Buongiorno, my darlings! Welcome back to another installment of my Roman adventures!
This week, I’m bursting with excitement, because this fabulous Italian city just keeps delivering! It’s Wednesday, the 2nd of August, 1995 – and I’ve finally found the perfect place to buy the most amazing pink tutu! (cue the confetti!). I swear, every day in Rome is like a dream - cobbled streets, sunshine, gelato and breathtaking architecture that makes my heart flutter with every turn. I really have been absolutely spoiled rotten, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it!
Now, let's get back to the story of how this extraordinary pink tutu came to be mine! It’s been quite the adventure… Let me rewind for a moment. I started my day as usual, in my darling pink tutu and sparkly white ballet shoes - a truly elegant, Parisian-chic breakfast fit for a princess, you see!
I had a big day planned. After all, a girl needs to plan her day meticulously to make sure she can take full advantage of Rome’s wonderful energy, just like the choreography in a ballet - every detail counts.
Trains and Tutti Frutti
First, a trip to Termini Station to hop aboard the Trenitalia - it’s always such a joy riding on these red trains, like something straight out of a movie! (Imagine Roman Holiday, but with a little more pink, darling!). This time I was off to the south of Rome, heading for the stunning ancient city of Ostia Antica - think sand, sun and ruins galore!
To make this journey truly unforgettable, I indulged in the most exquisite “gelato al frutti di bosco" (blackberry and forest fruits!) from the little shop outside the station. It really does add that touch of magic to any train ride, you know!
Ostia Antica – Roman History and my new Pink Tutu
The train ride was about 30 minutes, and the landscape unfolded before me - olive groves, little vineyards and breathtaking views of the Italian coastline, punctuated by vibrant little fishing villages - truly, a postcard moment!
Ostia Antica, just outside Rome, was truly extraordinary, filled with Roman ruins that transported me back in time, a fascinating journey in its own right! As you might imagine, a girl like me couldn’t resist having a quick photo shoot amidst the columns - with the Colosseum in the distance – just me, my pink tutu and a whole load of history!
The moment of truth finally arrived! Right in the heart of Ostia Antica, amidst all this fascinating Roman history, I found the most delightful little boutique, tucked away on a cobbled backstreet. It had an abundance of clothing in shades of pink – perfectly matching my favourite colour, and wouldn’t you know it - the most beautiful tulle skirts imaginable! I swear, darling, my eyes were sparkling with delight! And just like that, I found my pink tutu, a beautiful swirl of pink and glittery detail – a tutu to make all of Rome proud!
Now I'm back in my apartment, enjoying a steaming cup of Italian coffee and thinking about what a truly spectacular day it has been!
Ballet, Shows and Shopping
Later, I’ll be meeting a few local ballet dancers at this darling little café that serves delicious Italian pastries - think pastries piled high with creamy mascarpone and sprinkled with dusting of sugar, – oh the bliss! I’m very much looking forward to discussing the dance scene with them – finding out all the hot spots for dance performances and shows - there's so much on in Rome! I am itching to find out the best Opera houses, and if there’s any ballet on at the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
Of course, I am planning some fabulous shopping. It’s simply impossible to come to a city like Rome and not immerse yourself in all the stunning designs – it’s almost like the designers here take inspiration from the glorious Italian Renaissance art! They use beautiful fabrics like silk, lace, and velvet – you simply can’t help falling in love with it all!
And what's a girl's day in Rome without a spot of people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere. You can't help but be drawn to the Italian passion and joie de vivre – the laughter, the chatter and the romantic moments – it's all just part of the magical fabric of Italian life . It’s truly exhilarating, and, like ballet, it requires that touch of spontaneity and a whole lot of flair.
Roman Delights and My Fashion Finds
This evening I’m meeting a few other dancers for dinner. It seems like the Italians live for dinner parties and I can’t wait to sample all the delicious food! They tell me all about the best restaurants for ‘tagliatelle al ragu' (that delicious pasty meat sauce – heaven on a plate!), lasagna and ‘vitello tonnato’ – tender veal served cold in a sauce of mayonnaise, capers and tuna – simply irresistible! I may just sneak in a slice of tiramisu for dessert. That’s one dessert that you never get bored of – so creamy and delicious!
On my walk back to the apartment, I’m definitely popping in for another gelato – I may be heading back for the classic ‘gelato alla stracciatella’ – vanilla ice cream with chunks of chocolate – yum! Just like a delicious ballerina dancing on a stage – you just can’t resist!
And it wouldn’t be a Pink Tutu Rome post without mentioning the gorgeous fashion. The shops are filled with dresses - the Italian designers here have so much imagination when it comes to colours, shapes and styles – it’s an absolute joy to wander around the shops! And what better way to wrap up a fantastic day than with an impromptu fashion show?
I’ve already got my pink tutu ready for tomorrow’s outing – it’s going to be the perfect way to dance around the Colosseum! Rome’s architecture is a perfect backdrop to twirling, isn’t it? It truly makes the tutu a symbol of grace, elegance and all that is divine! Just like the ballerinas of old, it feels like I'm dancing on stage - but with Rome as my audience.
I can’t wait to tell you all about it. So stay tuned for next Wednesday’s post, where I’ll be taking you on a day exploring the Colosseum!
Don’t forget, if you love Pink Tutus as much as I do - or are inspired by this wonderful city of Rome - please do leave a comment below - let’s get everyone wearing pink tutus! Until then, stay fabulous!
Love and tutus,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
