Ciao bella! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed, fashion-loving, Derbyshire-born gal Emma, reporting live from the fabulous, fashion-forward city of Milan, Italy! This week marks a special occasion – Valentine's Day, and what better place to celebrate the romance of love and the art of the dance than in the heart of Italy?
Firstly, let's talk tutus! It wouldn't be a #PinkTutuMilan post without a pink tutu update! My new tutu for this trip is a glorious, shimmering number – a blush pink with intricate sequin detail, reminiscent of a Venetian Carnival mask. The soft tulle flutters delightfully as I flit through the bustling streets, making sure every passer-by gets a little taste of that Pink Tutu Magic!
My Valentine's Day in Milan
Of course, no trip to Milan would be complete without a visit to the Teatro alla Scala, a theatre steeped in history and artistry. Tonight, it was a Romeo and Juliet performance, and oh my, what a delight! The dancers were incredible – the graceful movements, the powerful emotions, it was truly captivating! I'm a hopeless romantic at heart, so the tragedy of the story tugged at my heartstrings, leaving me with a beautiful mix of tears and joy. It's moments like these that remind me why ballet is so much more than just dance; it's an emotional journey that transcends language.
A Touch of Pink for Valentine's Day
But Valentine's Day wasn't just about ballet. This charming city is oozing with romance – lovers are holding hands, couples are sharing kisses, and every shop window is overflowing with heart-shaped treats and flowers. To add to the festive spirit, I've been experimenting with a pop of pink in my outfits. A splash of blush on the cheeks, a vibrant pink floral hair clip, or even a tiny pink feather on a scarf – these little details can transform a simple outfit into a Valentine's Day dream!
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Milan
Milan isn't all about fashion houses and luxury boutiques. While I'm always drawn to the bright lights and stylish streets, I also love discovering hidden corners and charming cafes. Today, I stumbled upon a quaint bookstore called "La Libreria dei Sogni" – "The Bookstore of Dreams" in English. Nestled in a cobbled alleyway, this tiny store felt like a magical escape, full of worn leather-bound books and whispered secrets. A perfect spot for a romantic escape with a good book and a cup of strong coffee!
Street Style and Fashion Inspiration
Speaking of style, Milan's street style is one of the most captivating things about this city. It's an exciting mix of Italian flair, trendsetting designers, and a dash of Parisian chic. You can see fashion bloggers, influencers, and fashion icons alike, making every street corner their catwalk. It's so inspiring to witness firsthand the different ways people express themselves through fashion. I love to browse through boutiques and window shop for hours on end, gathering ideas and inspiration for my own style.
Dinner at a Michelin Starred Restaurant
For my Valentine's Day dinner, I indulged in a Michelin starred experience. I found a charming Italian trattoria hidden away on a backstreet. They're famous for their hand-made pasta and rich, slow-cooked ragu. Each dish was presented like a work of art, and the aromas were intoxicating. I was completely charmed by the relaxed atmosphere and the authentic flavours of Italian cuisine.
Milan is a Ballet Lover's Paradise
And of course, the ballet continues to enchant me! I attended a masterclass at the Scuola di Ballo Teatro alla Scala, a renowned dance school with an international reputation. It was fascinating to see aspiring dancers from all over the world, dedicating themselves to this art form. The dedication, passion, and sheer joy radiating from them was infectious. It reminded me of the excitement I felt when I was starting out as a young dancer.
The Charm of Public Transportation
One of the best things about Milan is its efficient and reliable public transport system. I love hopping on the trams and metro, catching glimpses of the city and meeting interesting people along the way. Milan is a walking city too, perfect for those lazy strolls along tree-lined avenues and discovering hidden treasures tucked away in courtyards.
Funding my Pink Tutu Adventures
You might be wondering how I manage to travel the world in a pink tutu and attend all these ballet shows? It's simple! I fund my travels with my ballet performances! From time to time, I put on shows – a little bit of magic and dance, a pinch of pink, and a whole lot of fun – and these performances are the secret to funding my love affair with travel.
Let's spread some Pink Tutu Love
This Valentine's Day, I want to remind everyone that love and beauty are all around us. Let's spread some pink tutu magic! Whether it's sharing a smile with a stranger, treating yourself to a special treat, or simply appreciating the beauty of life around us – every day is an opportunity to celebrate.
Stay tuned for next week's #PinkTutuMilan blog post! Until then, I'm off to explore the cobbled streets of Milan and spread a little pink joy wherever I go!
Ciao Bella!
Emma xx
