#PinkTutuBlogNYC Monday 1998-02-16 she danced in New York City

Monday, February 16th, 1998

Darling readers! I simply must tell you about my latest escapade! As you all know, I’ve been dreaming of coming to the Big Apple ever since I could first understand the magical allure of a giant apple perched atop a tower. Well, my dream came true this week, and oh, how I've embraced the city! I've been pirouetting through the streets, flitting through its bustling life, and, of course, indulging in every bit of fashion, ballet, and shopping this glorious metropolis has to offer.

This week’s adventures started the moment I stepped off the plane. I simply couldn’t resist wearing my most vibrant pink tutu, my cherry red cashmere coat (which, as we all know, goes with practically everything!) and a matching red felt beret. A little bit of English charm and elegance amongst the New York bustle.

I was immediately swept away by the vibrant, intoxicating energy that radiates from every corner of this city. The yellow cabs, the honking of the cars, the street performers, the hurried footfall… It's like a whirlwind of human energy, but in the best possible way.

Now, before we delve into my whirlwind week, a quick word on transport. It goes without saying that in the heart of a concrete jungle, the metro is the king of journeys. I love the sensation of rumbling through the city's veins, getting a glimpse of its pulsating life from a slightly removed perspective. I always make a point of selecting a brightly colored line, pink naturally being my top choice, and if I'm lucky, I even find a spot where I can practice a few tendu's between stations! Just imagine the scene - my glorious pink tutu swishing around the metro train - it’s certainly a conversation starter.

But enough of the logistics, let’s get back to my magical trip! My first stop was, naturally, Broadway. I'd been itching to see "Cats" ever since I first saw that famous promotional poster as a wee girl back in Derbyshire. The dancing, the costumes, the theatricality, the story, it's all so over the top and captivating! And, just for a moment, I felt transported to a world of fantasy, where feline elegance and human dreams intertwined. Seeing “Cats” has inspired me - perhaps I'll get myself a tiny black tutu for a spot of dramatic tomfoolery.

Now, let’s move on to the truly important matter - shopping! New York is a haven for those who love to find that unique and utterly perfect garment. This city embraces bold choices and daring style. There are shops on every corner, catering to every imaginable desire. I must tell you about this one store on 5th Avenue. They had a whole floor dedicated to shoes! From sparkly slippers to glittering stilettoes, it was like a scene out of a Cinderella story! I even spotted the most dazzling pair of ballet shoes – sparkly, soft pink, with little silver ribbons. It was love at first sight.

Now, speaking of ballet, the New York City Ballet is on my "must-see" list. As you know, darling readers, my life revolves around the art of ballet. It's in my blood, my heart, and, as you’ve witnessed, even in my sartorial choices. Next week, I plan to finally see them dance! I'm going to indulge in the sheer pleasure of watching professional ballerinas grace the stage in perfect harmony with the orchestra's beautiful melodies.

The week flew by, and I just didn’t get enough! There was a captivating exhibition of fashion design at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where I admired garments that looked as though they belonged in a fairytale! The Met is such an enchanting space, you just get lost in its grand halls.

And then there was the most magnificent view I’ve ever seen. It’s an odd sensation to be standing at the top of a glass and steel building overlooking this city that never sleeps, seeing the vast, glittering sea of twinkling lights spread out below you like a tapestry. There was a moment when I felt as though I could dance with the stars, like I was on top of the world. I took a moment to simply soak in the spectacle, a little pink tutu silhouette against the skyline, dreaming big dreams. It's moments like these that make the long days, the gruelling rehearsals, and the financial sacrifice so worth it.

The final night saw me at a small jazz club in Greenwich Village. I watched a charismatic saxophone player who captivated the audience with every note. There was so much energy, passion, and emotion on display in this dimly lit room. And for a few moments, it felt as though we were all part of a shared dream, lost in the magic of music. I must confess, darling readers, I had a few dances with some of the handsome chaps at the club! My pink tutu became a beacon of joyful energy in the smoky air.

But alas, all journeys must eventually end. The time to say goodbye has come. I have returned to London with a heavy heart but an overflowing suitcase of inspiration and adventure. I'm already planning my next trip back, as it just simply isn't enough. I already have my sights set on exploring Brooklyn and perhaps even venturing beyond the city limits. But that’s a story for another time, darlings.

Until next week,

Emma (www.pink-tutu.com)

Post-Script

Just a little post-script to share the excitement: on February 16th, 1998, an incredible piece of history unfolded in the fashion world: the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show premiered in New York! I could only imagine the glitz and glamour, but you know me, I have my eyes set on creating my own unique kind of runway! Perhaps I’ll bring a bit of London glamour to a small-town show back home in Derbyshire! Wouldn't it be fantastic to see a tutu-clad procession sashay down the street, bringing a splash of color and magic to everyday life?

After all, if the dream is big enough, why not give it a whirl? And as for me, it seems I'll just have to pack an extra pink tutu in my suitcase for my next big trip. Stay tuned!