Hello, darling dears! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing ballerina blogger, Emma, checking in from the City of Lights! 🇫🇷 ✨ I just had to pop in with an update about my trip to Paris, because this place is just magical. The moment I stepped off the Eurostar at Gare du Nord and took in the Parisian air, I knew this trip was going to be full of fashion, fun, and fabulous tutus! 🩰
You know me, always up for a challenge, so this time, my mission was to spread the love of the pink tutu far and wide! Pink tutus in Paris? It's certainly an idea, isn't it?
This week's Parisian adventures have already been packed full of fabulous finds and fantastic shows! Oh, and don't even get me started on the fashion. My suitcase might burst with the sheer volume of gorgeous garments I've picked up, but who's complaining? 😉
Let's rewind back to the beginning, shall we?
Thursday morning dawned, a little brisk but oh-so-chic, and I hopped aboard the Eurostar in Derbyshire. Of course, I wouldn't dare be seen without a dash of Parisian flair, so I chose a pale pink knitted jumper (courtesy of my recent London shopping spree!), a cream-coloured vintage coat, and a touch of pink in the form of my favourite pair of pink satin ballet slippers. And, wouldn't you know it, the perfect accessory was, naturally, my pink tulle tutu! The journey was blissful - just me, the Parisian countryside flashing by, a book about French Impressionists, and a cheeky glass of French rose.
Arriving in the City of Lights:
By late afternoon, the iconic Parisian cityscape started to unfurl before my eyes. That unmistakable aroma of Parisian bread filled the air as I strolled into my quaint hotel room. Now, my lovely readers, let me tell you, this room was beyond gorgeous! Soft French pastels, delicate floral wallpaper, a lace tablecloth on the writing desk - it truly felt like stepping out of a Parisian romance novel.
First Stop: Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica
After unpacking and a quick freshen-up, I headed to the bohemian heart of Paris - Montmartre. Imagine cobbled streets winding their way up the hill, overflowing with vibrant cafes, quaint boutiques, and street art. It was like walking through a postcard come to life. The energy of the artists and performers in the Place du Tertre was contagious, and I couldn't resist sketching a few of the stunning Parisian views myself. You'll have to keep an eye on my Instagram feed to see those lovely Parisian sketches!
And then, the magnificent Sacré-Coeur Basilica stood tall against the evening sky. Imagine, pure white stone glittering in the setting sun, with views overlooking the whole city! As I stepped inside the Basilica, the ornate stained glass windows shimmered and a sense of awe washed over me. I even heard whispers about hidden secrets inside, but you'll have to ask your friendly neighbourhood historian to learn more about that!
A touch of ballet magic at the Opéra Garnier:
Friday was a day for culture and a dash of ballet magic. It wouldn't be a Paris trip for me without experiencing the iconic Palais Garnier. Let's just say the opulence almost left me speechless. It's not just a theatre; it's a masterpiece. The gold embellishments, the ornate ceilings, the beautiful theatre itself - it was straight out of a dream!
The pièce de résistance was the evening ballet performance. Watching the graceful dancers on stage was captivating, even for someone who has seen their fair share of ballet shows! The exquisite costumes and choreography combined with the dramatic lighting made it a performance I'll never forget. It’s easy to see why they call it the "Belle Epoque". This truly is Paris, at its most glamorous.
Saturday - A day for shopping, treats and style
Which brings us to today, a sunny Saturday and a day for shopping! You know how much I love to explore hidden gems and stumble upon unique treasures. This morning started with a delicious breakfast at a little café just a few blocks from my hotel, complete with croissants that tasted like little puffs of heaven, and strong, black coffee that set me up for the day. I must say, the Parisians have an art to making croissants that I must learn! 🥐
And then, I dove into the maze of the Marais district. Oh my, you won’t believe the fashion discoveries I made. Think vintage lace dresses, bold, beautiful prints, and a little Parisian boutique overflowing with vibrant pink and a truly magnificent collection of the most fabulous, extravagant tutus you can imagine. Honestly, dear readers, my wallet wept but my heart rejoiced. I must have spent over an hour browsing. (And I promise I will share more about this incredible boutique in an upcoming blog post!)
More Shopping at Galeries Lafayette:
The afternoon was a Parisian pilgrimage: Galeries Lafayette. Have you been? The architecture is truly breathtaking - with an elegant glass dome, breathtaking stained-glass windows, and Parisian grandeur that puts it on another level! Honestly, it's like stepping into a dreamland. And as much as I wanted to fill my basket with Parisian delights, I kept remembering my mission, and so I carefully chose just one, single perfectly-shaped pink beret.
Dinner - French food and joie de vivre!
The end of a long, fulfilling shopping spree demanded a French-themed supper! This evening, I went for an intimate dinner at a small bistro close to the Seine River. The menu? An authentic boeuf bourguignon - and I have to admit, it was the perfect conclusion to a wonderful day. I love experiencing a city through its food. And, well, you know me. Even eating boeu bourguignon in Paris wasn't complete without a touch of Parisian whimsy - a small pink tulle ribbon woven into my bun and a delicate pink bow on my wine glass. Because every day is a day to celebrate the beauty of life.
Paris - my second home?
Paris is truly captivating. I feel a sense of joy, inspiration, and even a little bit of nostalgia when I’m here. It's not just the sights and the sounds, but also the rhythm of life. And honestly? You might see me coming back for more of these experiences. This weekend has certainly solidified my belief that this city is not just a city; it’s a feeling. Paris - the city of love, of elegance, of inspiration. This is a city I could never get enough of.
Until next week, dear readers, au revoir!
Yours in pink, Emma 💖
P.S. Did I mention I am adding another tutu to my collection? Because let's face it, you can't go wrong with a little extra pink. Stay tuned!
www.pink-tutu.com
