#PinkTutuBlogParis - Saturday 2010-07-10 Exploring Paris

Bonjour from Paris, my darlings! It's Saturday, the sun is shining, and Emma's in Paris! Oh là là, it's like a dream come true. The air is filled with the delicious scent of pastries and the rhythmic click-clack of Parisian heels against the cobblestones. This city truly does have a magic all of its own.

This week, I took the Eurostar for a whirlwind weekend adventure – it was simply the most fabulous way to arrive in style. From the plush, pink seats to the crisp champagne and delightful continental breakfast, it was pure luxury. Plus, no tedious airport queues, just the romance of gliding through the Channel Tunnel to arrive in this incredible city.

And, of course, my trusty pink tutu was my travel companion! It added a touch of sparkle to my journey and elicited smiles from fellow passengers. You know me, I can’t resist a little bit of pink to make any occasion special.

This week's blog is all about Parisian charm, balletic beauty, and discovering those hidden treasures the city holds. So grab a croissant and join me on a sartorial stroll through the City of Lights.

Friday night saw me at the Palais Garnier, home to the exquisite Paris Opera Ballet. What a magnificent building! Just imagine, a magnificent Beaux-Arts structure filled with intricate carvings and gleaming gold chandeliers. I was completely mesmerized as I sat down and the orchestra started playing – it was pure magic!

The performance, a masterful rendition of Giselle, transported me to another world. The grace and elegance of the dancers was truly captivating. Every twirl, every leap, every graceful gesture – perfection! I sat with a grin on my face, mesmerized by the passion and talent. It was a night that filled me with inspiration, and of course, reminded me why I love the magic of ballet.

Afterwards, I took a little wander around the charming Parisian streets. They were still buzzing with life, even though the main shows were over. The delicious smell of warm bread, the soft lighting of the streetlamps, the cheerful chatter of the locals - all of it combined to create a truly captivating ambiance. I couldn’t help but capture a few memories with my phone and a cheeky Instagram story or two!

You all know me - I can’t resist a bit of shopping! And Paris, oh my Paris, is a shopper’s paradise!

Saturday morning was all about finding a few hidden gems amongst the countless boutiques, antique shops and vintage stores on rue de Rivoli and Rue Saint Honoré. I picked up a few beautiful vintage hats, a pair of exquisite lace gloves, and a pair of dazzling earrings that reminded me of the sparkle of a ballerina’s shoes. Of course, I couldn't resist indulging in a delicate scarf and a gorgeous pair of leather gloves to add a touch of Parisian chic to my wardrobe.

Let’s be honest, shopping and ballet have to go hand in hand, don’t you think? There’s a certain sophistication, an art, to selecting just the right outfit for any occasion - be it a grand evening performance or a casual daytime stroll. And, speaking of which… my trusty pink tutu always accompanies me, naturally. Even when it’s tucked away inside my handbag, ready to unleash its magic when needed!

I'm actually planning a blog post on how to style a pink tutu for different occasions - watch this space!

Saturday afternoon was spent at the gorgeous Tuileries Garden, right by the Louvre. It's a Parisian oasis of calm – an elegant retreat from the bustle of the city. Think vibrant flowerbeds, serene ponds, statues galore, and children laughing as they chase each other through the pathways. It's a perfect place to escape for a little peaceful contemplation.

My darling Mum surprised me with a delicious picnic lunch - the kind with crusty bread, French cheeses, cold cuts, and of course, a delightful bottle of bubbly - a quintessential Parisian picnic experience. And of course, we shared a slice of raspberry tart - my personal Parisian treat!

This was pure bliss, taking a break from the city with my lovely mum - a perfect afternoon to soak in the atmosphere of this incredible city.

Today’s my final day in this Parisian fairytale. It was time for another scenic Eurostar journey back to Derbyshire, filled with more champagne and delicious French pastries, which, honestly, never goes amiss. I’ve captured a multitude of Parisian memories to cherish forever - from those sparkling dance performances, the hidden boutiques I discovered, the delightful picnic in the Tuileries Gardens, to that charming and romantic street scene. It was like a balletic dream!

And it’s got me thinking - maybe I should set up my pink tutu and do a special pop-up performance during the Nottinghamshire County Show? Just a thought.

Now I’m home in England, and already planning my next Parisian escapade, already counting the days to my return. Perhaps the ballet season is the perfect time for another visit. Until then, I will continue spreading my message of pink tutu positivity, and dreaming of the next beautiful Parisian adventure.

Au revoir from Paris, my darlings. Stay sparkling!

Love, Emma

xxx

P.S Have you caught the newest issue of "Dance Today"? I got featured on page 44 - the article's all about finding your perfect ballet inspiration. Let me know what you think! I'm always excited to hear your thoughts!

P.P.S Head to my blog - www.pink-tutu.com - to find more pink tutu adventures and a full review of the ballet and Parisian shop I found.