Hello, my lovely pink-loving tutu-wearers! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink-tutu-clad ballerina blogger, back from a whirlwind week in the Big Apple! As the iconic neon lights illuminate the skyscrapers, I can't help but feel a sense of awe and exhilaration at the sheer energy that permeates New York City.
This week has been a total whirlwind! From taking class at the renowned Steps on Broadway to watching mesmerising performances at the Lincoln Center, it's been a magical ballet-filled journey.
Stepping onto the New York Metro - A Fashionable Affair!
Let's start with my favourite part: the commute! I am so used to the metro, I've practically made it my second home (don't tell my Mum!), and there's nothing quite like navigating the crowded subway lines in my favourite pink tutu, feeling like a breath of fresh air amongst the hustle and bustle. I even had a gentleman compliment my tutu as he boarded, telling me "It's like a ray of sunshine on this grey Monday!" Now that's a pick-me-up!
I always pack my trusty fold-up tutu for these commutes, because you never know when a photo op will appear! It's amazing how a simple piece of clothing can spark a smile, make a conversation happen, and bring a little bit of colour into someone's day. It’s not all about the tutu though. My outfit this week included a sparkly silver crop top that glittered under the fluorescent lights of the metro, a pair of pink ballet flats, and of course, my signature pink feather boa – the perfect way to add a bit of "Emma flair"!
The Magical World of Ballet in NYC!
New York City is, of course, a global hub for ballet, and this week has been no exception. The sheer variety of classes and performances offered is unbelievable! On Monday, I hit up the Steps on Broadway, which was a dream come true. Taking a masterclass from world-renowned instructors, the atmosphere was electric – and definitely worth the sweat!
Speaking of sweat, my dance shoes needed a good scrub after all those turns and leaps. Thankfully, I found this fantastic little boutique near my hostel, called The Ballerina’s Shoe Shop, and they even had pink shoes! As soon as I saw them I had to snap them up. Now I’ve got pink tutus AND shoes! The colour pink just makes me happy, and this week, happiness in New York is essential.
But of course, no trip to New York would be complete without some awe-inspiring performances. I was lucky enough to catch the New York City Ballet performing at the David H. Koch Theater. It was magical, breathtaking, and utterly enchanting!
Seeing world-class ballerinas pirouette and leap with such grace and precision left me utterly spellbound. The energy was electric, and the entire audience was transported to another world. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the audience reminded me why I love to dance so much: it brings people together, creates a shared sense of joy, and is just simply beautiful to behold. I was even brave enough to approach a few dancers afterwards – they were even lovelier in person than I had imagined.
Fashionable Finds and Cultural Delights!
A day doesn't pass without me indulging in some retail therapy. My favourite shopping area is SoHo. The quirky boutiques are just begging to be explored, and the artistic vibe really gets my creative juices flowing. The cobblestone streets, the charming cafés, the vibrant artwork lining the walls, all combine to create a truly inspiring environment.
The latest addition to my wardrobe? A pink feather boa, a glittering diamante scarf (it matched the sequins on my new ballet shoes perfectly), and some fabulous faux fur for a touch of glamour, and some winter warmth – just in case it snows, or gets a little bit chilly on the subway!
I found a quaint vintage clothing store hidden away on Broadway called The Second Time Around. The staff are a delight and the store is jam-packed with an eclectic collection of treasures! I snagged an absolutely gorgeous vintage pink satin skirt – it is so perfect! You know me, always on the lookout for pink-tinted loveliness.
But it's not all about shopping, though! There's also a rich tapestry of cultural attractions to be experienced. This week, I visited the iconic MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) to soak up a world of artistic wonders, and I took in a dazzling performance at the Metropolitan Opera – I saw Carmen. It was so powerful, so moving, the music still lingers in my soul. I definitely plan to add it to my favourite operas playlist when I return to my cosy Derbyshire home.
The week’s not over though, and neither are my activities. Tomorrow, I'm planning a visit to the Empire State Building for a spectacular panoramic view of the city skyline, then a visit to the New York Public Library – it's been a dream of mine to spend an afternoon surrounded by so many books. They even have a gorgeous Rose Main Reading Room that’s truly something special!
The magic of New York City lies in its ability to enchant you with its constant stream of dazzling sights, tantalizing sounds, and heart-pumping energy. And let me tell you, wearing my pink tutu and embracing the vibrant pulse of the city definitely enhances the experience! If there’s a magical, wondrous feeling I want everyone to know and feel, it’s that pink tutu feeling, you know? That wonderful carefree and delightful sense of fun.
This blog has given me such inspiration – perhaps I’ll design my own tutu line, with sparkly sequin details and feathers and the most glorious shades of pink you can imagine. Then everyone can have their own magical pink tutu moment!
Don’t forget, check back next week for another NYC adventure! And be sure to wear a pink tutu at least once this week, to spread some joy and magic wherever you go. Until next time, happy twirling!
Love, Emma xxx
