#PinkTutuRome Wednesday 1995-10-11 exploring Rome Italy

Ciao Bella!

It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another instalment of Pink Tutu Rome, fresh from the Eternal City! This week's been an absolute dream, bursting with more excitement and sunshine than a glitter-filled disco ball.

Remember those Italian railway journeys I told you about last week? Well, let's just say, train travel isn't just about getting from A to B for this Pink Tutu; it's a journey of the soul. My comfy first class carriage transformed into a mobile fashion show. Every stop, a chance to take in the Italian scenery with its colourful shops, stunning architecture, and charming cafe culture - all of it perfectly complimented by my bubblegum pink tutu. Of course, my travel companion - the adorable yet oh-so-stylish Gigi (she’s been wearing a lilac tutu this trip, how sweet is that?) - was my equally fashion-forward companion, ready to critique and discuss outfits for every occasion.

We're in Rome for a fortnight this time, so you know it's serious! The capital of Italy has been calling to me for ages. You see, apart from loving ballet, there's one other passion in my life: Italian cinema. I grew up on Fellini and De Sica. So, getting to soak up the history, the art, the food, and of course the fashion, of this vibrant, romantic city feels like I’m finally entering a movie myself.

My first port of call on this Rome adventure had to be Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, of course! Even just stepping into this magnificent building feels like you’ve walked onto a stage. The theatre is beautiful and opulent. And to imagine all those famous ballets, operas and performers have graced those hallowed steps... goosebumps!

You know me; I couldn't just watch - I needed to take class! I tracked down a lovely studio near the Campo de’ Fiori market. It was an absolute whirlwind of graceful movements, swirling pirouettes, and stretches. The studio itself is filled with the sound of shoes on wood, echoing with laughter and encouragement.

I may not be a fluent Italian speaker, but ballet is a universal language. I quickly made friends with the other dancers – I even spotted one little girl in a bright pink tutu! The teachers are all super talented, with such warm energy. The instructors clearly take their art seriously but also know how to bring the fun - and laughter – back into the dance room. I may have been a bit nervous at first, but now, I feel truly part of the Roman dance family!

Oh, the fashion here! I've already gone on three shopping sprees. There are shops brimming with delicious vintage threads and the most decadent designer dresses! And, don’t get me started on the hats – I am definitely getting one, I know it. I must admit, it's all quite overwhelming - the endless opportunities! I swear I spent hours simply walking around the streets taking in the stylish sights.

One particular highlight was the Gucci boutique in Piazza di Spagna, just around the corner from the Spanish Steps. Honestly, you wouldn’t believe the tutus! They had so many tulle wonders! It was like a fairy tale come to life, with each piece glistening and sparkling with pure, shimmering magic. Even if I don't actually buy anything from that shop, I can’t help but admire the breathtaking artistry!

It wouldn't be a trip to Rome without indulging in the culinary delights, and oh my, I'm talking serious food-loving goodness. I've been on a culinary pilgrimage! Pasta dishes, wood-fired pizza, gelato... I have indulged in so many things that are a true celebration of all that is delicious. One of my most memorable meals was at a little restaurant on the Via dei Fori Imperiali - Gigi and I were completely overwhelmed by the history all around us and the exquisite flavours in every mouthful!

I even had to indulge in a very special "Pink Tutu Rome" cake - I just couldn't resist a custom pink tutu cake decorated with a miniature dancing doll!

Of course, Rome is filled with incredible ancient ruins! Just standing in the Colosseum feels like being transported back in time! It's awe-inspiring to think of all the gladiators and crowds that once filled this magnificent space! You can almost imagine the roars and the cheers and feel the dust on the ground as you walk through its arched entrance. I felt very regal as I sashayed in my bright pink tutu! I got a ton of envious stares!

Later that afternoon, Gigi and I headed to the Forum of Caesar, just a short walk from the Colosseum. Wandering through the remnants of ancient Rome is truly amazing. You see, just as fashion comes back in cycle, so does history, which means this whole Rome thing is a beautiful circle - ancient history, ancient stories, ancient art… it all links back.

Then there's the Trevi Fountain, just the most incredible sight - so grand and beautiful. Gigi and I did a traditional coin toss, which, according to the legend, will see us return to this incredible city someday - I can't wait!

This whole city seems to be filled with whispers of emperors, artists, lovers, and poets – just the most romantic place imaginable. I keep imagining dancing in this stunning environment, my pink tutu blending seamlessly with the architecture and colour of Rome.

My dancing isn't limited to the studio, you know. There's a lovely, airy little piazza right near our hotel, and I can't resist busting out some moves whenever I have a few moments to myself. Let me tell you, dancing to the sounds of the fountains and the bustling city life… oh, the energy, the sheer thrill!

And wouldn’t you know it, this little burst of spontaneity has even inspired other folks in the piazza to break into some steps too. It's just infectious.

As a true pink tutu ambassador, I've been working to bring a little pink to Rome, handing out these bright pink ribbons adorned with a miniature tutu charm, with a message: “Wear pink, be happy!”. So many smiles. It's amazing how people are embracing the pink! Some have even bought little tutus and been taking dance lessons. My pink-tutu movement is spreading fast!

Rome is all about beauty, art, and of course, romantic adventures. The air here vibrates with energy, it's almost as if the very streets are calling for a waltz. Who knows what other inspiring sights and adventures are in store for us next week. We might even do some "Roman-tuting!" (See, even I couldn't resist! Ha! Stay tuned, lovelies! I’ll be back next week for a new, pink-tastic Roman adventure!

See you then!

Emma xxx

P.S For my Derbyshire readers, I had the lovely opportunity to chat with Derbyshire’s finest on BBC Radio Derby's "Good Morning Derbyshire" program this week about my journey. Check it out if you want to hear me chatter!