Buongiorno, darling readers! 🩰 It’s your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing blogger, Emma, checking in from the heart of Milan. As you all know, December is my absolute favourite month, especially here in Italy, where the Christmas magic seems to be amped up by tenfold! The streets are adorned with twinkling lights, the shops are brimming with festive cheer, and the air is filled with the scent of delicious panettone. It’s truly enchanting!
Today, I woke up to the sound of snow falling softly outside my little hotel window. Honestly, it feels like something straight out of a Christmas card. And, what’s a better way to start the day than with a little hot chocolate (with marshmallows, of course!) and a fluffy, warm croissant? After all, this girl needs her fuel for a day packed with fashion, food, and, you guessed it - ballet!
Fashion First: A Day at the Mercato
As soon as I had finished breakfast, I donned my favourite pink cashmere coat and headed for the Duomo. It is just simply beautiful! It's adorned with festive lights which twinkled so brightly they almost made my eyes sparkle! I knew just the place to go: the Mercato del Carmine, a hidden gem for vintage treasures and all things stylish. There, I picked up some exquisite jewellery, a gorgeous lace shawl that would look perfectly fabulous on a Christmas night out (especially paired with my go-to pink tutu!), and some beautiful fabric for my next DIY tutu project. I’m always searching for ways to create a little something special. And as always, I'm on the lookout for fabulous pink fabrics to add to my stash!
Ballet Time: A Whirlwind of Performances
My afternoon was a ballet lovers’ dream! Milan boasts some of the most renowned dance companies in Europe, so there are endless opportunities to catch beautiful shows. This afternoon, I watched "The Nutcracker" by Teatro alla Scala. The performances were spectacular; each dancer embodied the magic of the story through the graceful movements and powerful storytelling of their artistry. There’s something magical about watching ballerinas bring those enchanting Christmas characters to life! It truly was a spectacle, filled with grandeur, twinkling lights, and heartwarming emotion. I swear, I even felt a little tear well up during the snow scene – how can you not be touched by such beauty?!
The most striking thing about this performance was the costumes – imagine my excitement when I spotted an extravagant, beautiful pink tutu that twirled like a cloud of spun sugar. It looked incredible against the backdrop of a snowy set. The beauty of ballet, in my opinion, is that the movements and costumes can tell stories of their own - that's how truly enchanting it is.
Food and Festivities
After a performance so divine, my stomach was grumbling, so it was straight to one of my favourite local cafes in Milan – "Dolcezza". The name says it all - oh so sweet! This tiny gem offers the most incredible, creamy gelato (I had the flavour ‘Panettone’ - simply delicious!), along with an array of decadent desserts. They really are a hidden gem, offering everything you need for the perfect sweet tooth-satisfying afternoon. I could almost have spent the whole evening curled up there, indulging in one creamy treat after another!
Then, it was time for dinner. After much deliberation, I opted for "La Sosta di Gusto," an intimate restaurant boasting the most authentic Italian cuisine - it felt like being tucked away in a charming little home! I devoured a plate of spaghetti carbonara (you know how I love my carbs!), followed by a light yet delicate panettone (my absolute favourite!). There's nothing quite like enjoying a traditional meal in Italy – the flavours and aromas just bring me to another level of joy.
Nighttime Adventures and Trams
Milan is a magical city by night, especially in December. The streets are lit with festive decorations and filled with cheerful crowds enjoying the Christmas cheer. The air is thick with the sounds of laughter, music, and the tinkling of bell ornaments – the perfect soundtrack to this delightful time of year! I decided to take the famous Milan trams - a delightful and very glamorous form of transport (they really are the most beautiful in the world!). This evening, I had a truly charming conversation with two lovely Italian gentlemen on the tram. I swear, everyone speaks beautiful Italian here, and I just get drawn in by the beautiful cadence. I mean, it’s hard to resist learning a little bit of the language in a city as romantic as Milan.
Of course, my adventures did not end there. It’s never a bad night in Milan to grab a glass of Italian wine, enjoy a delightful aperitivo, and take in the cityscape. So, off I went to “L’aperitivo" at the charmingly intimate bar. With its charmingly decorated interiors, I lost myself in conversation with a fellow ballerina, who was studying ballet at the renowned Teatro alla Scala. I simply love to connect with fellow ballet enthusiasts and to discuss all things tutu - our favourite pink colour of course! The entire atmosphere in the bar felt so convivial – perfect for exchanging stories and experiences.
It was definitely the perfect end to my festive, whirlwind day here in Milan! As you can see, a trip to Milan in December is a truly magical experience! I can't help but feel inspired by this city, with its stunning architecture, captivating culture, and abundance of beauty and wonder!
Well, darling readers, I have to sign off now - it's almost time to enjoy the Christmas delights of Milan! I hope you have all been embracing the spirit of the season – whether it be twinkling lights, warm embraces, or maybe even some time spent twirling around in your favourite pink tutu (what else!). 🩰
Until next time! Lots of love and sparkle, Emma x
P.S. If you are still looking for some festive inspiration - maybe something to spice up your festive wardrobe, head over to www.pink-tutu.com to browse my new pink tutu designs, perfect for adding a splash of festive colour to any occasion. I'll be adding some new designs to my online store in time for Christmas – keep your eyes peeled!
