Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina, Emma, back with another slice of New York City magic, and trust me, this week was utterly divine!
This week's blog marks my 433rd post in my NYC diary, a record that would make even the most dedicated fashion blogger blush (and maybe reach for a pink tutu, who knows?! 😉).
Travels from the Peaks of Derbyshire to the Peaks of Manhattan
As you know, my journey to the Big Apple is fuelled by the power of pirouettes and the thrill of performances. It’s quite the dance, really. A waltz of bookings, a tango of rehearsals, and a final, dramatic crescendo with a grand opening night, all leading to my grand tour of New York. This week, the performance was in the stunning city of Bristol, a city steeped in history and bursting with creative energy. It’s hard not to be inspired in a place that birthed the likes of Banksy and Bristol Old Vic, a theatre older than the very city it stands in! But, as the curtain fell on another successful performance, I was already dreaming of that New York City glow.
London, a Whirlwind Stop on the Way to the City That Never Sleeps
The journey from Bristol was swift, thanks to the wonders of the British rail system. A speedy train from Bristol to London, where I found myself briefly engulfed by the energy and the style of this cosmopolitan capital. I couldn’t resist a quick jaunt to Selfridges, a treat for my eyes and my wallet (thankfully, some new additions for my pink wardrobe!), and of course, a traditional English afternoon tea at The Dorchester, where my tutu and I caused quite a stir amongst the refined elegance!
But it wasn’t all sequins and strawberries; the real prize was that glorious sight, that iconic cityscape that always sends my heart soaring… The New York skyline, ever majestic and oh-so-dramatic!
Landing in the City of Dreams
The airport buzz was my music, the energy of New York resonating even through the hushed stillness of the air terminal. As I stepped out onto the pavement, the scent of hot dogs and pizza mixed with the crispness of a new season’s breeze. The taxi drivers honked their greetings, the sky seemed to stretch out forever above, and, oh, those yellow taxis! My favourite kind! I’ve truly never felt at home in any place the way I feel in New York. There’s something about this city, a kind of magic that makes even a tutu seem less whimsical, and more a celebration of style.
A Subway Safari and a Dreamy Encounter
My first mission: the subway! Now, let’s be real, the London tube is quite efficient, but in New York? Well, let’s just say it’s an adventure. But I love the buzz, the hustle and bustle of all these people from different backgrounds, with different stories. It feels alive!
After settling into my little haven for the week, a charming, bijou hotel on a cobblestone street in Greenwich Village, I donned my favourite, and perhaps most fabulous pink tutu, a billowing tulle confection I affectionately call 'The Sugarplum' and headed straight to The Museum of the Moving Image!
The museum, with its incredible collection of cinematic history, brought back memories of seeing ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ as a child and being totally blown away. I mean, can you imagine a time before colour films?! Such a leap of imagination! After getting lost in film history, I stepped out into the sunshine, a true New York beauty! And, wouldn't you know it, as I passed a street vendor selling hotdogs, my eyes fell on the most darling young girl in a pale pink tutu, twirling gracefully as she walked by! It’s the little moments, my darlings, that really make New York magic. A moment that made me realize… this is exactly why I started this pink tutu blog. To share my love for all things fabulous, for all things fun, and inspire others to dance their own kind of magic!
From Broadway to the Boutiques of Soho
It wouldn’t be a trip to New York without a dose of Broadway, now would it? This week, I was lucky enough to catch the revival of "Chicago," with its intoxicating mix of sass and sparkle. Oh, to be that free-spirited, scandalous Roxie Hart! I was totally swept away by the choreography, the music, and of course, the flamboyant costumes – all feathers and fringe, with just a touch of the forbidden! The final act with the iconic cell block tango was pure showstopping brilliance, and as I left the theatre, I couldn't help but let out a joyful twirl, feeling utterly inspired and buzzing from the experience.
But no visit to the city is complete without a dose of retail therapy, is it? I’m such a sucker for finding hidden gems, so Soho called to me with its promise of unique finds and indie designers. The vintage clothing shops in Soho are something special – treasures galore! I picked up a stunning black velvet top that would look fabulous with a splash of pink tutu, naturally, and a delicate vintage scarf in hues of amethyst and coral. Just browsing the vintage clothing and costume shops in New York feels like stepping back in time. Imagine all the stories they could tell! I left the area feeling utterly refreshed and feeling very lucky to be living out my dream in the heart of New York City!
Dining Delights & a Pink Tutu Feast
There’s no shortage of delicious food in this city. From hole-in-the-wall bakeries bursting with freshly-baked bagels and donuts to trendy rooftop restaurants offering stunning views, the culinary scene is one to behold. This week, I discovered a little gem called 'La Parisienne', tucked away on a quaint street, serving French classics and the most decadent pastries. The pain au chocolat, oh my! They certainly don't do dainty portions in New York, and I certainly didn't mind! I finished off the evening with a scoop (or two!) of mango sorbet, savoring the cool sweetness on a warm New York evening. After dinner, the craving for some classic New York City street food hit me. How could you resist a hotdog stand that promised mustard-laden bliss with every bite? Just imagine a pink tutu twirling, enjoying a crispy, spicy hotdog on the bustling streets of New York - Pure, unadulterated joy!
Reflecting on my Pink Tutu Journey
You know, darlings, I started this blog with a simple dream: to spread the joy and beauty of the pink tutu. From those first few hesitant blog posts, where I wore a pink tutu on a cold English day to the breathtaking moments when I danced alongside dancers at the New York City Ballet, the journey has been more amazing than I ever could have imagined. New York has welcomed me with open arms, and with every blog post, I hope I share just a little bit of that vibrant, colourful magic.
My days in New York were filled with sunshine, delicious food, the magic of Broadway, and endless twirls, of course! The tutu always makes its grand appearance wherever I go. From my stroll through Central Park, where I met some incredible street dancers, to my exploration of the High Line, a green haven above the city bustle.
As I prepare to return to the UK, the bustling metropolis starts to feel like a second home. And the thought of wearing a pink tutu amidst the grey skies of England doesn’t feel so crazy anymore. You see, it's about finding the sparkle and magic in every day, everywhere you go.
As I sit here, writing in my little hotel room, I can’t help but think of all the amazing adventures to come. There are more ballets to see, more shops to browse, and even more delicious food to eat.
I’m excited for my next week back home in the UK, and I’ll be sharing all my exciting new finds from my NYC trip with you soon, so be sure to check back on the blog for my London diary!
Until then, remember to always dance to your own rhythm, keep your eyes open for the sparkle, and never be afraid to embrace a little pink!
Sending you all my love and big hugs,
Emma xx
Website: www.pink-tutu.com Find me on: @pinktutublogger
