Monday 28th November 2022
Hello darlings! It’s Emma, back from another whirlwind week in the Big Apple, and oh my, do I have stories to tell!
New York, you know you've got me completely and utterly smitten. From the towering skyscrapers that pierce the sky, to the endless cacophony of sirens, taxis, and chattering pedestrians, there's just something electric about this city.
But this week, the city truly felt magical, like I was stepping onto the stage of a Broadway production.
Why, you ask? Because it's officially the start of the festive season!
The crisp air was filled with the scent of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts, festive music was bubbling from every street corner, and the window displays of the iconic department stores were exquisite. And of course, New Yorkers are already in full holiday mode - from their glittering tree ornaments to the cheerful smiles shared with strangers.
This city knows how to do festive magic, darlings!
A Ballet Blitz!Now, where do I even begin to tell you about my ballet extravaganza this week? I started with a whirlwind of classes, taking in a new technique at the prestigious Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater - such a joy to move in that historic space. Their "open classes" are just perfect for getting those dance muscles fired up!
Then it was on to the American Ballet Theatre, where I enjoyed an elegant pas de deux workshop with none other than Misty Copeland herself! Talk about inspiring, darling.
Of course, I had to treat myself to some ballet-inspired outfits from some of New York's chicest boutiques (we'll get to the shopping haul in a moment!) It felt fantastic to layer a delicate tutu skirt over a sparkly black turtleneck – perfect for those chilly New York evenings.
I also took advantage of some lovely local events. On Thursday, I caught a delightful performance at the Lincoln Center's Mostly Mozart festival. They even had an impromptu flash mob featuring a Pink Tutu moment - can you imagine! Two ladies, wearing glorious pink tutus, waltzing their way through the heart of Lincoln Center! Oh, the sheer joy!
And speaking of pink tutus… You can't forget my signature accessory! * Pink was *very much in my colours this week! I rocked my blush pink tutu while browsing the latest designer shoes at Barneys (because one must always have the perfect footwear for a New York night!)
The tutu even got me some admiring glances from the street performers - a real Broadway ballet feel!
And it all culminated in the perfect end to my week: I saw the Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet. Imagine: dazzling sets, breathtaking costumes, Tchaikovsky's magnificent score! Pure magic, my darlings, pure magic.
This ballet is so full of festive cheer – you can't help but be caught up in the fairytale! I'll be back at the City Ballet on New Year's Eve to see a performance of Swan Lake. Now, if that doesn't put you in a festive mood, I don't know what will!
Shopping Spree, Darling!Now, the ballet might be the core of my New York life, but it's simply impossible to visit this city without indulging in a little retail therapy, wouldn't you agree?
And what better time to go on a shopping spree than the holiday season! New York City truly transforms for Christmas, with shimmering decorations on every corner. You simply cannot walk through the city without being seduced by the dazzling shop window displays and festive boutiques.
It's just too tempting, darling! How could I resist?
First stop, Bergdorf Goodman, a true fashion icon. I was enchanted by the intricate window displays (imagine miniature scenes inspired by ballet!). It was as if I’d stepped onto the stage of the Metropolitan Opera, except I was there to admire breathtaking clothes and exquisite jewellery rather than spectacular performances!
And while Bergdorf Goodman offered the perfect mix of high-fashion extravagance and everyday essentials, my heart truly belongs to the charm and the hidden gems you find tucked away in the streets of the SoHo neighbourhood. There’s just a magical charm about those independent boutiques and vintage clothing stores – they offer the opportunity to discover unique pieces and express your true individual style.
I even stumbled upon a delightful little antique shop, and you know my love for vintage finds. Imagine this: an elegant velvet-lined box containing a pair of delicate rose gold earrings adorned with a delicate pink ballerina pendant.
How could I possibly resist? The most exquisite piece to add to my collection!
Of course, no shopping spree in New York City is complete without a visit to the Fifth Avenue, where luxury takes centre stage! From Tiffany & Co to Cartier and Louis Vuitton, it's truly a place to dream and indulge your wildest fantasies (especially when you're armed with a pair of pink ballet slippers - that seems to make any dream come true!). Even if I don’t purchase anything, I can just lose myself in the atmosphere and marvel at the world's most prestigious brands! It's an experience you can't get anywhere else.
Adventures in the City That Never Sleeps!You know my darling, New York truly has it all - from high fashion and fabulous shows to its incredible energy and vibrant culture, it's just impossible to be anything but enthralled by this dynamic metropolis!
And just when you think you've seen it all, the city throws another curveball, pulling you deeper into its dazzling embrace.
For me, it was a chance encounter with a local artisan market – filled with colourful handmade crafts and quirky vintage finds.
Imagine my delight when I discovered a charming little stall selling unique handmade tutu skirts in all shades of pink, from the softest blush to the boldest magenta! I was so excited!
I immediately snagged a beautiful cerise tutu with glittering sequined accents, just perfect for a night of ballet inspired fun (who can resist a little sparkly glamor!).
*It seems as though my pink tutu is becoming a bit of a magnet! You can imagine the surprise (and delight) when someone on the metro stopped me, "Oh my, you've got such an incredible tutu! Is there any chance you're part of the show?" *Why, my darlings, everyone wants a little sprinkle of that ballet magic in their lives!
Oh, and can we just take a moment to appreciate the wonder that is the New York metro? It's a bustling hive of activity, full of unique characters and a cacophony of noise. Yet somehow, I love the rush of hopping onto a train and knowing that, in just a few stops, I could be anywhere from Central Park to Times Square. The vibrant energy is just intoxicating! And you know it's impossible to take a journey on the metro without hearing someone say “excuse me” about a million times! But don’t let this discourage you! This constant politeness and care is one of the endearing features of the Big Apple, wouldn’t you say?
What's on this date...Okay, now, let's take a moment to reflect on what was happening around the world on this date...
As always, a good friend in the know provided me with all the need-to-know information.
Let’s dive into that fabulous time machine, shall we?
- The date Monday, November 28, 2022, is part of a very busy holiday season. Remember those window displays in Bergdorf Goodman? Those took an impressive 40 days to design and install, from the concept sketch to the final reveal, for you to ooh and ahh at.
- You see all those beautiful, intricately designed holiday trees in those store windows? Well, the world was abuzz that this date, the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony took place on the White House Ellipse. I watched the news report with all those beautiful decorations and festive tunes - my festive heart just fluttered!
- Did you know that today is also known as “The 1st Annual World Gratitude Day"? Apparently, there's an initiative by some non-profit organisation to promote thankfulness, joy and generosity… and I just adore this.
But I find there’s something pretty wonderful about expressing a little thankfulness every day of the year. Especially when you have so many beautiful and meaningful experiences on the journey.
You know, it just feels good.
Until Next Time, My Darlings...And that's a wrap on another fabulous week in New York City.
I have to dash, darling! My schedule is bursting at the seams! Tomorrow, I’ll be joining the iconic ballet troupe at the New York City Opera, for a ‘Meet the Ballet’ event - I’m absolutely bursting with excitement!
Until next week, stay curious, be bold and never stop dancing your dreams… especially in your pink tutu, darling!
Yours in Ballet and Bubbles,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
