Hey lovelies! It's your favourite tutu-wearing blogger, Emma, and I'm back with a whopping post from the Big Apple! I'm in love with this city, it's like a dream come true for a pink-obsessed ballet fanatic like me.
This week has been a whirlwind of tulle, tiaras, and tap shoes - a true Pink Tutu extravaganza! I've been dipping my toes (and my tutu, of course!) into the vibrant energy of New York City, and I can't wait to share all the fun with you.
Monday 2009-07-06
My morning started bright and early with a sunrise metro journey across Manhattan! I love the way the sunshine illuminates the city's sprawling skyline. This city truly never sleeps.
And speaking of sleeping, my fabulous pink-themed apartment is right in the heart of the city! Can you imagine?! It’s complete with a mirrored wall and a tutu stand that doubles as a coat rack. Who needs a dressing room when you have a whole apartment dedicated to your inner ballerina? 😉
My afternoon was dedicated to something I always make time for: Ballet class! It's not easy finding time for everything in this fast-paced city, but squeezing in a few hours at the world-renowned American Ballet Theatre studio was non-negotiable. I met the most lovely ballet dancer from Ohio. I love finding out more about where fellow dancers are from, especially from over the pond! We had such a fun time after class sharing tea, biscuits and gossip about our favourite ballerinas - did you know I met a former New York City Ballet principal dancer at the studio just last week?!
Speaking of stars, the main event this evening was “The Nutcracker” at the Lincoln Center! It was simply breathtaking! I could have watched it all night. Tchaikovsky's music is always such a pleasure and the choreography was top-notch. I was amazed by the precision and skill of the dancers. You've got to see it if you ever get the chance! Afterward, I hit the streets with my fellow ballet friends for some fun cocktails and chit chat, followed by a delicious pizza dinner in a cozy Italian trattoria, with the most divine truffle-infused pasta! You could say it was a delicious end to a perfect day.
Tuesday 2009-07-07
My Tuesday was a busy one, and it all began at Bloomingdale's. It’s like the wonderland of pink and all things fabulous. They have everything a girl could possibly desire, and their tutu collection is to die for! It was quite a tempting situation to be in! But I managed to contain my urges and stuck to buying one glorious fuchsia tutu that reminded me of a summer sunrise. 😉 You'll just have to see my pictures!
Later, I popped into one of my favourite cafes to write my weekly post! Coffee, croissants, and a killer view of the Empire State Building – it's definitely a tough life for a ballerina blogger. I also treated myself to some incredible shoe-shopping. New York is a shopaholic's dream!
Of course, I took the time to indulge in some sightseeing! I even popped by the Empire State Building. That view was incredible. Seeing the entire city from that vantage point, knowing I was a part of the hustle and bustle - a tiny speck of pink in this ocean of vibrant energy – felt utterly magical!
Wednesday 2009-07-08
Another day, another ballet class. I simply cannot get enough of it! It feels like this is truly where I belong.
Then, it was off to explore the High Line - a former railway track turned into a vibrant green park with panoramic views. I couldn’t help but grab some pictures of the iconic NYC skyscrapers and imagine all the tales those buildings hold within their brick walls. They’re simply so beautiful. I stopped for a picnic lunch at a park bench, and guess what?! A fellow tutu-wearing woman recognised my blog and came to say hello! It’s truly incredible what happens when you spread a message of kindness, positivity and pink!
For dinner, I enjoyed the best Greek salad ever! I was craving Mediterranean flavors, and a charming little bistro in Chelsea totally hit the spot. This city has some amazing culinary treasures hidden down its streets, it’s quite an exciting discovery every time I visit.
Thursday 2009-07-09
This was the day I’d been waiting for: the Metropolitan Opera Nutcracker ballet! It was absolutely dazzling, full of stunning sets and gorgeous costumes, not to mention the dazzling dance performance by a phenomenal cast of dancers. Oh, how I loved the graceful choreography, the captivating storytelling and, of course, Tchaikovsky's exquisite music. You know you have a passion for something when you watch a ballet about nutcrackers and feel an overwhelming rush of happiness and a deep desire to throw your arms in the air! The entire experience was truly something magical.
Afterward, I had a night of laughter and late-night drinks with some friends in an underground bar on 24th Street, it was the perfect place to relax and decompress after a hectic few days.
Friday 2009-07-10
It was time for another adventure: I jumped onto a Metro, and travelled across the city, ready to explore the East Village and Greenwich Village. The city buzzed around me, a delicious cocktail of urban energy, art and creativity, and it filled my senses with excitement and wonder. I popped into some vintage clothing stores, and got lost in a world of timeless style! They've got such an amazing selection of retro clothes, and I snagged a gorgeous teal frock dress from the 1950s for a steal! This city never disappoints when it comes to unique fashion finds! You just never know what gems you’ll discover around every corner! Later, I had lunch at a cafe filled with a group of musicians jamming out. It was so vibrant, I couldn't help but join in the lively conversations and spontaneous singalongs. The afternoon was truly a celebration of music, creativity, and of course, life!
Later in the evening, I went to see the best show: the *New York City Ballet Romeo and Juliet performance. It was absolutely incredible! It was all so enchanting, the dance sequences flowed with passion, drama, and heartbreaking love, all wrapped in the enchanting sound of Tchaikovsky’s symphony! Afterwards, I savored a delightful glass of red wine with some fellow ballet enthusiasts in a quiet little bistro near the theater.
Saturday 2009-07-11
Saturday started with a blissful dose of brunch at the Grand Central Station Oyster Bar - can you imagine?! The osters were exquisite and my mimosas were bottomless! It was a delightful way to begin the day.
Then it was back to ballet class! It never fails to be a tonic for the soul, as well as for my aching feet. 🩰 After an hour and a half of sweat and beautiful choreography, it was back to my flat. I spent the evening putting together the video blog, trying to catch all the highlights of my week in NYC! You can catch it later on Pink-Tutu.com (I think I've said it too many times already, but if you’ve not checked it out already, do go on!) I hope you enjoy it.
After uploading it, I put my feet up (finally) to relax, watch the world go by from my apartment balcony, and take a moment to enjoy this breathtaking city with its mesmerizing energy, vibrant sights, and boundless beauty. I took a break and relaxed at the Pink Room Bar just across from the Lincoln Center. It has the cutest pastel pink interior – and serves some seriously fantastic cocktails!
Sunday 2009-07-12
Time to recharge before my return to the UK tomorrow. I wanted a relaxed Sunday morning, and my breakfast was divine. Pancakes, fruit salad and lashings of freshly squeezed orange juice – pure deliciousness! Later, I took myself on a romantic walk through Central Park. It is such a beautiful contrast to the city's energetic vibe and always a pleasure to lose yourself in. I am always reminded of Jane Eyre’s iconic walk in the park, but the scenery is more like Gossip Girl. I bought a coffee from the park kiosk and then headed to the zoo, I’d always wanted to visit the animals of New York!
Then it was back to my apartment to pack my bag. The highlight of my journey? That is a tricky one, it’s all so magical in this city! I can’t decide if the ballet shows were better than shopping for shoes or eating delicious food – what can I say? NYC knows how to get its guests in a whirl!
I had a final celebratory dinner of Szechuan food with a dear friend. I absolutely adored my meal. And of course, as per tradition, we ended the night on the Metro.
One thing I've realised this week is that this city is a place where dreams come true. Whether you're chasing after your dreams in ballet, fashion, or food – New York embraces your inner ballerina, supports your aspirations, and invites you to paint the town pink!
*A Pink Tutu Tip: * For all you budding bloggers out there, my advice is this: Never be afraid to be yourself and be fearless in your pursuits! The most magical things happen when you step outside of your comfort zone and just be yourself – that's what makes you truly beautiful! Remember, pink is always the perfect color for making dreams a reality! 💖
Until next week, lovelies! Remember to keep shining and twirling your way through life!
Love, Emma xox
PS: You can follow my journey around the world and catch up on my favourite moments on www.pink-tutu.com.
