Bonjour, mes chers amis!
Can you believe it's already post number 700? It feels like just yesterday I was hopping onto the EuroStar with my trusty pink tutu suitcase in tow, ready to explore the world of fashion, dance, and all things pink! But time flies when you're living your best life, right? And this week, that best life has landed me in the magical city of Paris, the ultimate destination for a ballerina who loves a little joie de vivre!
Whizzing to Paris with the EuroStar
Letās rewind to the journey, shall we? It wouldnāt be a #PinkTutuBlogParis post without mentioning the legendary EuroStar. That smooth, comfortable glide, the beautiful views as you journey through the countryside, and the chance to admire my fellow passengers ā I just love it! Plus, letās face it, arriving in the heart of Paris by train just feels so chic.
This time, Iām wearing my most recent custom-made pink tutu ā itās got delicate swirls of blush pink and silver sequins, and I think it really encapsulates the elegance and romance of the city. Youāll have to wait for a full blog post on it later though!
A Little Parisian Fashion Indulgence
I simply canāt be in Paris without spending at least a day indulging my inner fashionista. I love exploring the small independent boutiques in Le Marais, the bustling department stores like Galeries Lafayette, and of course, the beautiful vintage shops tucked away in the backstreets. You never know what hidden gems you'll find, like that stunning vintage Dior dress I scored last week, or a pair of killer pink-hued pumps (gotta love the pink, darling!).
I was so excited to discover this beautiful silk scarf with a delicate ballerina print in a little shop near the Louvre. It's a must-have for any Parisian outfit! I think I'll pair it with my favourite pair of white ballet shoes and my light pink tweed jacket for a classic look.
A Day at the OpƩra Garnier
My Paris trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to the breathtaking OpĆ©ra Garnier. Just the architecture is a masterpiece! It's one of the most impressive opera houses in the world, and it really fills you with that dramatic Parisian flair. Today's show, āLa Traviataā, was simply sensational. The passion, the costumes, the incredible performance ā everything about it made me want to run straight back to the dance studio and practice till Iām exhausted.
Speaking of practice, I've already booked myself in for a few classes at a prestigious ballet studio in the heart of the city. Imagine, dancing under the Eiffel Tower! Just thinking about it sends shivers down my spine! (I might even squeeze in a lesson in the ballet style unique to Paris called āOpĆ©ra de Parisā, though they do say it's challenging! I love a good challenge though!)
Enjoying the Simplicity of Paris
But itās not all tutus and theatre in Paris, you know. Sometimes, you just need to embrace the simple pleasures of this magical city. This morning, I treated myself to a leisurely breakfast at a quaint little cafĆ© on a quiet cobbled street. Croissants, coffee, a perfect baguette ā pure bliss! There's something so charming about watching the locals going about their day while enjoying a good cuppa and a pastry. Itās a way of life that I try to embrace as much as possible.
Of course, no Parisian adventure is complete without a stroll along the Seine. Thereās just something special about wandering under the Eiffel Tower and soaking up the atmosphere. I even bought a little pink tutu for the Parisian pigeons to wear! (Letās just say they were less than thrilled. Iām starting to think the whole āget everyone in a pink tutuā mission is harder than I thought!)
Ballet Bliss and Evening Delights
Later on today, I'm headed to the Grand Palais to watch a modern ballet show by the internationally acclaimed Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo. I love watching these modern ballets, seeing how artists push the boundaries of ballet and combine dance with theatre and other forms of performance art.
And of course, no Paris evening is complete without a fabulous dinner. This weekend, I'm enjoying the best steak tartare and a delicious bottle of wine in the most chic bistro near the Arc de Triomphe.
It truly is the city of lights ā twinkling on the Eiffel Tower, in shop windows, reflecting off the Seineā¦ Even my pink tutu shimmers in the Parisian night. Iām thinking of putting together a special pink tutu fashion show under the Eiffel Tower next month. Imagine the gorgeous views!
Paris Calling
This week in Paris, Iāve been taking it all in, soaking up the romance and magic. I'm truly grateful to be able to experience all these amazing things thanks to the work I put into my ballet career, both onstage and in the studio. Itās been an unforgettable experience, one that reminds me of why I always come back to this incredible city again and again. Until next week, remember ā life is short, so wear a pink tutu!
Love always, Emma x
