Hello darling readers! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-wearing ballerina, Emma, here, and I’m thrilled to announce that I’m finally in Paris!
I've dreamt of coming to Paris ever since I first saw photos of the Eiffel Tower as a little girl, and it feels truly magical to finally be here! You know I just have to visit every capital city in the world and get that picture of me doing a perfect fouetté on each one. My ultimate goal is, of course, to spread the pink tutu love far and wide - every corner of the globe must embrace the joy and power of this delightful garment!
I hopped aboard the Eurostar this week and journeyed from Derbyshire straight to the City of Lights. Honestly, it’s amazing how a train journey can whisk you away to another world! As usual, I made sure my trusty tutu travelled with me. Nothing beats a good twirl as you speed through the French countryside!
Speaking of twirling, did I tell you I'm going to see Sleeping Beauty at the Palais Garnier on Monday?! I can barely contain my excitement! I absolutely adore the romantic storyline and the opulent music, and I just know it's going to be incredible!
Parisian Dream Start:
This week I'm going to be exploring Paris, doing loads of ballet and exploring fashion and food. The ultimate Pink Tutu experience, if you will! I know I'll have some wonderful stories for you in the next post.
Right, enough talking – let’s dive into this week’s highlights!
Day 1: Arrival, Tea and Tutu Shop Dreams!
Oh my goodness, the moment my train arrived at Gare du Nord, it was like stepping into a magical movie set. I couldn't help but smile as I gazed at the bustling streets, filled with cobblestones and charming cafes. You really get that romantic, historic feel as soon as you set foot in the city.
I made a beeline to my hotel, which was the absolute picture of Parisian chic. The walls were lined with gorgeous artworks, the rooms were so stylish and the beds were... well, they were the comfiest I've ever experienced. I settled in, put on some soothing French music and tried to fight off jet lag.
Once I had rested a little, I decided to treat myself to an afternoon of Parisian delights – hot chocolate at a cafe on the Champs-Élysées, and a bit of shopping.
This brought me to a gorgeous shop, a little treasure trove called L'Atelier de la Ballerine tucked away on a side street. The shop window was just overflowing with all sorts of stunning dancewear and accessories. Imagine… elegant pink tutus, sequined leotards and shimmering ballet shoes! I spent at least an hour there, admiring the fabrics and swooning over all the tutus. I just had to treat myself, you know, a lovely pink tulle ballerina skirt - very sophisticated.
Later in the evening, I had a romantic, delicious dinner with the best view of the Eiffel Tower I've ever seen. Honestly, I was simply giddy with delight as I gazed up at the iconic tower all lit up with twinkling lights. I think this moment will stay with me forever. It was almost as beautiful as my first sight of the city in the daylight.
Day 2: Parisian Street Style and an Opera House
Yesterday was all about soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The streets are a real feast for the senses: elegant cafes, boutiques filled with exquisite designs, flower sellers with bouquets in a myriad of vibrant colors… it was absolutely intoxicating.
I spotted so many fabulously stylish women – everyone looked utterly chic and effortlessly put together. They have an effortless je ne sais quoi that’s simply inspiring. But you know me - I can’t go past a window without a quick peek! It’s important for me to be fashionably informed.
The day’s highlights included strolling along the Seine River, a romantic walk through the Jardin du Luxembourg with its beautiful fountains and flowers and admiring the exquisite architecture at the Palais Garnier. It's just magnificent! Imagine having your ballet class in that magnificent setting! I was definitely tempted to waltz through the hallways myself. The tour I took around the opera house was full of stories about famous operas and the lives of the artists who made it all happen.
I even discovered a little tucked-away café with the most exquisite cakes. I sampled a little patisserie masterpiece called a religieuse. Have you tried it? The layers of light, airy pastry filled with rich cream... I tell you, it was heaven on a plate! Paris is just made for spoiling yourself with the little treats in life! And all of this has to be paired with a great cup of Parisian cafe! I’ve fallen in love with it already, as much as a London girl ever could!
Day 3: Montmartre Magic and A Ballet Lesson
Today I went to explore the famous neighbourhood of Montmartre. There’s a reason they call it "the artists' district." It's full of quirky, independent shops and galleries that are like a wonderland of colour, textures, and artistic creations. The atmosphere was incredibly lively, with street performers, artists displaying their work and everyone enjoying the sun and the open-air vibe. I wandered through cobbled lanes, up steep stairs and enjoyed the lively bohemian spirit.
In the evening, I put my ballet shoes back on and finally visited the famous Opera Garnier for a class at the Ecole de Danse.
Let me tell you, my dancing was absolutely phenomenal! (Of course, I'm being completely humble about that…) It was such an exhilarating experience. I truly felt like I was on top of the world! It was also fantastic to get a peek into a Parisian ballet class. What's more inspiring than dancing amongst other students of ballet, feeling a true camaraderie of dancers. And, of course, a little pink tutu helps everyone feel at home in the studio!
Day 4: The Magic of the Louvre
Today I got to spend the day immersed in art at the iconic Louvre museum. Of course, you know that my visit had to include the magnificent Mona Lisa, as well as a dance through the halls admiring the famous statues! Who wouldn’t love to pose amongst sculptures as beautiful as that?! But it was actually the breathtaking paintings that I really found captivating, with the incredible textures and colours on display. It's the most immersive and breathtaking art museum I've been to yet. It's also huge! There's more to explore than just the Mona Lisa, though I must admit, her smile was just mesmerizing!
Day 5: The City of Lights At Night
In the evenings, I'm always exploring! The city truly comes alive after dark. Imagine twirling through the glittering lights as the city twinkles and glitters around you. It’s simply magical! It’s also when you see the Parisian side come out. It’s the side that's filled with twinkling fairy lights and buzzing with the sounds of live music.
The best moment so far has to be getting a glimpse of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica from the top of Montmartre at dusk. Seeing the city light up with twinkling golden lights – and dancing at the very top of the hill with my favourite ballerina outfit on, truly made my trip.
You know me! I can't come to Paris without bringing a touch of my pink tutu love! It just has to happen. That’s why I’ve decided to go on a mini mission: to spread the joy of the pink tutu throughout the city! Imagine everyone wearing this joyful accessory and twirling down the Parisian streets… wouldn’t that be a truly beautiful sight?
Of course, there's more to Paris than just dancing and sightseeing – but it’s safe to say, the Pink Tutu Blog has got my tutu-tastic Parisian agenda filled with delights. Don't worry – you can follow along on my pink tutu journey, as always, on Instagram @EmmaPinkTutu!
Now, my lovelies, let me go and prepare for another amazing day filled with more fashion, delicious food, and hopefully more beautiful, balletic adventures. Keep those pink tutu dreams alive!
