Hello darlings!
It’s Emma here, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, and today I’m bursting with excitement about my New York City adventures. You might recall from my last post, my Derbyshire roots were calling. However, fate had other plans. It's no secret I love London, but the call of the Big Apple proved too tempting to resist. My diary has been filled with thrilling stories for a week already, so grab a cuppa (and perhaps a slice of cake) and join me on this fab journey!
This time around, my trip to New York was tied to an opportunity that couldn't be missed. You see, I was invited to perform at the most prestigious dance gala in all of the United States! The "Stars of Ballet" gala, a star-studded affair bringing together the very best dancers in the world, invited a humble ballerina like myself! Well, I’d hardly be true to my Pink Tutu brand if I turned it down, right? And let me tell you, this isn’t my first rodeo. My ballet shoes have graced stages all over Europe. I’ve even pirouetted alongside some very famous prima ballerinas. So to be dancing on this stage with all the heavyweights of the dance world…it was pure magic!
A Wardrobe fit for a Ballet Goddess
As always, a bit of fashion fun went hand-in-hand with my NYC excursion! You know me – I simply can’t go anywhere without my tutu. Now, let's be honest, I've accumulated quite the collection over the years! I’m not one for just any old tulle, darlings. It has to be a masterpiece, perfect for pirouettes and grand jetés alike!
My suitcase was packed to the brim, my carefully curated collection of pink tutus, from a frothy, pastel blush one, to a fierce magenta one, sparkling with sequins, were ready to set NYC ablaze.
This week I'm particularly loving the “Candy Clouds” tutu – a light-as-air creation that practically floats when you move, complete with iridescent beads cascading down the tiers. Imagine fluffy clouds painted with a delicate rainbow – that's the effect this tutu evokes! This one’s been garnering tons of compliments here. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a hot pink silk dress – the perfect ensemble for a New York City evening.
And of course, no outfit is complete without my favourite accessories. This week it's my delicate diamond bracelet (thank you, Mum, for that thoughtful birthday present!). You'll catch glimpses of this twinkling wonder throughout my NYC blog, alongside a gorgeous pink vintage brooch I scored in a boutique in SoHo!
Dancing Under the Stars
Now, onto the real highlight: the gala performance!
It was the kind of magical moment you dream about as a little girl – stepping onto the stage at the world-famous Carnegie Hall in New York City. The spotlight blindingly bright, the hushed anticipation in the air. And, the roaring applause of the crowd!
Our ballet was a modern reimagining of ‘Giselle’, with a modern twist. Imagine the traditional, romantic storyline, but with a dash of sass and an unexpected ending that had the audience buzzing. The crowd went absolutely wild, clapping, hooting, and whistling. The feeling was incredible – an electric, joyous energy. The best part was dancing alongside other world-class ballet stars! Each one so talented, each one pushing themselves and each other to achieve peak performance. We made each other better, you see, inspiring and encouraging each other. I made lifelong friends that night!
It wasn't just about dancing; it was about the camaraderie, the shared love of ballet that we felt so strongly. We all have such different backgrounds, but on that stage, we were all connected by our passion for dance.
City Sights and Urban Ballet
But of course, I couldn't possibly visit the Big Apple without exploring all that it has to offer. New York is an incredible city full of culture, energy, and hidden gems. You can practically feel the vibrancy in the air! It’s a bit overwhelming to be honest, and if I’m being honest, the crowds aren’t my favourite. But it is utterly thrilling.
Naturally, my favourite way to explore is the subway. I simply love the Metro system – so quick, easy and it gets you right into the heart of the action. Just last night, I had a particularly memorable journey. I found myself on a packed train during rush hour, the soundtrack a pulsating symphony of city life. Suddenly, a woman began performing an impromptu dance! Her moves were incredible. It turns out she was a dancer with a Broadway show. It just shows you – art can be found anywhere in NYC, even in a subway train at the busiest hour!
This trip’s really made me consider how I can weave the city's energy into my choreography. Just watching those dancers and buskers on the street has sparked a million creative ideas. Maybe a new routine featuring the bold spirit of NYC, with a touch of tutu magic, of course.
Shop ‘til You Drop
Now, it’s simply not possible to come to New York without indulging in some retail therapy! Shopping is a must, especially in a city famous for its fashion!
My first stop, naturally, was Fifth Avenue, the ultimate destination for haute couture and iconic fashion brands. I fell head over heels for a new pink handbag in Tiffany's. It’s the most gorgeous shade of dusty rose and the leather feels so soft and luxurious. Now that’s what I call a statement piece.
My next destination: The famous "A Touch of Pink" store – the most delightful little boutique, located in a quiet street in Brooklyn. I snagged some amazing pieces there. From whimsical pink dresses perfect for evening strolls, to pastel tulle scarves with shimmering details, perfect for a ballet rehearsal or a lazy afternoon. I'm really pleased with my finds. My London wardrobe is getting a whole new look.
Then I found myself lost in the maze of vintage boutiques scattered through SoHo and Greenwich Village. It’s like a treasure hunt in there. One vintage dress store was like a time machine, with walls overflowing with retro garments from the 1950s and 60s. I picked up some divine pink feather boas that just scream "vintage glamour!" Perfect for a glamorous New York City night.
Ballet Fever at The Met
But my obsession with all things dance isn’t just confined to stages. No, I need to soak up ballet history and art as well! This week, I headed to the Met – you know, the Metropolitan Museum of Art? A truly majestic building that holds centuries of art from all corners of the world. It’s like a grand adventure into different times and cultures, with everything you could possibly want to see, from ancient Greek sculptures to Impressionist masterpieces, to stunning costumes and designs from famous theatrical shows. I even found a section dedicated to ballet history – just brilliant! It’s a place that leaves you inspired and brimming with ideas for new movements and dance forms.
Food Glorious Food
Speaking of inspirations… let's talk food! I must confess, NYC is a foodie’s paradise. It’s an explosion of flavours. Just this morning, I enjoyed a classic New York bagel with cream cheese - that delicious combo of fresh bread and tangy cheese…simply perfect. This city has an array of cuisines you won't believe.
The last night was special. My friend took me to this amazing little place that had the best pizza I’ve ever had. The thin, crisp crust, perfectly gooey cheese…it melted in my mouth. They call it the "pink pizza" because the dough has a hint of beetroot – very unique.
Later in the week, I want to visit a quaint little tea room I heard about near Central Park. Apparently, it serves the best afternoon tea in NYC. They say you get a high tea fit for royalty and the prettiest little sandwiches, pastries and of course, scones. What’s a pink tutu blogger to do but indulge?!
My New York Mission: A Tutu for Every Soul
Oh, before I go, remember my little mission? To get the whole world rocking pink tutus! So far, New York's embracing the Pink Tutu life with open arms! From dancing in the streets, to a flash mob of fellow tutu lovers near the Empire State Building (a total hoot!), to just random folks spotting me on the metro and asking me to pose with their children in my tutu! The joy in their faces when they pose alongside this fluffy, pink symbol of confidence is priceless. It’s just infectious, it’s just a mood!
And don't get me started on the Tutu Boutique in Times Square! It’s absolutely exploding with all the latest tutu creations, sparkling colours, feather-trimmed numbers… the ultimate wonderland of twirling perfection. I picked up some gorgeous gifts there for my dancers back in England, including a matching set for my younger sister – we’re going to have the most fab, matching tutus at the local Derbyshire summer festival. It'll be epic!
That's all for this week, darlings! Join me again next Monday for more Pink Tutu adventures!
P.S. Follow my adventures on Instagram @pinktutu.com ! I'm also posting stories throughout the week - come say hello!
Yours in Tutu love,
Emma
