#PinkTutuBlogNYC Monday 2013-05-27 she danced in New York City

Hello my darlings! It's Monday again, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu Blog NYC post. This week I'm absolutely bursting with excitement because guess where I am? That's right, the magical city that never sleeps – New York City! And believe me, I haven't slept a wink since I arrived, what with the bright lights and buzzing energy, there's simply too much to see and do.

I always say, New York is the ultimate place to live out your tutu-dreams, and this trip's already exceeding expectations! From the gorgeous architecture and vibrant streets to the phenomenal ballet performances and fabulous fashion, this city is absolutely brimming with pink-tutu-worthy experiences!

It all began with a rather spectacular journey from good ol' Derbyshire. Now, let's be honest, travelling isn't always the most glamorous of activities. But who can resist a good, old-fashioned train journey? I dozed off dreaming of all the amazing things I'd see in New York, only to be woken by the sound of a melodic “Welcome to the United States, folks.” From that moment on, I knew my trip was going to be exceptional.

Arriving at JFK, it was time to travel to the heart of Manhattan. Ah, the subway. As a regular metro commuter in London, I absolutely adore New York’s underground network! Navigating it is a real adventure and I found myself chuckling as the announcements boomed “Next Stop…Time Square!” I love the speed of these trains, it’s an exhilarating ride every time, just be careful when it comes to boarding, I can’t believe I just squeezed myself through the doors onto that rush hour train… the doors just closed as I walked in. So very New York!

After checking into my hotel in the Upper East Side, my mission was to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The hotel had an elegant lobby – definitely fit for a ballerina with my own pink tutu collection in tow – so I unpacked with a giggle at how many different tutus I had crammed in my suitcase. It was an impossible choice, but I went for a classic, billowing tulle tutu, as it’s versatile for so many occasions. It was perfect to explore the Upper East Side in all its luxurious glory!

With my pink tutu in place and a giddy spring in my step, I wandered along Fifth Avenue and let myself be swept away by the sights and sounds. Everything here is just bigger and brighter, more exhilarating, and yet somehow still graceful, like the movements of a ballerina! From the impossibly tall buildings that pierce the sky, to the glamorous people and the sheer hustle and bustle – it was an intoxicating cocktail of energy that had me dancing to the rhythm of the city streets!

Of course, New York wouldn't be New York without the incredible window displays, the designer stores that leave my head spinning, and the intoxicating smells of hotdogs, pretzels and coffee. Everywhere I looked there was something captivating to take in. From the towering skyscrapers with their dizzying views of the cityscape to the hidden alleyways filled with artistic graffiti and street performers showcasing their talent - there's always a surprise around every corner in New York.

Of course, I wasn’t in the city for long without attending at least one ballet show. Tonight was a night of pure magic at the New York City Ballet at the Lincoln Center! I absolutely adored the program - Jewels, a selection of works inspired by different cultures! I found myself mesmerised by the captivating choreography, the spectacular dancers who flowed across the stage, their every movement fluid and effortless.

For my outing, I picked a gorgeous shimmering silver tutu with black ribbons. I truly felt like a ballerina ready to join them onstage. Of course, I'd been attending classes at The Steps on Broadway before the performance to work up my own technique – and trust me, it’s pretty intense!

After the show, I found myself swept away by the buzz of excitement and chat of fellow ballet lovers at an intimate nearby cafe. It was the perfect ending to a magical evening. The theatre made me realise the power of dance, its ability to transcend boundaries and ignite emotions, to captivate hearts and leave audiences speechless with awe. It was pure inspiration!

Now, New York isn't all about ballet – although for a ballet girl, that does seem to be everything, but no, there are actually more things I love, I mean who can resist the amazing fashion scene of the Big Apple?! From vintage gems to cutting-edge designers, this city is an absolute haven for any fashion lover.

As soon as I stepped foot into my hotel, I made a beeline to the nearby shopping mecca – the iconic Fifth Avenue. The moment I entered Saks, my eyes went wide with excitement! The rows and rows of fabulous gowns, couture dresses, luxurious accessories, and shoes that felt as if they’d been specially designed for a dancing princess - It was an absolute dream come true! I didn't buy anything, honestly, I simply couldn't choose just one piece! But, after much debate, I settled on a pair of pink high heels and a cute little pink sparkly bag with sequins and little bow details – just my style, of course.

Another highlight of my fashion frenzy was exploring the chic and stylish SoHo area with all the incredible independent stores! The vibrant energy of the district is a welcome break from the chaos of Times Square! I must say the quirky, creative boutiques there are right up my street and definitely put me in the mood for more fashion adventures!

Throughout my whirlwind trip, I’ve been spreading the pink-tutu-joy wherever I've gone. A fellow New Yorker who spotted my fluffy tulle number smiled at me – I instantly became a bit of an internet sensation on the internet! You wouldn’t believe how many people I’ve inspired to embrace their inner ballerina. One group of kids on a street corner gave me a round of applause as they said they'd “never seen anything like it” and a fashion blogger complimented my outfit in a busy park! They loved my signature tutu look and wanted to be like me - wearing one of the most glamorous garments on the planet. It really does go to show that fashion has no limits, and a good tutu is bound to spread some much needed pink-tutu-joy in our world.

Of course, the tutu love has even crossed over to the New York Ballet! The dancer who played my favourite character was so sweet, he even signed a signed copy of the program for me with a dedication! "To my fellow tutu lover," he wrote! It meant the world!

I have to admit, even for someone who travels a lot, there have been moments where New York City has simply taken my breath away! One such instance happened when I was walking through Central Park – the green lungs of Manhattan! Everything about it was magical - the blooming flowers, the bustling crowds, the energetic laughter, the sight of couples sharing romantic moments under the trees.

I felt a sense of peace amid the city's energy and it reminded me that the tutu's gentle, flowing movements and airy design remind us to appreciate the beautiful little moments that life throws at us. It’s about making the most of every opportunity, just like this magical city of dreams.

As I watched a group of kids dance to a song on a street corner – their carefree movements were so spontaneous and infectious, and reminded me that dancing and expressing yourself should be joyful! They all seemed to be captivated by my own pink-tutu ensemble too. One little girl, a tutu-loving little fairy, even told me she wanted to be a ballerina one day!

My journey in New York has given me an abundance of inspiration. As my time in this dynamic metropolis draws to a close, I’m reflecting on my time here – it has truly inspired me to bring the magic of New York to Derbyshire.

In the meantime, you can find more images from this trip over on the website at www.pink-tutu.com! Don’t forget to tag your tutu-licious moments using #PinkTutuNYC - you know I’m constantly browsing my Insta to see what you guys are up to.

Now, darling, my New York adventures aren't quite over just yet! My flight back is in the early hours tomorrow so it's going to be an exciting “one last night out!”

Until then, happy twirling!

Emma