A tutu-tastic time in the Big Apple!
Hello my darlings! It’s Emma here, fresh back in London after a whirlwind week in New York City. My week was bursting with excitement, tutus and so much shopping it left my bank account a little lightheaded. But when you're in New York City, what else is there to do?
This trip was fuelled by a stellar performance of Swan Lake at Lincoln Center, and a chance to explore my absolute favourite city in the world (that would be New York, not Derby – just clarifying!). You see, a lot of you asked where I get the funds for all this globetrotting, and you're in for a treat! My life is funded by a little (and often) bit of performance magic! I've got a rather secret talent for, you guessed it, ballet! I actually earn my keep by performing at venues like the Royal Opera House in London – where I get to wear some absolutely fabulous tutus – you just can’t get more perfect! So that's how I get to swan around the world!
And New York is simply divine when you’re in a dancing mood. The sheer energy, the vibrant colours, the bustle - it all swirls around you like a perfectly executed pirouette. I even took a ballet class at the Alvin Ailey Dance Studio in the West Village – an absolute dream come true!
But the adventure started even before I set foot in NYC. My train journey across the pond, from my dear Derbyshire, was full of fashion and fun. My fuchsia suitcase, complete with sparkly, silver wheels (always a good way to travel!), housed a carefully curated wardrobe, ready for a week of New York fashion adventures. I swear, sometimes I even manage to cram a tutu in there too, although this time I left it for a later performance – much to my little tutu collection's delight.
On arrival, I was struck by how this city truly lives and breathes 24 hours a day. There's an incredible energy pulsing through every street corner. And I loved everything! Even the noise, although I will confess to my initial anxieties!
My New York apartment, located in the heart of Manhattan (a pink building with little black trim!), is the perfect home base for my whirlwind exploration. Its balcony overlooks a bustling little street scene – where I sit in my comfy white wicker chair and write my blog, or people watch and make my New York style observations!
Shopping Til I DropSo, where did my little pink feet take me? Here's the lowdown on the shopping I managed to fit into my NYC diary!
Macy’s Herald Square. A must-visit, even if just for a little wander around the fashion departments. They truly know how to display and design a department store. So chic, so shiny, and I always find a good pink sale item or two.
Bloomingdale’s. This store, to my mind, is all about indulgence and elegance. I could get lost in their lingerie and perfume departments. Everything has such a sense of luxury. It was also here I spotted my first 'pink tutu on the go'!
The Metropolitan Museum of Art. You wouldn’t think of it as a shopping destination, but in reality, their gift shop is full of gorgeous, New York-themed knick-knacks. You might even find some vintage jewellery and antique fashion items, which I did!
Forever 21 on Broadway. This is one of my favourite bargain-hunt spots – the best place for fun fashion accessories and bargain buys, in every shade of pink imaginable!
Sephora. Ok, a little bit obvious, but my New York diary wouldn't be complete without a trip to Sephora. I can’t leave without grabbing a few make-up samples, some new fragrances, and always a gorgeous lipstick! I've recently discovered a new love for pink blush – it’s like a pink dream on your face.
Culture, Fashion, and a Twirl in Central ParkOkay, enough about the shopping (for now!).
But here's a little glimpse into my cultural life:
The New York Public Library. What a beautiful building – they even have a magnificent lion at the entrance, much to my delight. A true book lover's paradise. Plus, you can sit there with a good book and just admire the architecture. So beautiful!
Broadway! A night at the theatre was a must. I managed to grab tickets for “Annie” - it was a fun show for my inner child.
The Museum of Modern Art. What a fabulous place for artistic inspiration, and there were lots of 'pink' exhibitions, with stunning sculptures, abstract artworks, and so many opportunities to twirl in awe in front of them!
And no trip to New York would be complete without a walk in Central Park. It’s a breath of fresh air - it feels like a hidden, calm haven in the midst of all the chaos of this fantastic city. I must confess to doing a little twirl by the fountain, but I was alone so nobody minded, thank goodness.
I'll keep you updated on my latest tutu and travel finds!
Until next time my darling tutu lovers - Much Love, Emma xox www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. If you happen to see me around the world, give a little wave, and maybe even a pirouette! I might even offer you a pink ribbon to tie around your arm (or ankle!) if you fancy! Let’s bring a touch of tutus and pink to everyone’s lives!
P.P.S I have found that a perfect place to discover fun pink tutus and a touch of pink everything (even some pink ballet shoes!), is on Broadway between 83rd and 90th. There are also loads of cute shops here, perfect for fashion lovers like myself!
