Buongiorno, my darlings! It’s Emma here, back with you from the glorious city of Milan. Today's post is extra special because, well, I’m officially a Milano resident! That’s right, my little pink tutu is going to be twirling in this dazzling city for the next couple of months, which means lots of exciting ballet adventures, fabulously stylish discoveries, and of course, enough gelato to make your head spin (literally)! 🍦
This week I'm channeling my inner Milanese – embracing the art, the fashion, and the chic coffee culture. But let me back up and tell you how I got here!
A Derbyshire Lass in the City of FashionAs some of you know, I'm a proud Derbyshire lass, and my love for dance began back in my little village hall, fuelled by my gran’s passion for the stage and endless cups of tea. Growing up, the world of fashion was just as fascinating, with trips to our local vintage shop for hand-me-downs and dreams of the glittery glamour of London catwalks. But Milan? It was a distant dream – a place I’d seen in magazines, on television, and even in ballet shows set in iconic Milanese theatres.
Now, the story of how I ended up here is a bit like a romantic comedy (without the boy next door). I took a leap of faith, started performing more professionally, saved every penny, and before I knew it, I had landed a short contract at the renowned Teatro alla Scala. It was an amazing opportunity to soak up the culture and the ballet world. And guess what? Milan didn’t disappoint. It was a love affair from the first glance at the Duomo.
The Milanese CharmThe city itself is a fairytale, bursting with cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and that undeniable Italian je ne sais quoi. From the moment I stepped off the train (after an incredibly scenic journey through the countryside, I highly recommend the train, especially for the delicious Italian gelato stands at the station!), I knew this was somewhere special.
Milan oozes charm – from the lively open-air markets where you can find everything from handmade jewellery to freshly picked fruit, to the cozy cafes serving up steaming cappuccinos and creamy tiramisu. Even the street lights twinkle with a romantic aura, and the locals have a passion for life that’s truly contagious.
The City of BalletLet’s get to the real reason I’m here: ballet! The ballet scene in Milan is incredible, and the Teatro alla Scala is an institution, the crème de la crème of opera houses. Imagine it: a theatre as grand and majestic as the city itself, boasting over two centuries of history and showcasing performances from the world’s greatest artists.
Today, I'm off to see Giselle – a classic, a masterpiece, and the perfect introduction to the theatre. The excitement is building – from the pre-show anticipation as you enter the hallowed halls, to the moment the curtain rises and the magic truly begins, the ballet experience here is unlike anything I've ever encountered.
Later this week, I’m taking a ballet class in the very same studio where a renowned prima ballerina honed her skills, the place where legendary dancers learned to fly, spin, and capture the world with every gesture. I can already feel my stomach doing cartwheels at the thought of it.
Fashion, Foodie Fun, and a Pinch of PinkBut Milan is not just about the ballet. The fashion! It's legendary! 🛍️ Everywhere I look, there’s an explosion of colours, textures, and design inspiration. Even the shop windows are like works of art. I've already gone shopping and indulged in a gorgeous pink silk scarf with delicate floral patterns. And speaking of pink, my new Milan wardrobe is coming along swimmingly - and yes, of course, there's plenty of pink – a dash of it here, a burst of it there! My new mission is to find the most fabulous pink tutu in the whole of Milan. I suspect I’ll have to delve into some high-end boutiques to find it!
After a long day of sightseeing and ballet-inspired shenanigans, I always love to relax in a cute trattoria and indulge in authentic Milanese cuisine. Let’s just say there's an endless supply of pizza, pasta, and some delicious desserts, all bursting with flavour and bursting my calorie count! (Don't worry, I work it all off at ballet class!) I’m not sure what’s more impressive, the flavour or the presentation – they’re both absolutely breathtaking.
Of course, the most important element of my daily routine (aside from ballet, that is) is enjoying the vibrant Milanese atmosphere. There’s just something so enchanting about this city. From the majestic squares like Piazza del Duomo to the charming narrow lanes of Brera, every corner offers a new surprise and every passerby seems to exude that signature Milanese panache. I love catching the tram with locals, trying my hand at ordering a coffee (I'm getting better with each attempt!), and just soaking up the energy of this bustling city.
My Pink Tutu PromiseSo, my lovely pink tutu followers, let me tell you – Milan is a whirlwind of romance, culture, and breathtaking beauty. It's definitely a place that steals your heart (and maybe your bank account!), but you’ll come away feeling truly inspired. I'm going to be posting regular updates here on Pink-Tutu.com, so stay tuned for my Milan adventures – I have a feeling we’re going to have a whole lot of fun together!
Remember, dear readers, never underestimate the power of a pink tutu. Wear it loud, wear it proud, and wear it with a heart full of joy, just like they do in Milan. Ciao for now! ❤️