Pink Tutu Blog NYC - Post #472 - Monday, 21st June 2004 - New York, New York!
Hello my lovely tutu-loving friends! It's Emma here, back from a whirlwind weekend in the Big Apple.
My flight arrived just as the sun was setting, painting the Manhattan skyline in fiery hues. Oh, the drama! It felt like stepping straight out of a Broadway show. I practically twirled off the plane and onto the metro, tucking my pink tulle skirt into my vintage suitcase. Don't worry, I checked before boarding - the metro has no dress code, although my sparkly ballet flats did garner a few stares.
I know, I know, some people think tutus belong in a ballet studio. But let me tell you, my dear readers, a pink tutu can be worn anywhere. It's all about confidence and rocking your own personal style, and trust me, New York is the city to do just that.
A Glittering Grand Central Welcome
Stepping off the metro into Grand Central Station, I felt that iconic New York energy thrumming through me. Imagine, glittering marble floors, soaring ceilings, and enough architectural grandeur to make even the most jaded soul sigh with awe. I nearly twirled again, just out of sheer excitement, but thought better of it, this time. Maybe when I reach my hotel, I decided.
Fashion and Flair in Fifth Avenue
First stop - shopping! I'm always on the lookout for unique, fashion-forward pieces to add to my wardrobe, and Fifth Avenue is a treasure trove for any aspiring ballerina. From glamorous gowns at Bergdorf Goodman to whimsical designs at Anthropologie, there was something for everyone. I ended up with a delicate ivory blouse that I can imagine looking absolutely fabulous paired with a blush pink tulle skirt (naturally) and some sparkly ballerinas. Who wouldn't want to wear pink, it’s just such a joyous colour.
The Magical Magic of the Met
The next morning, I went to the Met, or as they call it, The Metropolitan Museum of Art. There's something about the energy of a museum, a place filled with history and art, that makes my tutu seem like it belongs. I floated past towering Grecian statues and peered into delicate oil paintings, feeling like a princess from a fairytale stepping into a museum, and I must say that my pink tutu, a little detail of fun, looked right at home amongst the ancient artifacts.
Seeing the Lights, Bright Lights on Broadway
No trip to New York is complete without experiencing the magic of Broadway. I went to see 'The Lion King', which was even more spectacular than I could have imagined! The costumes were fabulous, the music made me want to dance in the aisle (tempting, but I resisted) and the whole experience felt utterly magical. A Broadway show definitely warrants a pink tutu, just say'n!
More Shopping and Ballet
I love fashion and all that goes with it, and this time my heart took me to Saks Fifth Avenue. What’s the best place to find amazing balletwear you ask? Why, Saks Fifth Avenue, naturally, as long as you can manage the queue outside at lunchtime.
As if by destiny, on my second evening I came across an absolutely divine performance by the New York City Ballet. It was so breathtaking; I almost shed a tear (and a sparkle of glitter from my eyelid). There's a magic to seeing live ballet, an energy and grace that you can't capture on film. The dancers moved with such fluidity, their costumes twirled with every spin, it really was inspiring to watch.
The Unexpected Beauty of Central Park
One sunny afternoon, I wandered through Central Park. I don't know what it is about New York, but everything feels just a little more dramatic here. Maybe it's the iconic buildings looming in the background, or perhaps the hurried energy of the city pulsing through the park. I felt as if I had stepped into a romantic novel, a modern-day princess exploring a wild garden. I was truly lost in the moment and stopped to take photos and chat to other park goers, who were most intrigued by my outfit, I know, it must have seemed bizarre, but hey, I wasn't being boring, and you should never be boring!
Food Glorious Food!
Food plays a key role in any adventure, especially in a city as diverse as New York. Whether it's a classic slice of New York pizza, an extravagant dessert at an elegant French bistro, or even just a coffee and croissant on a sidewalk café, I'm always on the hunt for a culinary delight. I have to say, a hot dog with a swirl of mustard while sitting in Central Park just hit the spot for me, although it may be controversial, I think a little pink tulle adds the right kind of magic. I mean, come on, a princess can’t only eat from a silver plate, and even princesses eat hot dogs occasionally.
The Last Day
My time in New York City was fleeting but memorable. I felt the city's heart beating through every street, from the buzzing energy of Times Square to the sophisticated calm of a Central Park bench.
As the last rays of sunshine kissed the buildings goodbye, I said farewell to my New York fairy tale. I stepped back onto the metro, a suitcase of new fashion items, and, most importantly, a collection of cherished memories in tow. Oh, and did I mention the cupcake? I couldn't resist buying a gorgeous pink and white cupcake from a little bakery off Fifth Avenue, I may be a ballerina but even I have a sweet tooth. It was the perfect end to a perfect weekend, and reminded me that there are beautiful surprises to be found in every corner of this crazy world. I even found some extra sparkly sequins from that boutique on Broadway which are definitely getting added to my tutu.
I hope you enjoyed my adventures in the Big Apple! Remember, it's all about confidence and rocking your own unique style, so next time you're feeling adventurous, maybe, just maybe, put on your pink tutu. You never know where it might take you. Stay tuned for next week’s adventures on Pink-Tutu.com!
Until then, keep twirling!
Lots of love,
Emma xx