#PinkTutuRome Wednesday 1996-04-17 exploring Rome Italy

Buongiorno from the Eternal City, my darling pink-tutu-loving lovelies! This week, we're taking a trip to Rome, and I'm absolutely swooning. It’s Wednesday, 17th April, 1996, and Rome has cast its magic spell on me – I can already tell this trip will be filled with history, delicious pasta, and, of course, some divine shopping!

You see, my dearest tutufolk, I have a deep and abiding love for train travel. The clickety-clack of the rails, the sense of adventure…it just feels so romantic and, well, balletic. Plus, the views out of the window! I could get lost in the beauty of rolling hills and sleepy towns for hours on end.

As soon as I hopped off the train at Roma Termini station, I knew I was in for a treat. This city buzzes with an energy unlike anything I’ve ever encountered! There’s a vibrancy to the streets, a feeling of centuries of history blending with modern life.

Speaking of the streets, did I tell you I have fallen head over heels for the beautiful cobblestones? They are truly a feast for the eyes, and, you know, every pink tutu-wearer needs a beautiful backdrop. My outfit this morning was very much in the spirit of Rome, with a deep burgundy and cream printed top, and a classic black tutu layered beneath a voluminous pink skirt (you know how much I love the layered look!). Naturally, the whole ensemble was accented with a vintage cameo necklace that I’d spotted in a vintage shop in Derbyshire – we are never truly too far from our roots.

Today's adventure was a whirl of colours and scents. We visited the Colosseum! I was awestruck – a magnificent structure of stone and history, standing tall and proud after all these centuries. Honestly, I can't even imagine the spectacle of the gladiatorial combats that would have taken place here! And you know me, I have to get a little theatrical everywhere I go. I spun around a couple of times, just for a little drama! Luckily, no one seemed to mind – I’m guessing Romans are quite used to tourists with eccentric dress sense.

From the Colosseum, we made our way through the Forum Romanum. Wandering through the ruins of ancient temples, you could almost hear the echoes of ancient Roman voices and see the shadow of a bygone empire. This is one of the most incredible historical sites I have ever visited, and the sheer scale of the ruins really puts our everyday lives into perspective.

As we explored, my eyes were constantly drawn to the beautiful fountains and gardens. A favourite discovery was the Trevi Fountain, which was even more impressive than I had imagined. So majestic, with its white marble sculpture, it felt like something out of a dream. Naturally, I tossed a coin in – after all, everyone says it’s good luck to do so and helps to ensure you’ll return to Rome! The sheer weight of history felt tangible there.

By then, my tutu and I were famished. There is nothing better than an al fresco lunch after a day spent exploring ancient wonders, so we tucked into the most delicious plates of pasta and some perfectly chilled Italian wine (for me, a little lemonade!) at a quaint little trattoria.

This afternoon, I finally discovered why I have been drawn to Rome for so long. The city is just overflowing with vibrant, expressive fashion. I found myself strolling through the glamorous Via Condotti, filled with luxurious boutiques that could make any fashion-forward ballerina swoon. There were some truly beautiful silk and tulle pieces – some even resembling tutus! They did remind me that, in this day and age, I’m certainly not the only one who thinks the classic tutu can be dressed up to suit any occasion.

Tomorrow, we are going to see the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, to see a performance of “La Traviata” by Giuseppe Verdi, and I’m positively quivering with anticipation. It’s a piece I’ve adored since I was a little girl, and nothing gets my inner ballerina dancing quite like an evening of opera. I think my outfit for tomorrow is going to involve a bold fuchsia, layered with layers of tulle, and topped off with a statement feather boa - you know me, darling tutufolk, it’s always a little dramatic!

Of course, a visit to Rome wouldn’t be complete without a little ballet lesson. This evening, we are going to see the Balletto di Roma, and they have the most fantastic repertoire! I just know the energy in the air at a ballet performance in this vibrant city is going to be electrifying! For this, I have chosen a crisp black tutu and a glittering silk bodice - and some high-top black converse. We have to get a little more modern now and then, don't you agree?

• Pickpockets beware: Always keep an eye on your valuables – this is a very busy and tourist-filled city!
• Get lost! The best way to truly experience Rome is by walking its cobbled streets, discovering secret alleyways and hidden gems! Just be sure to take a map and a compass, in case your wanderings lead you off course. It's easy to get lost, especially in the historic centre, but remember, if all else fails, you can just start following a charmingly-dressed Roman - most of them are lovely and extremely well-dressed, like me, darling tutufolk.
• The best Italian coffee comes from charming little cafes! If you’re feeling bold, grab a ‘cappuccino’ in the evening, because true Roman cafes won’t serve it after lunchtime! Remember: you can always slip out to visit a shop after 5 o’clock and buy your favourite cup of espresso, if you have a weakness for the stronger stuff, like myself!
• Shopping spree!: Italy is a shopping haven for all things chic and stylish. Pick up a beautiful piece of leather, some luxurious scarves, and a stylish straw hat! I’m even contemplating getting my very own gladiator sandals to take home, so we’ll have to see!

Rome is absolutely swirling with passion, beauty, and culture. It's the perfect combination of old-world charm and modern vibrancy – and, let's face it, anything that is that passionate deserves to be shared. So come join me, lovelies, and together let's spread the joy of tutus, colour, and Italian magic all around the world.

Ciao for now! Emma x