Bonjour mes amis! It's Saturday, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu Paris post! I'm still buzzing from this week's trip, and oh my goodness, what a week it was! I travelled over on the Eurostar - my absolute favourite way to travel! It feels so glamorous, and the views across the English Channel are stunning. I even managed to squeeze in a little ballet practice in first class! (Yes, I brought my pointe shoes with me... what can I say? It's the Pink Tutu lifestyle! 😂).
Paris always makes me feel so excited, and this week was extra special because I'd planned a packed itinerary of amazing shows, incredible shopping, and, of course, some delicious French cuisine.
From The Ballet Stage To The Parisien Streets
Remember how I told you I fund my travels by performing at various ballet events? Well, this week I performed with a beautiful ballet company in Derbyshire, England. We performed a stunning rendition of Giselle. The energy was incredible! I love being on stage and bringing ballet to life for audiences. I am eternally grateful for these opportunities because it allows me to pursue my love of travel and explore the world in style.
Speaking of style, let's talk about my Parisian adventures!
Saturday Style Inspiration
After the exhilarating energy of the Giselle performance, it was straight onto the Eurostar for a little trip to the City of Lights! I just love the excitement of arriving in Paris, stepping out of Gare du Nord and feeling that special buzz of anticipation. This trip I'm channelling a classic Parisian look – a little black dress (but of course, in pink!), my favourite fluffy tutu (it's always so much fun to wear a tutu when I'm exploring a new city!), and my new pair of pink ballet flats – comfy enough to walk around the cobbled streets, but stylish enough to pop into a chic cafe for a spot of afternoon tea.
Sunday – Culture, Couture, and Croissants!
I'm a total history buff and Sunday was all about exploring some of Paris' most iconic landmarks. First up, I took a stroll along the Seine River, marveling at the Eiffel Tower. The view from the Champ de Mars is breathtaking, and I can't get over the beauty of the structure. Then it was off to the Louvre Museum. Let me tell you, I spent a good hour or two admiring the Mona Lisa. What a masterpiece! She certainly lives up to the hype! But honestly, I loved all the other paintings too. The Louvre has an incredible collection. Afterwards, I stopped for a delicious picnic lunch in the Jardin des Tuileries, soaking up the Parisian sun and taking in the beauty of the park. It was so lovely just to relax and enjoy the moment.
Speaking of beauty, who am I kidding? It was time for a bit of shopping! First stop - the Marais district for vintage and antique stores. I picked up a beautiful silk scarf for my grandma – it's going to make a wonderful Christmas present. And of course, I indulged in a little something for myself - a stunning antique mirror with a blush pink frame – my Parisian flat just needs some more glitz and glamour.
After a day of cultural delights and shopping sprees, I had a lovely picnic dinner in the Tuileries, under the Eiffel Tower, lit up with twinkling lights. It's so magical! And, naturally, it was time for a glass (or two) of delicious rosé with a plate of flaky, buttery croissants. It's my signature Parisian Sunday night – you can’t have a Pink Tutu Paris weekend without some quality croissant time!
Monday - Enchanting Entertainment
Today's highlight was definitely the show I saw at the Moulin Rouge! The Can-Can is truly an unforgettable spectacle - it's the epitome of Parisian flair, and the dazzling costumes and energy are phenomenal! It's hard to explain the atmosphere - you have to experience it for yourself to truly appreciate its magic. I even met one of the dancers after the show. It's incredible that someone so graceful and beautiful would be so down to earth. What an inspiring woman!
Later on, I took a stroll around Montmartre, one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris, full of artists' workshops, cute cafes, and incredible street art. I even got to sit in on a local artists’ open air art session and tried my hand at a quick sketch (well, I attempted, at least! - maybe I’ll post a picture if I have any skills!). I feel like Paris brings out my inner artist - from admiring masterpieces in museums to soaking in the creative energy of local artists. It's infectious!
Tuesday - Pink-Tastic Indulgence!
I always dedicate a day in Paris for exploring the beautiful fashion district, and today was all about indulging my love for pretty things! Of course, a little treat from the macaron shop Ladurée was a must, their macarons are divine, so delicate, colourful and just plain delicious. You really haven't experienced a perfect macaron until you've had one from Ladurée. They just melt in your mouth and the beautiful, brightly coloured cases make your heart soar. But enough about macarons (or not, I'll never tire of these little sugary delights!), let's talk shopping!
I visited the beautiful department stores - Printemps and Galeries Lafayette. Oh my gosh, the windows displays were like works of art! And the fashion… well, it is truly Paris, so naturally, it's incredible.
After the fashion-tastic journey around Paris, I went for a picnic lunch with my best friend in a stunning park, surrounded by the prettiest spring blossoms. And then to top it off, a leisurely evening stroll across the Alexander III Bridge and the Eiffel Tower, watching the sunset. Paris really does create the most enchanting memories.
Wednesday - From Parisian Street To Parisian Stage
For a Parisian ballerina, a day spent at a Ballet show is an absolute must. I went to a stunning ballet performance at the Palais Garnier - a performance of Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake." The Palais Garnier itself is a grand opera house, so beautiful inside with plush velvet seats and golden balconies. I could have easily watched it all day. Then after a delicious meal, I strolled down the Champs-Elysees soaking up the vibrant street culture, Parisian life and a taste of the iconic Parisian nightlife.
Thursday – Ballet and Brunch
A good breakfast can fuel a good day and with my ballet class schedule in mind, I chose the perfect cafe in the Marais for a little French brunch – and, of course, some divine, light pastries, my morning tradition on a Thursday. There's just something about croissants and a cappuccino that fuels me for a long ballet class.
Speaking of ballet class, I am so lucky to be learning from some of the best teachers in the world here in Paris. I was able to enroll in some classes in the city's best studios, it was truly amazing. They pushed me to become a better dancer. I am feeling so inspired by the talent and dedication I have seen.
Friday – More Shopping and Sipping!
Today, I enjoyed a wander around the boutiques of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and indulged in a glass (or two) of wine, with some delectable local cheeses. This Parisian tradition - cheese, wine and good conversation – is one I won’t be giving up any time soon.
Later, after my shopping adventure, I settled in for an afternoon picnic lunch by the Seine with a beautiful view of Notre-Dame.
Saturday - Back to Pink Tutu Life
Well, there you have it! It's a quick recap of my trip – how time flies when you're having fun in Paris! And now it's back to reality – a quick packing, goodbye to the Parisian charm and it's off on the Eurostar. I am looking forward to bringing the Parisian flair to my home city of Derbyshire – that's the Pink Tutu lifestyle.
Of course, I am already planning my next trip! I have to plan it properly – with my upcoming performances, it won’t be until spring! I will definitely let you know as soon as I know when my next Parisian adventure will take place, but don’t forget, Pink Tutu blog posts come every week.
So until next week – stay chic!
P.S. I know you're all wondering: where did I find this incredible pink tutu? It's a custom-made piece, crafted just for me by a lovely local designer, and, as all my faithful followers know, a pink tutu is just what every Parisian girl needs to embrace her feminine side. If you're thinking of trying it, go for it! Embrace the Pink Tutu life! I can't wait to see you all rocking a pink tutu too!
Don't forget to check out the www.pink-tutu.com website for new blog posts, style inspiration and a chance to win exclusive Pink Tutu prizes. Until next time! xx.
