Buongiorno from sunny Milan! This is your Pink Tutu girl Emma, bringing you all the twirling and tantalizing delights from the fashion capital of Italy!
As you know, every Wednesday is my weekly pilgrimage to this vibrant metropolis. And oh, the excitement for this particular Wednesday! A delicious whirlwind of fashion, dance, and delectable Italian delights! Let's dive right in…
A Morning Train Journey & Tram Twirls
I woke up this morning, with a sprinkle of sunshine and a gentle tickle of anticipation, for the journey to Milan. It’s something I absolutely adore, the sense of adventure and anticipation that bubbles up as I take a train out of Derbyshire and head towards my little slice of Italy.
I do love a train journey – you get such a beautiful mix of countryside views, bustling stations, and the constant hum of the rails beneath your feet. The soft rocking of the train just seems to lull me into a peaceful and reflective state.
Now, you’re probably wondering about my outfit, right? For a day like this, I chose a beautiful, breezy white blouse, adorned with delicate, whimsical embroidery. Of course, it couldn’t be complete without my favourite tulle skirt – this one was a shimmering rose pink, fluttering and swishing around my legs as I sashayed onto the train. My feet, however, were tucked neatly into comfy black flats. The long journey demanded some practical comfort!
As we zoomed into Milan, I couldn't help but catch the dazzling glimpse of the city’s glittering skyline reflected in the windows of the train. I'd almost forgotten what a joy it is to get out into a vibrant, bustling, historic city after a peaceful country weekend.
And speaking of vibrant, what better way to complete the journey than with a ride on Milan’s famed trams? The elegant, retro-style trams have an undeniable charm about them. They weave through the city like an elegant ribbon of yellow and green, carrying people from all walks of life.
Now, I can’t say no to a little twirl opportunity, and the spacious, inviting interiors of the tram are a perfect platform for my impromptu dance moves! Let’s just say my little twirling session was met with smiles and appreciative glances. There’s something magical about seeing people light up with joy – just by simply moving your body in a joyous and celebratory way.
Shopping Spree for Ballet Essentials!
No trip to Milan is complete without a shopping spree, right? This time, my heart was set on a quest for the most exquisite ballet essentials – you see, every true ballerina needs her favourite tools for graceful expression!
The streets were alive with sunshine and chatter – there was so much energy and excitement bubbling in the air! It felt as if Milan was saying, "Welcome, Emma! Explore, embrace, and twirl your way through the city’s magic!”
My first stop was a beautiful little boutique called “Sposa Stile.” I adore its charming vintage vibe, with beautiful clothing from days gone by, and racks upon racks of delicate laces and silky ribbons, all of which are just begging to be twirled around. My fingers couldn’t help but reach for a stunning coral-hued tulle fabric, which I couldn’t help but snag for my latest tutu project! I love discovering vintage treasures, each piece feels unique, carrying a whisper of a past story!
Next, it was on to a quaint little bookshop, hidden down a narrow cobbled street. What a treasure trove it was – overflowing with captivating ballet books, stories about legendary ballerinas, and even biographies of famous dance studios! I found a beautiful old volume about the history of ballet in Milan – a perfect souvenir to bring back home, alongside a lovely leather-bound edition of the Swan Lake story!
Afternoon at Teatro alla Scala: Ballet Extravaganza!
After lunch at a charming trattoria, which featured an array of exquisite pasta and delightful fresh salads – topped off with a little limoncello gelato (what can I say, a girl’s gotta have a little bit of sweetness), it was time for the main event of the day - Teatro alla Scala, one of the most renowned opera houses in the world.
It is the heart of Milan’s artistic world, steeped in history and overflowing with a unique aura of performance and grandeur. Stepping inside was a surreal experience – it felt like a portal to another world. The beautiful chandeliers hanging high above and the majestic velvet curtains surrounding the stage just took my breath away. It felt like stepping onto the stage of a real-life ballet performance, a dream brought to life!
And the performance, oh the performance! It was an exquisitely choreographed production of “The Nutcracker.” The sheer technical brilliance of the dancers, the intricate costumes, the captivating story woven through each movement… I was captivated! It was a joy to witness such grace, passion, and skill displayed so eloquently!
The final curtain brought thunderous applause from the audience, and it wasn't long before everyone was excitedly discussing the dazzling performances. You could feel the electric energy buzzing through the air, the culmination of all that had taken place on that glorious stage. It's that unique feeling, of being completely immersed in an art form that speaks to the soul – it just fills your heart with an unparalleled joy!
A Little Twist of Fashion
Milan is a city where fashion becomes art, where the latest trends walk hand in hand with classic elegance. And, my inner fashionista was thrilled to immerse herself in the beauty of this artistic melting pot. I spotted a shop full of delicate pink tulle fabrics – of course, I had to dive in and have a good look. It was like entering a paradise of feminine chicness, the delicate swirls of tulle seemed to be dancing just for me! I purchased a few meters for a little bit of creative fun later in the evening! And I couldn’t leave Milan without another new pair of shoes!
You’ve all seen my obsession with pink ballet flats, but, oh my, the selection at the little shoe boutique on Via Montenapoleone just mesmerised me! They were a delightful symphony of colour – from soft rose hues to bubblegum pinks, with sparkling accents and adorable bows! I walked away with a little masterpiece – a pair of shimmery ballet flats in a gorgeous, slightly faded pink tone.
I know what you’re thinking – oh, Emma, where do you keep all those shoes? Don't worry, my friends. I have a secret stash of lovely shoes – they’re like hidden jewels tucked away safely in a secret wardrobe, waiting for their moment to shine!
The Pink Tutu Dream Continues!
Milan is the ultimate city of dreams and possibilities. Walking through its historic streets and admiring its iconic buildings, you can’t help but feel a wave of inspiration wash over you! It’s a place where people are brimming with creative energy, where anything is possible! And it was just the perfect place to solidify my ongoing quest, to encourage everyone to embrace the beautiful, whimsical world of ballet.
One of my greatest dreams is to see the world in pink tutus. Not just ballet dancers – but everyone, from the youngest ballerina hopeful to the oldest grandma, all celebrating life, movement, and beauty, twirling to their own unique melody!
And speaking of twirling, after a scrumptious pasta dinner in a hidden gem trattoria off the beaten path (yes, my friends, even a ballerina can have her moments of carb cravings! Especially after an afternoon of ballet!) It was back to the hotel – time for a little pampering, and a delightful bath. The warm water, coupled with the glow of the evening sun streaming through the window, provided a soothing and peaceful way to wind down from a jam-packed day.
I took out my new fabric purchases – oh, the creative ideas that were starting to blossom in my head! It was time to embrace my creative side and begin crafting something beautiful – something that would bring joy, and inspire the world.
Of course, the night couldn’t end without a final, celebratory twirl, my beautiful new ballet shoes giving my feet a bit of a waltz. That moment, right there, in that room, is what makes my journey so wonderful!
Tomorrow morning, it’s back on the train, my suitcase packed with memories, new fashion treasures, and a heart overflowing with the magical wonders of Milan.
But one thing’s for certain – I'll be back for more inspiration and for another pink tutu-filled adventure very soon! Until then, my dearest friends, remember to embrace your inner ballerina, and to always twirl with confidence and grace! See you all next Wednesday, and in the meantime, stay beautiful and embrace the joy of dance!
