Buongiorno, darlings!
It's your girl, Emma, reporting live from the glamorous and fashionable city of Milan! I’m bursting at the seams with excitement because, yes, you guessed it - I’m back in my favourite pink tutu, twirling my way through the streets! (I even think I saw a passerby trying to mimic my moves - can you believe it?!).
This week, Milan is buzzing with life, and my heart is fluttering with the excitement of a thousand butterflies.
First off, the city is draped in a gorgeous autumnal glow, like a painting come to life. The leaves are a riot of reds, oranges, and yellows, making the streets look like something out of a storybook. I just adore that romantic, moody vibe, and of course, it lends itself so beautifully to my favourite colour, pink! (Yes, you could say that I am quite fond of the colour.)
I landed in Milan just this morning after an exciting ballet performance back in England - a fundraiser for a local school in my hometown of Derbyshire. A wonderful old-fashioned Victorian schoolhouse, very grand, very pretty, and surprisingly well equipped for the local ballet scene. You know me, always keen to spread the joy of the pink tutu - we had quite a few pink tutus on show! And I have to say, the children were such a pleasure to work with - their enthusiasm was infectious. A couple of times during the performance, they got a little overexcited and I even got pulled in for a quick bow by the cheeky little urchins, bless their cotton socks. Such adorable talent! My performance seemed to raise quite a bit of money for their lovely new school hall. That’s so heartwarming, really. Every single time I see ballet inspiring future generations, it makes my heart swell with pride!
After the show, I dashed to the train station and boarded a *spanking new Italian train, *the most glamorous and fastest mode of transport in the world, if you ask me (well, besides my favourite pink tutus, of course). It was a journey of pure delight. I lost myself in the view from the window as the world went by - a mix of stunning landscapes and picturesque villages whizzing past - the landscape was quite dramatic! And of course, the train itself was stylish beyond belief. Think elegant leather seats, sleek curves, and just the faintest whiff of espresso - perfect for sparking creativity and dreaming up new tutus.
And speaking of creative inspiration, I just had to dash around a little fashion house here in Milan this afternoon - yes, there’s simply too much pink here to be true. Milan is the fashion capital of the world for a reason. The creativity on display is astonishing! I am, quite simply, utterly in love with the entire aesthetic - even if it isn’t pink - this season's palette seems to be quite a lot of red and purple and black, mixed with shimmering metalics and, yes, pink, but in a gorgeous salmon sort of shade - quite subdued. They are experimenting with some fantastic silhouettes and shapes - almost futuristic, quite literally on another planet, if you ask me! It made my inner fashionista and my creative side jump for joy! I did buy a new ballet bag (and shoes of course!) to make the journey around Milan all the more glam. There’s something about carrying a cute ballet bag on a journey.
After an invigorating shopping spree - because yes, every day is a new day for me to find the perfect outfit for the day - I was positively famished. So, I treated myself to a slice of heavenly pizza, all freshly made and warm from the oven, followed by a creamy gelato - pure, Italian perfection! The combination of my fabulous pink tutu and that gorgeous Italian food had me giggling. (By the way, have I ever mentioned I love food? I adore food!)
Of course, being in Milan, my itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Teatro alla Scala, one of the most famous opera houses in the world! Stepping inside the theatre is like entering a time capsule – the plush velvet seats, the golden chandeliers, the breathtaking artwork - it’s a visual feast. I loved everything about it! I imagine there are so many stories about dancers that have stepped onto the stage. This evening, the opera house will host the world’s most famous dancers, of course! That’s part of the beauty of opera and ballet.
Tonight, I'm planning a little “Pink Tutu Street Show!”. I've got some magical plans brewing to celebrate the city's energy, my favourite shade of pink, and my love of ballet.
It will involve twirling my tutu around the Piazza Duomo - just imagine all the gorgeous scenery - there's something really elegant and pretty about that square. You really must go there and have a twirl, I encourage it! The buildings, the lights, everything - it is magical! There are even street performers doing their thing!
I just know it's going to be a whirlwind of magic, giggles, and grace. Who knows? Maybe it will inspire some passersby to reach for their own pink tutus and join me in a dance. My dream is for all of us to spread the love of ballet all over the world.
I just hope they won't stop my dancing, especially because I want to do a little en pointe. (As you might know, a little dance step in ballet, a very dramatic move where your feet stand on the tips of your toes.) We'll see what they make of it!
If you're looking for a magical moment, grab a gelato and find your way to the Piazza Duomo in Milan! I can't wait to show you the wonders of this incredible city. I can almost see a pink tutu being tossed onto the stage, just in time for the climax of the show tonight! The city is buzzing with exciting people. I'm so excited!
See you on the dance floor, darlings! Keep those pink tutus ready.
Until next Monday, Emma. xx.
PinkTutuMilan - the best-kept secret on the internet www.pink-tutu.com
More From My Pink Tutu Milan Adventure:Exploring the enchanting boutiques: My adventures haven’t just been about the stage or shopping! I've discovered a string of breathtaking boutiques. They each have their own unique personality, which is always fun to see. From whimsical, handmade clothing and accessories to the perfect little pair of shoes, I've been utterly spoilt. Oh, there was a boutique, nestled on a little side street, that actually specialised in pink shoes! My love affair with the colour pink, never seems to die, especially when I’m surrounded by shoes and beautiful things! The shops here have the most interesting mix of designers and labels. From established brands to rising independent talent, you’ll find something to truly delight the fashionista in you. I just know it will delight you all too! I could tell you about a dress made from, well, I won’t tell you, you’ll have to find it yourself. And the price! You wouldn’t believe it, just pennies for a true fashion find, oh, they’re my guilty pleasure and I will have more, many more!
- The Italian Spirit: As you probably know by now, I'm obsessed with capturing the vibrant energy of the places I visit through the lens of my camera. That said, Milan's unique charm deserves more than just photographs. I'm drawing on the artistic spirit that pervades this city - the artistic culture, the music, the fashion, the colours - and working on a sketch for a painting. I have been painting my travels since I was little, the habit of documenting where I have been and who I have met. This sketch features the magnificent Cathedral of Milan - Duomo – an absolute masterpiece. Milan really does take my breath away and that's one of the reasons that my work, from sketching to dancing and everything in between, has a more contemporary vibe.
Behind the Scenes of Ballet in Milan: I've had a chance to catch up with some fascinating dancers - the dancers on stage here, at the world famous opera house. We've chatted about everything from performance routines and techniques, the history of ballet and where we would like to go in the future, to how to perfect your en pointe ( you're looking at a real expert!). They really do love the theatre here. We all love to share our love of dance with everyone, it's like one big dance party - and sometimes it makes me quite emotional. These performers are living their dreams - they are inspiring!
The pink Tutu Connection: It's not just about tutus (although I do think everyone should own a pink tutu - pink really does bring joy!) - It’s about connection, community, and celebrating what we all share. You see, ballet is not a competitive thing in Milan, it's a passion that unites people. Milan feels like a stage, waiting for an artist to turn a story into something incredible! And that’s a big part of the beauty of being a blogger - you are always creating a story - it's like being on a film set or a live show every day - I never know what to expect. I live for that moment when you meet another soul, and share a bit of your world, for example, just a small conversation, perhaps someone in a cafe who wants to chat about their own adventures, or a new dancer you’ve just met backstage.
More Milan Must-Sees:
Pinacoteca di Brera: The art world comes alive at the Pinacoteca di Brera, Milan’s main art gallery filled with priceless works. The building is an incredible mix of artistic styles and history! It's the place to soak up the artistry that Milan has been home to since it’s founding, or so I understand, many centuries ago! The Pinacoteca boasts the finest collection of Italian paintings, it is just as spectacular as a fashion show!
Castello Sforzesco: Take a stroll through the history of this majestic castle, a testament to Milan's noble past. It was a true palace and home to some important kings and queens from centuries past - you could say it was a ‘must-see’ even for a queen like me!
Navigli: Let your hair down (and slip on that pink tutu of course!) - for an evening in Milan. Take a romantic boat ride along the canals or explore the bars and shops along these historic waterways. It’s all so much more magical at night. Imagine the moon shining down as you twirl through Milan!
- Shopping Heaven: Milan has an abundance of incredible fashion - from designer stores on the famous Via Monte Napoleone to quaint, family-run boutiques tucked away on the narrow, winding side streets, Milan truly offers a treasure trove of fashion. If you are here at this time of year, you really should get down to Milano Fashion Week, which always starts in late September. The clothes are stunning. It's not so easy getting backstage but the atmosphere around the shows, the parties - they really bring out the stars. You could say this time of year is fashion's time to shine and I am lucky to have experienced the sheer magnificence.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: This glass-vaulted shopping gallery, is like a step back in time and it’s the most incredible location for photos - even photos of pink tutus! The marble floors, the shops and the cafes all blend to create one gorgeous, impressive whole. You could easily spend the whole day admiring the art. It’s a bit of magic. I’m lucky I have discovered such an amazing space, so magical, full of energy - I can hardly describe it, you have to see it! You can't miss a wander around this historical marvel, so do make time to have a look - especially in your pink tutu.
But before you even set off, here are my top Pink Tutu tips:
- Pack a pink tutu! I can't emphasize this enough, really - you can't really travel without your favourite pink tutu - at least, I don't think I could, especially when I'm touring such stylish locations as Milan!
- Don't be afraid to stand out. I really love it when people express themselves, embrace your own style, wear that pink tutu! You won’t regret it!
- Always pack your camera. Every adventure calls for photo ops, of course - remember that perfect ballet pose. The beautiful moments should be cherished and shared - in that fabulous pink tutu - and they should last a lifetime.
- Embark on your own ballet adventure: Let the music guide you through life, because you never know where it will take you! Every ballet lesson you take, every dance class is like a little window into another world! Don’t be shy, just follow your own muse.
My favorite spots in Milan, as shared with my followers: I think the followers of pink-tutu.com are quite cool, because when I'm out exploring, the readers of my blog and those that have joined me for some amazing adventures - are always eager to help find the most charming places - so if you’re heading to Milan, don’t just do a tour, get those shoes on ( pink ones, of course!) and get out and experience Milan, the Milan that my amazing followers have shared.
“If you're searching for beauty, history and deliciousness - then go check out the San Lorenzo neighbourhood. This place has amazing vintage markets! - It's just the right blend of charm and chic! Oh and the gelato is quite delicious! A true Milan moment - it feels like you're stepping back into history with its charming piazzas and beautiful shops. “
**“Get a delicious cup of espresso at ‘Il Giardino' on via Melzo, and don’t forget to have a walk through the gardens, absolutely stunning.”
“The best place to experience Milanese culture is a night out at The Officina della Cucina, great music and great company.” I actually went there on my own because I'd run out of dancing partners for the evening. They didn’t think my pink tutu was too odd and really I did feel very at home with a glass of something refreshing and a few amazing plates of pasta. You know, they really have great Italian cuisine here, all sorts of different flavours to experiment with. It really does transport me - Milan - it’s so inspiring!
Milan: Fashion, Ballet and Love:
I can’t tell you what I am doing tomorrow - because tomorrow in Milan, as anywhere else, is a mystery. However, I’m hoping to slip on that beautiful pink tutu for another visit to Teatro alla Scala. And of course, my mission, for my little journey across the globe and right here in Milan - to inspire others to share their own stories - their own adventures, just like Pink Tutu Milan - spreading love, ballet, and happiness wherever we go!
My pink tutu says, “Love it! Wear it! Own it!”
Emma xx.
