Hello my lovely pink tutu wearers!
It’s Monday, 23rd December 1996, and I'm writing to you straight from the heart of New York City, where the snow is falling like a silent ballet! I have had a simply splendid week filled with twirling, shopping, and witnessing some absolutely breathtaking ballet performances.
This trip is all about Christmas magic, and New York doesn't disappoint. Even though the streets are brimming with people rushing around like busy squirrels, everyone has a twinkle in their eye and a smile on their face.
You might be wondering how a little Derbyshire lass like me found herself in this bustling metropolis? Well, I landed myself a lovely little gig dancing with the New York City Ballet - what an experience! Of course, I’m also doing what I do best: discovering the city's fashion scene and embracing everything that makes New York the city that never sleeps.
But before I tell you about all the amazing things I've seen and done this week, let's talk about the tutus!
A Tutus Wonderland:Oh, my sweet dears, New York is a haven for the tutu enthusiast! Just wandering the streets is like stepping onto a stage! Imagine, swirling tulle, glittering fabrics, and oh so many pink accents!
I discovered this absolute treasure trove of a shop, filled with the most amazing vintage dancewear. Think silks, satins, and velvets in colours you wouldn't even dream of - they’ve even got some tutus fit for a queen! I indulged in a new pink number myself, naturally. It’s a delicate baby pink, trimmed with silver sequins, just begging for a spin!
Of course, I couldn't possibly leave New York without grabbing a souvenir to remember this trip, and what better way than to bring home some New York themed ballet accessories? You won’t believe it, but there’s a little shop in Greenwich Village with all sorts of delightful finds, including these wonderful hair bows with the Statue of Liberty perched on top - they are simply divine!
And I must say, New York's own "Tutus for Everyone" movement seems to be flourishing! On Saturday, I actually spotted a couple of fellow tutu wearers, one with a vibrant green, the other with a silver one! I gave them the warmest, pinkest smile, and they actually stopped to have a little chat! I’m telling you, we're spreading the pink tutu gospel everywhere we go!
A Twirling Journey Through the City:Talking of spreading cheer, there's nothing quite like jumping onto the subway dressed in a fabulous tutu. There’s this brilliant station on the 7th Avenue line, filled with vibrant mosaics that look like they've stepped straight out of a Broadway show. It’s such a spectacle! It just adds to the whole magical feeling of New York.
But for all its magnificence, the subway can be a bit of a maze. So many stations, so many different lines! Luckily, there's always a kind soul willing to help you find your way. You just need to wear the right smile and twinkle your tutu a bit, and you’ll be just fine!
This past weekend, I found myself in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, wandering around the beautiful department stores like Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue. It was an absolute symphony of fashion, a veritable ballet of style and sophistication! The display windows were breathtaking. I swear I could’ve spent hours just staring!
Of course, I indulged in some shopping too, as one is apt to do in such dazzling surroundings. A few delicate scarves, a glittery bag, and a stunning pink lipstick, just to top off the whole fabulous look!
Speaking of fabulous looks, let me tell you about...
The Nutcracker in New York!The ultimate ballet event on everyone's Christmas list, the New York City Ballet’s rendition of The Nutcracker is a showstopping, unforgettable experience! The whole experience felt absolutely magical.
Imagine an immense Christmas tree sparkling like a million stars, a ballerina twirling in her tulle skirt like an angel of grace, and a magical land populated by enchanting creatures and toy soldiers - and then there’s Clara and her Nutcracker! I felt like I was part of a fairytale, with every graceful move and dazzling performance filling me with wonder.
And just wait until you see the costumes! I nearly fainted! From the Sugar Plum Fairy’s magnificent tutu and the shimmering gold attire of the Nutcracker to the adorable pink and blue outfits of the children in the snow scene, the stage felt like a symphony of colours and elegance. I must confess, I may have gasped out loud at one point – forgive me!
And did you know that the New York City Ballet has this tradition of throwing sweets into the audience during a certain part of the performance? A touch of pure, innocent magic! I caught a lovely sugar plum myself. And guess what, it was pink! A lovely, unexpected twist!
Speaking of sweets and Christmas, this festive city has an endless array of treats to choose from! My favourite is still a hot chocolate from a little coffee shop tucked away on a quiet street. With the snowflakes swirling around and the soft jazz playing, it was simply blissful. And don't even get me started on the delicious cinnamon cookies! I even tried my first ever Christmas bagel! Can you believe it? I nearly forgot, New York also has its own version of gingerbread lattes. You know what, I'll give it a try tomorrow. Maybe I’ll even grab a red velvet cupcake for a truly Christmas-themed feast.
Of course, after a fabulous Christmas Eve, there's nothing like a leisurely walk through the snow-covered streets, watching the city twinkling with its festive glow. It’s so inspiring, and so beautiful!
And so my lovelies, that’s it for this week. I've had the most magnificent Christmas experience so far in New York, and there’s more where that came from! Be sure to come back next week for more magical twirls through the Big Apple.
Until then, stay warm, keep your tutu dreams high, and keep on twirling!
Lots of love and glitter,
Emma xoxo
PS: You can find more of my adventures on www.pink-tutu.com
