Oh, darling! It's officially Pride Month and let me tell you, I am absolutely buzzing. Being a ballet dancer, you'd think that sparkly tutus were a daily part of life. But, let's face it, most of the tutus in the dance world are very classical and beige. However, Pride month means pink. And by pink I mean shocking pink, bubblegum pink, candyfloss pink, that fabulous kind of pink you simply can't resist.
Today, Iām ditching the traditional, getting my tutus in full technicolour glory and celebrating Pride, Berlin-style. Let's be honest, Berlin knows how to party. It's an intoxicating mix of underground club vibes, street art, and a genuine sense of liberation. The energy in the air is electric. I'm walking down a sunny FriedrichstraĆe and the sounds of Donna Summer wafting from a cafĆ© window just about sums up the vibe perfectly.
But, itās not all about the party (although it's very, very important!), it's also about showing up and celebrating love, inclusivity and freedom. I'm lucky to be part of a super supportive LGBTQ+ community here in Berlin. Everyone just wants to celebrate - there's this great sense of ālet's just be our amazing selves, without judgementā. It's an amazing feeling to be part of something bigger than yourself.
The past few days have been a whirlwind of rainbow flags, glitter and good times. There's been a sense of optimism in the air that you can't quite put your finger on but you know itās something truly special.
Yesterday, I went to a fantastic event - the āBerlin Pride Festivalā. I know, the name's not very imaginative, but trust me - itās anything but boring. The whole city was filled with the rainbow flag ā hanging on balconies, decorating shopfronts and waved proudly by attendees ā and the air was full of the energy of music, art, and laughter. There was a massive rainbow parade, overflowing with colourful costumes. It was just magnificent! I spent hours simply people-watching.
I got talking to a fantastic trans-activist who spoke to me about the work they were doing to fight for rights and inclusion. The way she explained it made so much sense - we've come a long way in the LGBTQ+ rights movement but we're not finished yet. The activism continues, even with the progress.
She pointed out there are so many incredible queer people doing amazing things around the world. They're advocating for justice, breaking down barriers, and making the world a better place. I was so inspired - it reminded me itās important to stay informed about the issues and stand up for what I believe in.
That being said, let's be real - Pride is also about having fun! I have been embracing the festival vibes and I'm here to spill the tea about how to bring some Pride fun to your life.
First off, if you're looking to step up your Pride game, it's got to be the Tutu - it's simply essential to get a fabulous, feathery, iridescent tutu for Pride celebrations! This month, it's all about bringing your fabulousness. Letās go full glam and embrace the dramatic, colourful and confident - after all, a little bit of confidence can go a long way!
My latest acquisition was a super sparkly pink tutu that has got to be the most dazzling thing Iāve ever owned - it even has rainbows scattered all over!
Don't worry, I'm all for embracing personal style and individual expression - if tutus are not your vibe then it's perfectly ok to ditch the tulle. Let your individuality shine and let your style say āI'm here and I'm proud". I saw one person walking down the street today in a fantastic glitter jacket, while another one wore an elaborate crown - people were truly out there rocking the party look and having a great time!
Hereās my pick for Tutu Tuesday essentials to rock your Pride outfit, because I just have to share:
The Tutu: I've got to talk about my beloved pink tutu. Letās be honest - a fluffy pink tutu screams Pride! I always suggest going over the top for Pride - after all, when will you get a chance to rock something outrageous and fabulous like this again? And if pink isnāt your thing? Go green, go blue, go neon orange!
Sequin everything: If there was ever a time to embrace sequins, itās Pride. Letās be honest - they sparkle! Theyāre fabulous! Youāve got to own a sequin skirt or jacket - trust me - they will instantly take your Pride look to the next level. Plus, what better time to embrace your inner disco queen than on a night out for Pride?
Rainbow accessories: Whether itās rainbow shades, bracelets, or a giant rainbow flag to drape around your shoulders - it's the perfect finishing touch!
Bejeweled: Let's make it dazzling! Pride is about celebrating and you want to sparkle! Go big or go home with sparkly earrings, a necklace or hairpieces - get your glitter on and shine!
And remember, it's not all about what you wear. What really counts is embracing the message of acceptance, inclusivity and love thatās at the heart of Pride.
For me, the most memorable parts of this festival were meeting the other people celebrating Pride ā those fantastic LGBTQ+ groups and the amazing young artists sharing their art and experiences.
I also witnessed the beautiful solidarity between the various groups who came to stand up for LGBTQ+ rights and against hate and intolerance. Everyone Iāve spoken to is determined to fight discrimination and promote acceptance and equality. The strength of the community was palpable.
Iām still overwhelmed by the overall feeling of warmth, acceptance and excitement that pervaded the festival and the whole city. The love and optimism are infectious.
The LGBTQ+ rights movement has made incredible progress and has fought so many battles against inequality. We've achieved great things, but there are still so many challenges that remain. We need to be vigilant, we need to keep raising our voices. We need to keep celebrating!
This weekend, Berlin's going to be a melting pot of fun, diversity and positivity. It's the perfect place to truly embrace the spirit of Pride Month.
*So, remember this Pride Month, go out and celebrate! Make a difference and wear that rainbow proudly. *
And keep an eye out for #tututuesday !
Emma x
*#tutupride #prideberlin #lgbtqplus #lovewins #pridemonth #berlinerpride #tututuesday #pridelove #discofever *
