses. From the delectable smells wafting out of cafes, to the stunning sights, and the joyful sounds of street musicians playing their heart out, it's a symphony of joy for all the senses.

One of my favourite activities this week has been taking long tram rides, exploring the diverse neighbourhoods and getting a feel for the real Milanese life. It's been an absolute joy to witness the hustle and bustle of everyday life and witness the fascinating mix of cultures that come together in this captivating city.

Milan, I love your effortless style, your chic coffee shops, your inspiring atmosphere. You’ve truly captured my heart, especially when you reveal your vibrant heart under the warm Italian sun.

Oh, where to begin! This city is simply a haven for fashion lovers!

The boutiques, oh, the boutiques! You'd be amazed by the creativity on display in Milan's shops. From haute couture to stylish streetwear, the diversity is breathtaking!

Naturally, my primary focus has been on ballet-inspired fashion. This city is brimming with the most amazing stores, and the most spectacular range of tutus you could imagine. They have everything, from the delicate chiffon to the more robust satin tutus. Some have dazzling glitter, others have delicate floral motifs – they’re just divine.

This week I managed to snag a couple of pink tutu gems. A dazzling one made from soft, feathery pink fabric, perfect for a gala performance or a romantic night out, and another more casual, with beautiful floral lace embellishments - just right for a day of shopping or a visit to a local cafe.

Let’s just say I’ve been living my best pink tutu life in Milan, and these new acquisitions will make a great addition to my wardrobe!

I can’t stress enough how much my love for tutus gives me a burst of happiness! You could say tutus are my little pick-me-up. And what better place to find that perfect little pick-me-up than in Milan.

This week has been such a treat, a journey for my heart and my soul. Every day has been an adventure, and my inner ballerina is absolutely loving every second of it!

And if I could offer any advice, it’s to embrace the feeling of pure joy and excitement, even when things feel tough. Because trust me, even on the hardest days, that feeling of twirling in a tutu makes all the difference!

I have more amazing adventures planned in Milan, including exploring the stunning art scene, tasting authentic Italian delicacies, and maybe even indulging in a spot of gelato (or ten!). But most importantly, I'm continuing to spread the pink tutu love wherever I go! I want to see every single one of you twirling around with a pink tutu on, because life is simply too short not to embrace the magic of ballet.

Ciao bella, until next time!

It feels a little strange to be in this magical fashion city. I grew up in Derbyshire, surrounded by rolling green hills and a slower pace of life. It's funny to think I’ve traded sheep for couture and charming little villages for bustling metropolitan streets.

I’m embracing every second of my adventures. From my days as a student at The Derby School of Ballet to these exciting days as a ballerina blogger - every experience shapes and guides me.

Milan has been an absolute whirlwind, a city that moves at the speed of light! I wouldn't have it any other way. There's an energy here that simply doesn't exist in Derbyshire - although it has it's own charm, and the sheep always say hello to me when I come home. But when I think of ballet, when I think of fashion, when I think of that beautiful, graceful energy I am meant to be, I can only think of the stunning magic of this beautiful, fast-paced, stylish Italian city!

• Monday: Arrived in Milan and settled into my adorable little hotel. Had lunch at the most picturesque cafe by the Duomo.
• Tuesday: First ballet class at the Teatro alla Scala – just wow! Spent the evening in the charming Navigli district.
• Wednesday: A day of sightseeing. Took a long tram ride, explored the Duomo, and visited the breathtaking Pinacoteca di Brera.
• Thursday: Shopping extravaganza! Hit the boutiques for tutus, ballet shoes, and beautiful, stylish outfits.
• Friday: More ballet practice and evening performance. Met up with some talented fellow ballerinas from the area.
• Saturday: An art and culture day, visiting Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Last Supper," and taking in an afternoon show at Teatro Manzoni.
• Sunday: Relaxation day, writing this blog post and prepping for another amazing week in Milan!

What are some of your favorite ballet stories? Any inspirational ballerinas you look up to? What are some of your favourite cities? I love hearing from my readers!

I look forward to your stories!

Love, Emma x