Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina, Emma, back from another fabulous adventure in the Big Apple! This week’s post is bursting with pink, glitter, and all things NYC, so get ready to twirl with me!
I've just touched down back in Derbyshire, but my mind is still whirling with the whirlwind of excitement that was my New York trip! I think it's safe to say, you just can't beat New York City.
This time, my travels were extra special, as I was whisked away by a flurry of pink-hued opportunities - and, as you all know, where there's pink, you’ll find me! I managed to squeeze in some time for ballet, a couple of fabulous shows (one even had a tutu in it!), and oh, the shopping! (You know me and my penchant for a good sale!)
Before I dive into the glitzy details, let’s get right to the reason I'm writing this blog at all - my mission to inspire the world to embrace the magic of pink tutus! It's not just a piece of clothing; it's a statement! It's a way to express yourself, to celebrate joy, and to show the world that you're not afraid to stand out!
Now, without further ado, let me transport you right to the heart of New York, to the most wonderful places in the city.
Thursday - The Thrill of the Big Apple!
I arrived at JFK after a long but very comfortable flight. My travel tip: Pack a little cashmere cardigan to keep those evening chills at bay – even when you're twirling in your tutu, you still want to be comfy!
After collecting my luggage and navigating my way to the Metro station - my absolute favourite way to travel in the city - I headed to my apartment, a cosy little pied-à-terre near Central Park. You’ll be surprised by the size of the places you can find in New York, and you don't have to sacrifice character.
Before unpacking (tutu first, obviously!), I went straight to my local bodega (the American equivalent of a corner shop) to stock up on supplies - and naturally, I couldn't resist trying a couple of delicious slices of New York pizza. Then, I hit the streets, all dolled up in my bright pink tutu with matching feathered boa (a touch of New York glam never hurt anyone!) I found myself surrounded by the bustling energy of the city and couldn't help but get swept away.
The air was filled with the cacophony of car horns, chattering crowds, and the melodic sounds of street performers. Everywhere I looked, I was enthralled - from the sleek skyscrapers piercing the sky to the iconic yellow cabs darting about.
It felt like a scene straight out of a Broadway show, and I had the lead role! The sheer energy was contagious, and I felt like I could dance the night away.
Friday - Ballet and Glitter in Midtown
This morning, I had to channel my inner ballerina - my favourite activity on my NYC trips. My trusty ballet shoes were dusted off and ready for action at the American Ballet Theatre. The studio was buzzing with energy as dancers warmed up.
We were focusing on improving our flexibility and strengthening our core, and it was a fantastic session. It’s important to keep pushing your limits as a dancer - you can never be satisfied with your progress! Every time I step onto a stage, whether it’s in my home county of Derbyshire or in New York, I strive for that perfect pirouette or a soaring leap. And believe me, every one of those takes countless hours of dedication.
I spent the evening catching a performance at the Broadway Theatre. I’m not sure what I was expecting, but when I heard that there was going to be a special cameo by a pink tutu – it just seemed too good to miss! The entire production was filled with stunning visuals, the costumes were breathtaking (pink tutu or not!), and the whole experience was pure magic. As soon as the lights dimmed, I was transported to another world. Oh, and let’s not forget the magnificent performance - each and every dancer on stage made my heart soar!
And, of course, it was a brilliant way to top off a fantastic day.
Saturday - Bloomingdale’s and Beyond
A shopping spree on a Saturday in NYC is a rite of passage, so of course, I took myself on a pilgrimage to my favourite store, Bloomingdale’s! You know me - I always find a new accessory to add to my growing collection - and this trip was no different. They had a fantastic collection of headbands and earrings, all glittering with dazzling stones, which will perfectly compliment a tutu. And that reminds me – I must tell you about a fantastic discovery in a little independent boutique in the West Village…
It's not always about finding big designer names and luxury brands. There’s something truly satisfying about finding that unique piece you know no one else will have - a beautiful handcrafted beaded bag in vibrant pink or a stunning emerald green sequined jacket. The shopkeeper was a delight and so knowledgeable - her advice on finding the perfect piece that complements your tutu was invaluable.
Afterward, I strolled through the streets of the Upper West Side, feeling the vibrancy of the city seeping into my soul. I sat in a charming cafe enjoying a steaming cappuccino while sketching in my diary – after all, inspiration comes from the most unexpected places.
I popped into the Metropolitan Museum of Art, not just for the art, but for the tutu. This time, however, it was not in my colour pink but in an ethereal pale lavender - the exquisite craftsmanship and the beauty of this piece blew me away.
It was truly a piece of art in itself!
And, let’s be honest – a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must when you’re in the Big Apple. A trip to the Met makes me think of how lucky I am to be able to live out my dreams as a professional ballet dancer. I was still a small child when I first danced on a stage, with all my joy, energy, and pure tutu passion radiating throughout the theatre! And here I am, many years later, travelling the world with nothing more than a tutu in my bag (well, and a whole wardrobe full of shoes!).
Sunday - Back in London!
I must confess that Sunday arrived all too quickly. My last full day was a blast – a vibrant walk around Soho - a haven of independent boutiques and restaurants that always has me smiling – and some sightseeing from the iconic Empire State Building.
With a tinge of melancholy and a smile, I stepped onto a bustling Times Square (always my favourite last place to visit in NYC). A quick last pizza fix for the road (this is an absolute must after every NYC trip), a long farewell gaze across the glittering skyline - and finally it was time for a long night's sleep on the plane back home!
And just like that, my time in New York came to an end. But don't worry, darlings, I'll be back! My New York dreams always seem to inspire more - whether it's for my next ballet performance, my next blog post, or simply the perfect pink tutu!
I hope my blog has transported you right here with me to the heart of NYC. And of course, if you love pink and you’re absolutely in love with the twirling glory of the pink tutu, I want to hear all about it. Send your tutu-tastic photos to me, @pinktutu.com!
Until next week!
Stay Fabulous, Emma
