Buongiorno, darling! Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad, travel-loving ballerina, beaming at you from the heart of Milan! It's Wednesday, 19th July, and the sun is shining (although, you wouldn't believe it's mid-summer with how much gelato I've already devoured!). I can't wait to share all the Milanese magic I've experienced this week. Get comfy, grab a latte (or maybe even a Bellini, because it's a celebratory kind of day!), and join me on my adventures. 🥂
Now, as many of you know, I adore ballet and all things theatre, and Milan is just buzzing with them! Yesterday, I watched a truly breathtaking performance at the Teatro alla Scala. The La Scala Opera House, built in 1778, has such a rich history, and being there surrounded by the golden balconies, velvet seating, and chandeliers was a complete fairy-tale! I even spotted a famous ballerina (but don’t worry, no names!) amongst the audience! I was transfixed by the story and the passion the dancers brought to each movement. It truly ignited my own desire to dance, and I rushed off to my usual ballet class immediately after the curtain call.
Speaking of ballet class, oh my word, the studios here are even more incredible! They're spacious, beautifully designed with wooden floors that creak just so, and bathed in that warm golden light you can't get anywhere else. And the other dancers… well, let's just say they're a dream! Their strength, grace, and expressiveness is astounding. It's almost like every single person here is living, breathing, and dancing the role of their dreams. This definitely motivates me to work harder, polish my pirouettes, and embrace my inner swan queen! 🦢
Speaking of my inner swan queen… It just wouldn't be a Milan visit without a stop at some of the most beautiful fashion boutiques! 🛍️ Imagine this: cobblestone streets lined with majestic buildings, window displays overflowing with vibrant colours and exquisite fabrics, and the smell of leather and perfume hanging in the air. Yes, that's Milan in a nutshell.
This week I ventured into the heart of fashion: Via Montenapoleone! I couldn't resist stepping into Gucci's beautiful flagship store – its minimalist exterior belies the opulent interior. Walking through those gleaming glass doors, I felt like stepping into a magazine. The clothes were truly works of art, and the assistants treated me like a queen (even when I was just trying on some fabulous fuchsia trousers - the colour is so my style, don't you agree? ).
Now, even though my travels are filled with glamorous ballet performances and fabulous fashion finds, the best part is always experiencing the city's pulse. Milan's tram system is a whirlwind of local life, with friendly faces chattering away in Italian, kids waving from their mothers' laps, and a scent of freshly baked bread floating from the nearby bakeries. I absolutely love taking the tram through the city. It feels like travelling back in time while embracing the energy of modern life – a real symphony of historical charm and vibrant energy!
My journey on the tram took me to one of my favourite spots in Milan - Piazza Duomo. I watched pigeons flutter around the iconic cathedral, watched couples stroll hand in hand, and savored the warmth of the midday sun. The energy of this square is almost tangible – the feeling of laughter, life, and connection is palpable.
I did, of course, enjoy a cup of coffee (or five) whilst enjoying the lively atmosphere of this bustling square. But it wouldn’t be a blog post from Milan without mentioning food. Oh, the food! The freshly made pasta, the perfectly baked pizza, the delicate focaccia, and the gelato (I've lost count of how many scoops I've consumed, and I’m not even ashamed to admit it!). Each bite is a delicious adventure for my taste buds!
For the evenings, the vibrant streets come alive with a mix of local bars filled with lively music and laughter, chic cocktail bars brimming with fashionable crowds, and, of course, grand opera houses with stories of love and tragedy unfolding under the watchful gaze of golden chandeliers. Speaking of the arts, last night I saw a wonderful street performance of modern ballet outside the Duomo! A group of young, passionate dancers told stories through their movements, bringing tears to my eyes with their expressiveness and raw energy. It was an unexpected and truly magical experience.
Speaking of magic, what truly makes this city special is the people. I love the way they embrace life with a zestful energy, a joie de vivre that’s simply infectious. Milan is a city where fashion blends seamlessly with culture, where elegance meets energy, and where tradition collides beautifully with modern vibrancy. It truly is a feast for all senses!
Don’t worry, my lovely tutu-wearing friends, I wouldn’t leave you without some serious sartorial inspiration. You see, in Milan, even the most ordinary street corner becomes a runway! This week, I’ve seen ladies wearing a plethora of colours, patterns, and styles, and their confidence and chicness truly shine through. It’s truly inspiring, making me want to embrace colour and texture more boldly in my own style!
So, dear readers, until next week, stay sparkly, stay pink, and most importantly, stay true to your dreams, whatever they may be! And remember, life’s a performance - go out there and dance!
Sending you lots of love, sparkles and twirls!
Emma 💕
P.S. Remember, you can follow my Milan adventure every Wednesday on my blog, www.pink-tutu.com! Let's continue to embrace the pinkness and the ballet-fueled magic together! ✨
P.P.S If you’re feeling adventurous and have your own pink tutu at the ready, perhaps it's time to join me on a spontaneous trip to Milan? Who knows, you might even see me dancing through the streets… 😉
