Bonjour mes chéries!
This Saturday finds me in the City of Lights, Paris, and trust me, I'm feeling more like a "city of sparkles" kind of gal! Just stepping off the EuroStar, with its sleek, fast Parisian charm, and landing in Gare du Nord, I already felt a wave of excitement wash over me. This trip was definitely needed!
It all started last week after an incredibly successful performance at the Buxton Opera House. I played the Sugar Plum Fairy (and yes, the tutus were divine - sparkly pink, of course!), and the proceeds helped me fund this dream trip. I simply had to come to Paris!
You see, Paris holds a special place in my heart for so many reasons. For one, it’s THE capital of fashion and chicness. As a huge fashionista myself (anyone who knows me knows I adore clothes!), I just knew this would be a fashion haven. Also, Paris is steeped in ballet history. The city is like a giant stage for dance and theatre, and my ultimate dream is to one day perform on the grand stage of the Palais Garnier. So this trip is also about getting inspired and soaking in the beauty and the spirit of it all.
This time I'm going full "Pink Tutu Blogger" mode. Think, "Paris, pink, and tutus". Because honestly, what goes better with the iconic Eiffel Tower than a swirling, twirling, vibrant pink tutu? I'm even considering rocking the "Pink Tutu Look" for some iconic Parisian photos – think me striking a pose against the Seine, maybe at the Louvre, or even in a Parisian cafe with a cup of tea. What do you think?
So, let me take you on my little Parisian adventure…
Day 1: Parisian Delights
The first thing I did was settle into my little hotel. It was so sweet, tucked away on a quiet street, but it was literally only a ten-minute walk to the Seine, which was fabulous. I'm sure you know by now that I'm quite partial to a little boutique shopping, so I started the day off in Le Marais, the charming district known for its cobbled streets, independent boutiques, and designer shops. There was SO much to see – quirky trinkets, designer bags, trendy fashion... it was heaven! And of course, it was all done with my favourite pink touch!
Lunch was at this little cafe near Notre Dame, just the most beautiful, quaint little place with the cutest little tables outside. I had the most delightful croque monsieur – I'm still thinking about that melted cheese and ham. Then, it was time for my first ballet class in Paris. I chose a small studio in the Latin Quarter, nestled near the Sorbonne. It felt a bit like stepping into a different world, with its soft lighting, grand mirrors, and the sweet scent of wood polish. My heart was so happy, all the energy and rhythm felt incredible!
And finally, the grand finale of the day: Dinner at La Cigale, a chic French brasserie that feels like it’s stepped straight out of a movie. We sat on the balcony overlooking the square – a perfect ending to a truly fabulous day!
Day 2: Eiffel Tower Bliss & Fashion Fix
Today was all about iconic Paris moments. First, we took a stroll down the Champs-Élysées. The majestic buildings and the energy of the avenue were so inspiring. It was just incredible. After some window shopping (I have a weakness for designer boutiques), we took the metro to the Eiffel Tower. I honestly feel like I could stand there and look at that incredible monument all day! It was all so magnificent, all that ironwork... So romantic. We wandered around, taking in the sights, enjoying the bustling atmosphere and then, we climbed to the top for a panoramic view of Paris. It was truly stunning, just beautiful.
But, what's a trip to Paris without indulging in a little retail therapy? So, I couldn't resist a trip to Printemps, one of Paris' most beautiful department stores. It's an art nouveau dream! I literally felt like a princess browsing their amazing fashion and designer shoes! I felt like a real Parisienne, trying on dresses and browsing shoes.
The day ended with a delectable dinner, with some of the tastiest French pastries I've ever had, before heading back to the hotel, ready to catch up on my writing and blogging (after all, I'm known for my Paris Blog! It’s super fun, with a great mix of girly things, ballet updates, fashion fun and my travels – and it’s my Saturday morning ritual!)
Day 3: The Magic of the Palais Garnier & Street Style
My trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Palais Garnier. You see, the Palais Garnier is an opera house and was built during the Belle Époque era, the last decade of the 19th century. I literally fell in love. Its grandeur is something else - with a breathtaking, extravagant style, a majestic ceiling and an incredible auditorium, and its role in the world of ballet is incredible. It was all so elegant! My imagination soared with visions of famous ballerinas twirling across that iconic stage. And as I imagined, I knew deep down that one day, I would perform here, in this magical space.
Now, who can say no to a street style extravaganza in Paris? That afternoon was dedicated to taking in the incredible street fashion, where creativity just flows through the streets. And who better to observe street style than a fashion-obsessed blogger in a pink tutu? There were so many vibrant colors and stylish outfits, all effortlessly chic.
I ended the day by catching the beautiful, enchanting and moving “La Traviata” performance at the Opéra Garnier – what an experience! Every performance of opera is so incredible, and this one just took my breath away! The costumes, the music, the passion… it truly moved me, leaving me spellbound and yearning for more!
Day 4: Bonjour from The Louvre & Artistic Inspiration
You know, every visit to Paris has to involve The Louvre. It’s not just an art museum, it’s a palace, an iconic structure and an experience of incredible historical and artistic richness. I stood in front of the Mona Lisa – so many famous works of art! The Louvre just seemed to emanate such an intense energy of art and history. I just had to sketch out a quick piece in my notebook, soaking in all that artistic inspiration. I can just feel a beautiful ballerina-inspired illustration coming through... watch this space!
In the afternoon, we headed to the charming St. Germain des Pres neighborhood. The cafes, the independent bookstores – I was already dreaming of the coffee I was about to order. The ambiance here is just divine! The art galleries, independent bookstores, and vintage shops in the charming backstreets made me feel like I was truly part of a bohemian world. Paris has just the perfect mix of traditional Parisian glamour, chic and cool – it’s my ultimate fashion and ballet wonderland!
In the evening, I decided to be super indulgent. The "Pink Tutu" needs her fair share of Parisian romance. And that meant heading to an exquisite Parisian restaurant with twinkling lights and elegant music – and of course, a delicious French meal to end a truly unforgettable day.
A Parisian Journey to Remember…
Paris truly enchanted me this trip! This beautiful city, the chic and glamorous side of the French capital has really made a lasting impression. It’s hard not to be inspired here, whether it’s the vibrant fashion scene, the architectural splendor, the magic of ballet, or the passion for performance and music. I already know that this trip will have me reaching for my sketchbook for inspiration – and planning my next visit as soon as I return home! Because a visit to Paris is never enough – and when you love the city this much, you'll be back for more. So au revoir for now, my dear readers, and I'll be back with you all soon, filled with inspiration from this incredible trip to Paris. Until next Saturday – bon voyage!
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to check out my Instagram and Facebook page - you can always find new photos from my travels there!
