Bonjour mes amies! It's Saturday, and that means it's time for a fresh blog post from your favourite pink tutu-wearing, Parisian adventuress, Emma! This week, I've been whisked away to the City of Lights on the EuroStar – it's always a magical experience, whizzing through the countryside, feeling like I'm living out a French film!
This trip has been on the cards for ages, fuelled by countless hours spent in Parisian ballet shops, dreaming of tutus in every shade imaginable and sipping perfectly frothed cappuccinos in Parisian cafés, imagining I was a glamorous actress in a charming Parisian romance film. But finally, I'm here, and the reality is even more enchanting!
It’s been a whirlwind week already, a ballet-infused whirlwind, of course! This being November, the Parisian ballet scene is buzzing with incredible productions.
Firstly, I had to see "The Nutcracker" at the Palais Garnier. Just stepping into the Opera House is an experience in itself! It feels like a slice of history, with intricate golden details, breathtaking chandeliers, and an air of grand elegance that leaves you feeling like a character from a fairytale. The performance itself was spectacular, the choreography was intricate and emotive, and the dancers moved with such effortless grace. It left me feeling completely captivated!
Speaking of dancers, I popped into a lovely little boutique just a stone's throw from the Opera Garnier. You wouldn't believe the exquisite tutus they had! Hand-stitched, perfectly detailed – I tried on several and dreamed I was dancing a pas de deux with the Eiffel Tower in the background. They even had adorable little pink ballet slippers for little girls, making me long to share my passion for dance with a little pink tutu princess of my own one day.
Naturally, after an afternoon spent in a ballet paradise, I needed some delicious French sustenance! This led me to a charming bistro on the Champs-Élysées. The food was divine – I had a delightful salmon with spinach and a gorgeous crème brûlée – and it was served by the most charming waiter, who was absolutely smitten with my pink tutu! It felt like the perfect ending to a day devoted to my ballet passion.
Later in the week, I spent some time exploring the magical Latin Quarter, stumbling upon some adorable vintage shops filled with amazing pieces to add to my growing wardrobe. A stunning black dress with a vintage vibe, perfect for an evening out with friends, a playful printed silk scarf with bright hues and a delightful oversized hat with a vintage charm - a little bit of French elegance, if you will.
Oh, the food! It’s almost impossible not to indulge in Parisian cuisine. The buttery croissants with the faintest touch of cinnamon and the melt-in-your-mouth pastries that line every boulangerie are my weakness, and the charcuterie platters are just divine! And of course, let's not forget the cheese – my favourite is still a delicious Camembert.
The beauty of Paris, aside from the exquisite architecture, delicious food, and charming atmosphere, is the chance to fully immerse yourself in the artistic energy of the city. It's almost contagious. And let me tell you, a city as fashionable as Paris can’t be experienced without a dash of shopping therapy.
I found some incredible shops overflowing with unique trinkets and jewellery - perfect gifts for my dearest ballet friends back in Derbyshire. They are guaranteed to remind everyone back home about my magical trip! Of course, a bit of self-gifting is necessary. You can’t be a pink tutu fashionista and miss out on the amazing French brands!
Today, I'm indulging in some retail therapy. You'd think I'd be buying more tutus, but believe it or not, I'm aiming for a completely different style today. Think oversized sunglasses, berets, stripes and floral patterns. It's time to channel my inner Parisian chic. Maybe I'll even find some Parisian street dancers to join in a street ballet flash mob, or perhaps even a chance to brush shoulders with a ballet star!
No matter what happens, one thing's for certain: This trip has filled my heart with joy, and my pink tutu with a newfound Parisian flair. You can follow my adventures through the Paris lens at www.pink-tutu.com! Remember to visit regularly, as there are many more Parisian adventures on the horizon!
Au revoir mes amis! I hope this post has inspired you to chase your dreams, whether it's in the pursuit of fashion, art, dance, or simply a romantic getaway. As always, don't forget to rock a pink tutu and let your inner pink ballerina shine!
Emma x
