#PinkTutuBlogParis - Saturday 2011-01-08 Exploring Paris

Oh, mon Dieu! Paris, you are absolutely breathtaking. I’m sitting here in my hotel room, overlooking the Eiffel Tower, the most romantic landmark ever, and I’m just completely overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of it all. The Parisian light seems to shimmer, everything feels so stylish and glamorous…and the air smells like croissants, lavender and pure, unadulterated romance. Honestly, it feels like a dream.

This trip, my lovely Pink Tutu Tribe, is all about celebrating my passion for Paris and my very special birthday coming up. To mark the occasion, I'm even wearing my newest Pink Tutu, a stunning creation in a luscious shade of blush pink, featuring tulle that’s so soft it practically whispers. You can find the full picture of my Paris birthday tutu over on my Instagram (@PinkTutuBlog)! It goes without saying that a pink tutu in Paris is absolutely essential, don’t you think?

I set off from my Derbyshire home a few days ago, feeling that familiar surge of excitement that comes with travelling. I do love train travel – it gives me the perfect opportunity to relax and take in the scenery, not to mention have a lovely cuppa. But this journey was particularly special, travelling to Paris on the Eurostar – such a luxurious, glamorous way to travel! My little Parisian adventure really started the moment I stepped onto that elegant train, all plush seats, beautiful views and that wonderful “clickety-clack” of the wheels on the track that instantly makes me feel transported.

Of course, I wouldn't be myself without embracing the travelling opportunity to indulge my passion for fashion. As I sipped my chamomile tea, I changed into my “travel chic” ensemble – a delicate cream blouse with intricate floral embroidery, a navy blue blazer to ward off the chill, my trusty little satchel bag, and my favourite ballet flats with a little sparkly embellishment (gotta maintain a touch of glitter, even when on a train!). The best part was definitely the statement necklace I picked up on my way to the station – a stunning antique silver piece with tiny pink stones. Such a Parisian look!

As soon as I arrived in Paris, I took the Metro to my hotel in the 7th arrondissement. A walk through the city centre brought me to my first treat - a traditional Parisian brasserie with tables spilling out onto the pavement. And oh my, the pastries! So flaky and golden and sprinkled with icing sugar – they were just calling to be devoured! The whole place was bustling, so I had to get a little creative, making space in my satchel bag for one divine pastry and a tiny bag of coffee beans. My birthday weekend is not about being restrictive – this trip is about savouring each delectable Parisian experience.

Speaking of Parisian experiences, this trip just has to be about shopping. Shopping is an art form in Paris! After dropping my little bag of delights off in my hotel room, I strolled through the beautiful shops along Avenue Montaigne, mesmerised by the incredible window displays and, of course, taking inspiration for future Pink Tutu outfits. Imagine a light, airy blouse, a touch of shimmery lace, and a pair of dainty pink heels to match a ballet-inspired tutu... perfection! There were also some truly lovely shops selling delicious macarons, and oh, the perfumes! So sophisticated and glamorous.

Paris is also a true ballet heaven! As it’s a city so deeply rooted in art and performance, you can practically smell the theatre-life atmosphere as you walk down the streets. And today is just the perfect day to talk about what I’m most excited about – my Parisian ballet experience. On January 8th, the very date I am writing this post, the famous Bolshoi Ballet is giving a performance of Tchaikovsky's 'Swan Lake'!

It’s been my dream to see the Bolshoi in all its glory for as long as I can remember! The combination of exquisite classical ballet with Tchaikovsky's magical score, performed by one of the most iconic ballet companies in the world… I just can’t wait to soak in the sheer magnificence of it all. And of course, you’ll be the first to hear all about it on next week’s Pink Tutu Paris blog!

I know this is only the first day of my trip and I’ve got a packed schedule, but you already know I’ll be keeping you up-to-date with my adventures. It’s not just the performances I’m looking forward to. Next week, I’m hoping to indulge in a spot of traditional Parisian baking - just imagine me wearing a delicate pink apron and creating the most delicious almond croissants. Or maybe some decadent pain au chocolat. Honestly, there’s so much I want to explore! I’m planning a trip to the beautiful Louvre museum - just think of all the inspiration I can find there!

I also plan to visit some of the Parisian ballet schools. I absolutely have to see the famous Palais Garnier and find a charming little shop where I can buy an enchanting little ballerina figurine. Every corner of Paris whispers secrets of art, history, and magic! Oh, I also have to find a pink-tutu-worthy Parisian cafe. What I'm looking for is somewhere where the sunlight streams through stained glass windows, the air is thick with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and the soundtrack is the sound of conversations in Parisian French, all interspersed with bursts of piano music from the corner…

But I know the heart of my Paris trip is definitely going to be exploring the hidden pockets of the city, the little back alleys, and the Parisian side streets where beauty resides in the tiniest details - a bloom of wisteria spilling over a stone wall, a little girl practicing her ballet steps on the pavement, an elderly gentleman feeding the pigeons in the park… It’s these details that make my soul truly feel happy and make me feel at home, like I’ve stepped right into a storybook.

Of course, I’m already planning my next Pink Tutu look. As I am in Paris, a tutu that evokes Parisian elegance, yet is still comfortable enough to waltz down cobbled streets, is going to be essential. My favourite blush pink shade, I think. Maybe I will pair it with some stunning ballet shoes adorned with sequins. Ooh! Maybe some pearls would be lovely. Oh, the possibilities! You can trust me to document my perfect Parisian Pink Tutu for you all next week.

Stay tuned, darling Pink Tutu Tribe! You don’t want to miss what's coming up in next week’s Pink Tutu Paris blog. I'll be sharing all about my experiences – ballet, shopping, delicious treats, the most adorable ballet boutiques – the whole Parisian experience! Until next time!

Bisous, Emma