Hey lovelies! It’s Emma here, back from a whirlwind weekend in the Big Apple. You all know I live for New York – the energy, the lights, the sheer endless possibility of a new outfit just waiting to be discovered in a little vintage shop somewhere.
And of course, what would a trip to New York be without some ballet? I mean, we are talking about the birthplace of Balanchine and Jerome Robbins here!
This week's blog, post number 924 for my New York series on www.pink-tutu.com, is bursting with pink and plenty of sequins (as is usual!). Let's jump right in!
Friday Night FeverFriday saw me bounding off the Metro – don't even ask me how much luggage I managed to cram onto that train – and straight into my favourite vintage shop in Brooklyn. It's a tiny, cluttered little space crammed full of fabulous dresses from decades past and this week was all about 1980s prom vibes. My pink satin dream – complete with a glittery shoulder pad – found a home in my suitcase!
After that, I caught up with my friend Amy (who’s a fellow ballerina) at a new rooftop bar with spectacular views of the skyline. The atmosphere was buzzing with the city's electricity, and Amy – ever the fashion icon – had a fab vintage velvet jumpsuit that totally set off her crimson lips. She’s my fashion muse – constantly pushing me to step out of my comfort zone, try something new and own it.
Saturday – All About BalletSaturday morning was for ballet! A visit to a famous dance studio for an intense class led by a truly legendary ballerina who really pushed us to our limits. Talk about challenging!
But the reward for the workout was the chance to see one of my favourite ballerinas, The divine [insert name of ballerina] (yes, I am a huge fan girl) in a performance of Giselle. It was magical! The sheer energy on the stage, the perfect blend of sadness and beauty, just left me utterly speechless. Afterward, I even managed to nab a quick chat with her in the theatre lobby. Turns out she’s a huge fan of the colour pink – imagine my joy! We even talked about matching tutus for our next trip to a Broadway show together! I may have mentioned that a trip to the Metropolitan Opera to see their latest ballet offering is definitely on my agenda – I have the perfect blush pink tulle outfit ready and waiting!
Later that night, a little ballet-themed magic, and of course, more vintage shopping (it’s just like a drug!), filled the evening, topped off by a beautiful, authentically-New-York-style dinner with my favourite friends at the legendary [Insert name of famous New York restaurant] - where we made a pact to revisit for our birthday dinners!
Sunday FundaySunday meant time for more fun in the city. I am such a sucker for museums! This time I visited a museum focusing on 19th-century dance – such incredible gowns and amazing documentation of the history of ballet in America. A fascinating way to spend a Sunday afternoon, surrounded by exquisite costume designs.
And to top it all off, the afternoon's grand finale was the legendary [Insert name of a well-known musical, with a name to do with NYC]. Of course, I went for it with a touch of New York chic - a fabulous sequin dress and the best red patent leather heels I could find in a vintage shop near the theatre! Talk about glamorous! The whole experience – from the energetic cast, the catchy songs to the impressive stage set - just summed up my perfect Sunday in the city.
Back in England, But the Memories RemainI'm back in England now, but my heart is still in New York City. It's not a secret that New York is a place that leaves you wanting more. The buzz, the energy, the excitement just radiates from every corner, making it impossible not to fall head over heels for this wonderful city.
Life Lessons from NYCMy latest New York trip was about remembering those key life lessons:
Chase Your Dreams: When it comes to dancing and travelling, you simply cannot let anything hold you back. Grab your pink tutu and chase after your dreams, whether they involve the big stage, a little boutique, or a world adventure.
Find Your Tribe: The best part of New York is knowing you'll always find an amazing community of passionate people, like myself. Be open to new friendships and keep exploring until you find yours!
Shine Your Light: You never know who you might inspire! Remember that girl you saw across the stage, the woman in that amazing outfit at a vintage shop – you could be the reason they found the courage to step into the spotlight and own their sparkle.
Keep Moving: Like the city that never sleeps, we should keep striving and always moving towards something beautiful. Don’t settle for the mundane, find that spark of energy and enthusiasm for every single day.
Now, don't forget to check back next week for another New York adventure, and remember, whether you're in the heart of the city, on a Derbyshire village street, or enjoying a ballet in a town hall theatre – life is meant to be lived in a pink tutu.
Until next week lovelies, keep dancing!
Emma xx
