Well hello there, fellow twirling enthusiasts! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina, Emma, back from the fashion capital of the world – Milan!
This week, I'm buzzing with excitement, having just returned from another whirlwind adventure. And believe me, it was filled with the most stunning ballet performances, enough to satisfy even the pickiest ballerina.
Let's rewind the clock, shall we? Last Tuesday, I packed my trusty pink suitcase (you know the one with the giant pink ribbon), complete with all the essentials: a couple of shimmering tutus (naturally), a stack of ballet flats, and of course, my lucky pink beret – ready for whatever adventures awaited me in Italy.
My journey began in Derbyshire, where the snow was falling in heavy, fluffy flakes. The cold air made the familiar sounds of my local village even more magical – the crunch of my boots on the frosty pavement, the muffled giggles of children playing in the snow, the chiming of the village church bell. It's moments like these, so quiet and calm, that fill me with inspiration.
My train journey to London was an adventure in itself. I loved watching the countryside rush past – fields cloaked in snow, cosy villages dotted with chimneys puffing smoke, and the occasional glimpse of a magnificent castle peeking through the misty landscape. I took a few snaps for Instagram, because even a simple train journey deserves to be captured!
Once in London, I felt that familiar thrum of excitement, that London energy buzzing under my skin. London always holds a special place in my heart; it’s the birthplace of ballet, of Shakespeare, of so much creative brilliance.
Before jetting off to Italy, I made sure to squeeze in a couple of dance classes, a trip to Covent Garden, and some leisurely window shopping at Liberty's. (Can't forget to scout out new inspiration, can we?) After a late supper in Notting Hill, it was time to board the flight to Milan – the promise of fashion, art, and yes, even more ballet!
Landing in Milan was like entering a whole new world – a city bathed in golden sunlight, the air thick with the scent of espresso and fresh pastry. I immediately felt that unmistakable Italian energy: the warmth, the vibrancy, the stylish hustle and bustle.
And speaking of style... Let's talk about the incredible fashion scene here. Forget the stereotypes of skinny jeans and leather jackets; Milan has it all – haute couture, street style, vintage finds, and of course, loads of pink! (Gotta represent, right?) I spent hours wandering through the beautiful boutiques in Via Montenapoleone, admiring the exquisite craftsmanship and breathtaking designs. I even snagged a couple of pieces to add to my ever-growing collection. 😉
But of course, Milan isn't just about fashion – it's also a cultural hub, bursting with art, history, and most importantly – ballet!
On Wednesday, I found myself captivated by a performance of *The Sleeping Beauty at the Teatro alla Scala. The sheer scale of the stage was incredible, the costumes a feast for the eyes, and the dancers simply breathtaking!* The audience erupted in thunderous applause after each act. And me? I just stood there, transfixed, feeling like I'd been transported to another world – a world of magic, grace, and pure beauty.
That same night, after dinner in a charming little trattoria with a delicious spaghetti al pesto, I stumbled upon a small, intimate performance of a contemporary dance piece at a local theatre. I hadn't heard of the troupe before, but it turned out to be a group of passionate, incredibly talented young dancers – each movement expressive, raw, and incredibly moving. It was the perfect end to a day packed with elegance and artistry.
*Thursday morning started with a walk along the picturesque Naviglio Grande canal. * I couldn't resist snapping a couple of pictures of myself, tutu swishing, in front of the canal's old stone bridges – it felt like stepping back in time! The warm, sunny weather allowed me to bask in the Italian charm while sipping a delicious cappuccino – bliss!
*Later that day, I visited the beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – a shopping arcade as stunning as it is bustling. *I did, of course, do a little shopping! You know I can't resist a good bargain on a silk scarf or a statement necklace. 😉
*As evening descended, I was feeling a little tired but ready for more. *I decided to experience Milan in a more traditional way: a leisurely ride on the tram! (After all, travelling like a local is part of the fun.) I sat by the window, watching the cityscape flash by, each building, each shop window, reflecting the pink hues of the setting sun – like a fairytale coming to life.
*Friday was the day for some self-care: a much-needed spa day and a couple of hours in a bookstore filled with ballet-related literature. * You wouldn't believe the amazing ballet biographies I discovered. I think I spent most of the afternoon reading about the extraordinary life of the legendary Margot Fonteyn! She was so elegant and graceful, a true ballerina legend.
I then decided to go on a scavenger hunt for the most stunning Milanese cakes, pastries, and treats! Let's be honest, one cannot travel to Italy without indulging in some serious pastry-tasting!
The weekend arrived with a vibrant explosion of colour! On Saturday, I stumbled upon a street market – an explosion of colours, sounds, and aromas, where locals showcased their unique craftsmanship, handmade goods, and, most importantly – delicious street food! It felt like an outdoor celebration of everything Italy has to offer: creativity, tradition, and an unyielding love of life!
*My Milanese weekend ended with a ballet class. * It felt amazing to be moving my body and stretching my muscles again, especially after all that delicious food! And the best part? It was held in the beautiful open courtyard of a traditional palazzo – the sun warming my skin, the sounds of the city weaving into my practice. There's just something magical about dancing outdoors!
*But, as you know, my time in Milan was limited. *The next day, I bid farewell to this vibrant city and caught a flight back to the UK, a bag full of new inspiration and a heart filled with happy memories.
And guess what? My mission continues. More ballet adventures, more shopping forays, more pink tutu-wearing across Europe and beyond!
But for now, I'm back home in Derbyshire, with the snow still swirling around the quaint cobbled streets. I’m back in my tutu, warming up my body, preparing for the next chapter – more dance, more stories, and more opportunities to bring some sunshine (and a touch of pink) to the world.
See you next week!
*Much love, *
Emma 💖🩰
P.S. Don't forget to check out my website at www.pink-tutu.com for more photos, videos, and travel stories from my adventures. I'll also be posting on my Instagram (you can find me at @pinktutuemma) with more highlights and sneak peeks into my life on the road. And hey, if you’re a ballerina with a passion for pink and adventure, let’s connect!
*Oh, and while I'm here – can you guess what's on the agenda for this coming week? 😉 *
