Ciao bella! 🩰✨ It's Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu aficionado, reporting live from the magical metropolis that is Milan! This week, the Milanese sunshine has been practically glowing pink, which is quite literally my favourite colour you know. 💖 It's a good thing I packed my rainbow of tutus for this trip! From vibrant fuchsia to blushing baby pink, my suitcase was a swirling spectacle of sartorial delight.
This is my third visit to Milan and honestly, every time it feels like falling head over heels for the city all over again. The cobbled streets, the grand architecture, the delicious smells wafting from cafes… it's just pure magic! 💫 And what’s even better, I'm here for a double whammy of fun: a legendary ballet show at the Teatro alla Scala, plus a special performance at the stunning Teatro Nuovo, where I'll be twirling my tutu with a fabulous ensemble. 🤩
Getting Here: From Derbyshire to Milan - Train Dreams
To kick off this adventure, I opted for a classic European journey: a scenic train ride from Derbyshire to Milan. The sleek, high-speed trains of Italy are so smooth, luxurious and stylish, and just the perfect way to soak in the beautiful countryside. As I whizzed past picturesque vineyards and quaint villages, I couldn’t help but feel like a modern day Cinderella on her way to the ball! 🚂👠
My Favourite Things in Milan
As you know, I’m all about those gorgeous, vintage Parisian vibes with a dash of flamboyant Parisian street style, and you guessed it, Milan has it in spades! 🤩 From the trendy shops on Corso Buenos Aires to the bustling boutiques around the Duomo, it’s a real treat for the senses, and for a pink tutu-loving girl like myself, it’s pure heaven.
Speaking of the Duomo… It’s absolutely stunning! 😍 This gothic masterpiece is adorned with ornate sculptures and stained-glass windows. Just gazing up at it makes me feel like I’ve stepped into a fairy tale.
And the food? Forget everything you thought you knew about Italian cuisine! In Milan, it’s all about artisanal ingredients, culinary masterpieces, and an exquisite combination of flavours. From traditional Milanese dishes like Ossobuco and Risotto alla Milanese to the mouthwatering pizzas and creamy gelatos, my tastebuds are doing a celebratory jig! 🍕🍝🍦
Ballet Magic: The Teatro Alla Scala
My week in Milan started with the highlight of the trip: an evening at the majestic Teatro alla Scala! This historic theatre is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, with a reputation for excellence and glamour. As I approached the venue, my heart thumped with anticipation and excitement. It's as if you're stepping into an opulent ballroom straight out of a grand ballet. ✨
My ticket to see "Giselle" was nestled safely in my little velvet purse – a gift from a generous ballerina friend, a gift I've been coveting since I saw her dancing in it in a previous production. It's been on my must-see list since I first began researching my Italian itinerary. I’m completely in love with the haunting romance and breathtaking choreography of this classic ballet, a story that captures both the fragility and strength of the human spirit.
Walking through the grand halls, surrounded by fellow ballet enthusiasts, I was transported back in time. This iconic opera house has hosted some of the world's greatest performers for centuries, from legendary dancers like Anna Pavlova to celebrated singers like Luciano Pavarotti. Just being in this space, bathed in the golden glow of chandeliers, was an experience I'll treasure forever.
During the performance, my senses were ablaze with a kaleidoscope of colours, intricate movements, and passionate melodies. It was sheer, utter magic, a testament to the boundless power of art and beauty. Seeing "Giselle" performed with such virtuosity left me utterly spellbound. 💫
After the performance, I caught up with my ballet friend, and we were both enthralled by the “Swan Lake” that's running concurrently on stage at the Teatro alla Scala. With this magnificent theatre, it truly is ballet lovers paradise!
Fashion, Fun, and Pink Tutu Fever!
Of course, no trip to Milan would be complete without indulging in a little retail therapy. As soon as I landed, my trusty pink tutu suitcase was rolled into my hotel room, ready to house the incredible fashions and accessories I would find during my stay. 👠👜
Let’s face it, shopping is like a ballet in itself. 🩰 It’s a dance of colour, texture, and design! Each shop is a new stage to be explored, with each garment or accessory representing a unique character to be admired. From exquisite silk scarves to timeless leather goods, the Milanese shops offer a captivating array of treasures.
On the first day, I made a beeline for the Corso Buenos Aires district. This trendy area is filled with high-street brands and charming boutiques. In no time, I discovered the perfect pair of blush pink ballet flats that matched my new ruffled skirt perfectly! 😍
Another shopping hotspot was the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It is simply dazzling. This glass-covered arcade is a symphony of arches and stained glass. The Galleria was practically vibrating with luxury and stylish shoppers, all searching for the perfect fashion piece. And for me? It meant hunting down the ultimate pink ballet shoes! And let me tell you, the choices were mind-blowing! 🤯 From classic pink satin to embellished pumps, it was an absolute paradise for a ballerina who appreciates a fine pair of pink ballet slippers! I’ve always been drawn to Italian elegance, and this gorgeous Galleria simply radiated a sense of chic.
Pink Tutu Fun: Dancing my way through Milan
One of the most fantastic experiences in Milan is experiencing the vibrant ballet scene! There are incredible shows and performances scattered across the city, so you are always within a tutu's toss of the next magical event!
Milan truly embraces the art of ballet, whether you're talking about grand opera performances or intimate street shows. In my spare time between shopping, dining, and of course, ballet class, I’m always looking out for an opportunity to enjoy this mesmerizing art form.
Ballet Under the Stars
It's been almost a week since I arrived in Milan, and every single day feels like a pink tutu dream. Tonight is the night! It’s time to grace the stage of the Teatro Nuovo for my "Twinkle and Spin" performance! 🤩
The Teatro Nuovo is just steps away from the Piazza della Scala – where you'll find one of my absolute favorite sculptures. (Don't judge, I just adore a statue!). This theatre feels like a grand Italian mansion: elegant chandeliers and red plush velvet chairs. It’s so charming. It is going to be an evening to remember!
After a week of inspiring and joyful adventures in Milan, it’s almost time to head home back to Derbyshire. But with this Italian city swirling through my head, I’m confident that every step in my everyday life will carry that Milanese flair with me.
Pink Tutu Thoughts: From Milan with Love
Milan has stolen my heart! The city’s beautiful architecture, stunning art, delicious cuisine, and fabulous shopping leave me mesmerized, and it’s the most perfect location to combine my passions: ballet and fashion. 💖
It is always such a treat to immerse myself in this magnificent city. The energy and vibrancy, and the amazing fashion! Milan truly makes me want to whirl, dance and jump for joy! 🤩
And my heart? It's filled to the brim with dreams of graceful performances, dazzling tutus, and new adventures waiting to be embraced. So here's to more Pink Tutu magic – wherever the road may lead!
Ciao, and keep twirling!
Emma
P.S. What's your favourite city to travel to, and what's the most wonderful experience you've had there? Let me know in the comments below!
This blog post was lovingly written by Emma for Pink-Tutu.com and posted on Monday, March 2, 2022.
