Hello, darlings!
It's Monday, December 29th, 1997, and Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu aficionado, ready to bring you another dose of fashion, ballet, and a touch of fairy dust straight from the heart of the Big Apple! 🍎
I'm back in New York City, my favourite city in the world, for the most magical week. I've been performing at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the atmosphere was just electric - the energy of the city, the joy of dance, and the incredible audience – it's what makes performing in this city so unique. I've got to say, dancing in a pink tutu on a New York stage, feeling the applause, the sheer exhilaration is a sensation unlike anything else!
This week has been packed full of fabulous finds and breathtaking ballet. This is the time of year when New York truly shimmers with a festive glow – Christmas decorations are still twinkling and the streets are alive with music, shoppers and laughter. Everywhere I turn there's something to delight, and I can't help but feel a little bit like Cinderella swept off on a magical adventure! 💫
Let's talk about Fashion, darling!
As always, New York's streets are a fashion catwalk. It's inspiring to see how everyone embodies their personal style. Today I saw a chic Parisian woman sporting a perfectly tailored grey coat, a dash of scarlet red in her lipstick, and her classic chic black beret. Right next to her, a bold, colourful bohemian artist, layers upon layers of textured scarves and mismatched accessories, an explosion of colours, and an air of creative freedom.
I think that's what I love about fashion here - it's about expressing yourself, regardless of what others might say. It's not just about following trends, but about embracing what makes you unique. Of course, for me, it always comes down to adding that touch of pink tutu magic! I always ensure my favourite tutu gets to experience the city with me! The Tutu Time Capsule! My special, sequined and very special tutu that I always travel with is a delight for the eyes and always gets everyone smiling.
The Ballet Bliss!
Tonight, my lovelies, I'm going to the ballet. This week I've already seen some of the best dancers in the world at the Alvin Ailey. But, tonight's treat is a special one. "The Nutcracker" at the New York City Ballet. It's a Christmas classic that never gets old. The music, the story, the costumes, it’s a truly magical experience, perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit!
*Here's the secret to having a magical Christmas, you know: * It's about spending time with loved ones, enjoying a little sparkle and enjoying the feeling of joy. For me, ballet does that for me. I hope it inspires you too.
I always have my phone on hand, taking photos and capturing those iconic New York moments.
Speaking of moments!
Speaking of my most wonderful moment, you ask?
* It was the "flash mob". That is when a group of people come together, usually in a public space like a train station, or on the street, and then BAM, they start dancing to music that has suddenly started playing from a portable music device! It's incredible! I had one this morning in the heart of the city, and let me tell you, I danced! A ballerina's instinct! *
I had never seen a flash mob before, so I stood back in awe as a dozen or so people suddenly started moving in perfect sync, a burst of joy and expression in the midst of the bustling city. I'd love to try this out myself one day – imagine, a tutu flash mob? Oh, the fun we could have!
Travel by Metro
It wouldn't be a proper Pink Tutu Blog without a little chat about my favourite mode of transport - the New York subway!
Imagine a network of tunnels spanning miles below the city's busy streets, transporting thousands of people across this sprawling urban landscape. It's a fascinating system! Yes, it's a bit of a whirlwind - sometimes packed and often hot - but there is something thrilling about being underground, hurtling past stations. The constant buzz of the city above creates a fascinating background hum as I observe the colourful blend of faces surrounding me.
Of course, when in New York, one can't help but try the iconic yellow taxi cabs!
Let me take you to one of my favourite places, the iconic Grand Central Terminal!
Every time I arrive in New York, the energy of this grand, ornate station simply takes my breath away! The high vaulted ceilings adorned with magnificent murals, the intricate clock face above the information desk, and the vibrant buzz of the city's energy reverberating throughout the space. It's like a scene from a movie – just wait for that handsome stranger in a tweed suit to appear!
Grand Central is also one of the city’s iconic spots for performances, darling. And you know me – there's no stopping me! There's nothing more fun than finding unexpected art or a performance tucked away in a quiet corner, something to delight and surprise! My most magical moment today was being surprised by a group of talented singers gathered near the main concourse. Their beautiful harmonies resonated through the terminal – for those moments I was simply transported to another world!
Oh, dearie me! That reminds me, I must tell you all about Christmas time! Oh, it’s been simply dazzling here. There’s something about Christmas in New York that feels magical.
My favourite memory this week was being awestruck as I walked along the streets and witnessed the sparkling Christmas decorations, every building, every tree, dressed in the festive finery. It truly was breathtaking – I can't remember the last time I saw so much gleaming sparkle! It is no wonder everyone says that Christmas in New York is special – it’s true!
My Top Spots for a Fashionable Foodie:
I’m a foodie – of course I am! I always find time to sample New York’s fabulous eats.
And what a city for eats it is!
From delicious carbs like croissants and bagels, to that famous New York pizza, and everything in between, I'm spoilt for choice here! My top tips for the ultimate culinary adventures:
- The Cheese Truck : This food truck is an absolute must, their melted cheeses, gooey breads and savoury sauces are perfection for those looking to fill that foodie craving.
- Zabar's : The ultimate New York institution. It is an emporium of treats! You will be mesmerized by the selection of cheeses, spices, pastries, and delicacies – you'll be here for hours.
- A slice from a classic Italian pizzeria: Where else can you get a slice of New York's famous thin crust pizza, hot out of the oven, covered in the gooiest melted mozzarella.
Of course, no trip to New York is complete without a cup of tea! I must try to visit The Tea & Sympathy Tea Room. It's like being transported back to England!
I can already hear you all asking the question: “Where’s the Tutu?!"
My new tutu, for this trip to New York, is fabulous, and I love it dearly. It’s a perfect, pretty shade of *baby pink, with a swathe of shimmering sequined hearts around the skirt. And it's already created quite a stir.*
Today, while I was enjoying a hot chocolate and some fabulous pastries in Central Park with my new tutu (I’ve been telling myself that tutu's do love a warm treat!), a group of children came running over and asked if they could take a picture. They'd never seen anything like it!
They even wanted to know my secret, how do you manage to keep it so pristine! Well, it’s my special tutu preservation secret! I will not divulge the magic formula just yet!
*You’ve heard from me about New York City today. *
It’s such a bustling, dynamic and inspirational place! The lights and energy are electrifying! And then you’ve got those fabulous shows! The dancing – pure delight! The fashion – a visual feast! It’s really got me dreaming about a Pink Tutu Ballet Performance in New York! One can only dream!
That’s me – signing off – till next week.
Emma
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