#PinkTutuBlogParis - Saturday 2018-07-28 Exploring Paris

Hello lovelies!

It's Emma, your resident pink tutu-clad ballerina, and this week I'm writing to you from the most magical city on earth: Paris!

The moment the Eurostar pulled into Gare du Nord, I was swept up in a whirlwind of romance and charm. Just the air in this city makes you feel like you're floating on a cloud of dreams - and the smell of fresh croissants and Parisian perfume definitely helps!

For those who haven't experienced the wonder of a Eurostar journey, I urge you to give it a go. There's something utterly luxurious about whizzing through the English countryside and then seeing the beautiful French landscape unfolding before you - and the excitement of travelling at speeds that feel like they're close to sonic booms!

But enough about my travels! Let me tell you all about this week's adventure in Paris, where pink tutus, dazzling shows, and the latest fashion trends collided in a kaleidoscope of beauty and inspiration.

First stop on my Parisian itinerary was a visit to the breathtaking Palais Garnier - or as you lovely folk know it, the Opera Garnier! You all know I adore a good opera performance, but honestly, even just walking through the majestic corridors of the building is enough to leave you feeling utterly starstruck.

With its elaborate décor, incredible ceiling frescoes, and dramatic staircases, it truly felt like I'd stepped onto a stage! It’s not just about the beauty of the building itself though. The entire theatre is built with such meticulous care, you really do feel a sense of history. Every little detail, from the intricate carvings on the doors to the opulent chandeliers, was painstakingly designed and crafted with love and passion - all dedicated to the joy of performing and experiencing music.

But there's one thing that I find more wondrous than the entire building itself. That would be the fact that people come to experience a production, and in many cases, the opera is only one aspect. They’re looking to be immersed in something extraordinary. A shared cultural experience - and you know what else? People wear beautiful dresses! This means of course, I could totally pull off my pink tutu there without a single side-eye (I mean, not a disapproving side-eye anyway - lots of stares, I’m sure!)

Of course, a ballerina can't resist a dance opportunity. There’s no better way to pay homage to such a beautiful location, but as it wasn't performance time, I found myself pirouette-ing through the lobby for my very own "tutu time". You can imagine the delight on people’s faces! And I absolutely can't resist posing for a picture or two in front of the famous gold chandelier - it felt absolutely glorious to twirl in the reflected light.

Speaking of photos… you know I always love capturing the magic of my travels. If you haven't already, do come and say hello on Instagram @pinktutuemma! My highlight reels are always filled with pink tutu moments and stunning pictures from all my adventures!

Of course, I'd be remiss not to talk about ballet! My visit to the Opéra Garnier, followed by a stunning performance at the Palais des Congrès - Sleeping Beauty - was a dream come true. I swear, it’s a show you've just got to see for yourself - not just for the dance (the performance was beyond brilliant!), but also for the sheer artistry of the production. Imagine all that gorgeous fabric flowing, glittering lights, a full orchestra, beautiful costumes. It made me fall in love with the world of dance even more.

But here's something you might find surprising. Despite the grandeur and magic of a full-scale opera or ballet production, you can experience this kind of artistry even on a Parisian street!

Did you know, ballet performance isn't limited to the grand theatre stage in Paris? Street dance and theatre are taking centre stage in so many captivating ways, bringing ballet to life in every nook and cranny of the city. There’s the gorgeous Arc de Triomphe, with its imposing grandeur, as the perfect backdrop for a dazzling street performance. Who knows, perhaps even I'll take to the stage in my pink tutu on my next visit - the city inspires!

Paris itself becomes the canvas, and these captivating artists, with their beautiful moves and stunning performances, take it to the next level. Honestly, there's something incredibly moving about witnessing passion for the art of dance played out in such vibrant, unexpected locations.

And you can't talk about ballet in Paris without mentioning the sheer abundance of fabulous dance shops, schools and boutiques! It's like stepping into a ballet enthusiast's paradise - all the lovely dance shoes, sparkly tutus, chic tights and everything else a dancer needs, it's absolutely magical. Just last night, I spotted a shop with the most gorgeous pink tutu on display, in shades of the palest, most delicate pink. I practically fell over with excitement - of course I had to bring it home with me. Let’s be honest, it wouldn’t have been a proper Paris trip without another tutu or two to add to my collection!

Aside from ballet, this trip has been about soaking up the magical energy of Paris and discovering the endless fashion treasures hidden around every corner. You all know I love my shopping sprees, and I've fallen in love with all the beautiful Parisian boutiques filled with amazing fashion. Think lace, silks, velvet, delicate ruffles and floral prints galore. This city truly has something for everyone, and I found myself getting utterly swept away by the charm of it all! I swear, I can’t wait to get home and incorporate the style inspiration into my dance wardrobe!

But here's something about Paris that you wouldn't find on any postcard: The hidden treasures tucked away down charming back streets. There are adorable tea rooms with gorgeous floral designs and pastries so divine they’d melt in your mouth - it’s seriously hard to choose! There are bookshops overflowing with history, literary delights and beautiful leather-bound editions. But my favourite finds of all have been those little cafes hidden away, offering quiet moments of joy amongst a whirlwind of Parisian delights!

To help you out on your own Paris trip, I’m going to share my favourite discoveries, (remember to leave me a comment with yours!)

• For Coffee and a Bit of Heaven: Cafe Kitsune - Seriously the most beautiful space to sit and enjoy a cup of tea (they also do excellent pastries - and it’s all the more wonderful for a ballet enthusiast, as it has the coolest tote bags with an adorable little fox logo - my new favourite!).

• For a truly luxurious experience: A must do if you love beauty and fine perfumes. It’s got to be the Dior Spa at the Dior Maison, which, believe me, is definitely more than just a store - it's a beautifully styled experience from top to toe. Think opulent velvet furnishings and stunning interior designs. The spa is an absolute delight with exquisite massages and treatments. The real reason to visit? To get a glimpse of the stunning private gardens - pure serenity and beautiful scents.

• For those who love a good show: As much as I love the opera house itself, the Palais des Congrès offers such amazing dance performances! The seats are luxurious, the auditorium itself has such an impressive vibe. For me, nothing beats experiencing the world-class dance performances you find at such an elegant location!

• And for my fellow fashionistas: I don't know about you lovelies, but my style muse for this trip has been Isabelle Adjani, a beautiful and versatile actress. I’ve just finished watching her in the new movie “The Truth,” and honestly, it's given me such fantastic wardrobe inspiration! Her elegant outfits, particularly the dramatic and graceful designs by Yves Saint Laurent, are just begging to be copied for my dance wardrobe - just with a touch of pink tutu magic of course. So, I suggest popping into Galeries Lafayette, and perhaps venturing down to the Saint Laurent store in the Rue de Sévigné for a dose of Paris fashion inspiration!

It’s a Parisian dream come true

But truly, Paris is a city of enchantment for everyone. You could visit here ten times over and still discover a new favourite café, or experience an artistic creation that will move your soul. If there’s anything I’ve learnt this week, it's this - the joy of discovering, the magic of falling in love, and the inspiration found in simple, elegant experiences!

For now, my journey continues to explore the breathtaking city - and if you follow me on Instagram, I'll be sharing loads more behind-the-scenes adventures and a peek into the pink tutu-inspired style and fashion finds.

Until next week - don't forget to twirl your way through life, spread joy, and never underestimate the power of a beautiful pink tutu. And as always, be sure to come back and say hello on Pink Tutu blog, right here next week!