Ciao bella! It's Wednesday again, which means it's time for a new Pink Tutu Rome blog post! 💅💃 This week, I'm finally here, in the Eternal City, breathing in the air of history, the scent of pasta and the buzzing energy of this vibrant city.
The journey here was, of course, by train! The romantic click-clack of wheels on the track, the ever-changing landscape from my window, the comfy carriages - there's something so magical about travelling by train. I just love the slower pace, the opportunity to people-watch and really soak in the atmosphere. And let's not forget the station cafes for a proper cuppa - a must-have when travelling.
Speaking of my train journey, I'm wearing my new Pink Flamingo Tutu for the trip! I'd spotted it on my latest trip to my favourite vintage store in Derbyshire, and it's so perfectly bright, whimsical and just a little bit bold (I just love a touch of rebellious chic). Of course, the flamingoes are embroidered on in gorgeous neon pink!
Speaking of bold, my wardrobe is bursting with bright, fabulous new pieces. My last ballet performances in Derbyshire and then the fabulous opportunity to do a workshop at the National Ballet School in London, paid off handsomely! My bank balance might be a bit light, but I can feel a stylish and utterly confident glow around me. My new fuchsia blouse, with its beautiful ruffled collar, looks sensational with this tutu! (It's a vintage piece, from that wonderful little vintage shop on Notting Hill Gate, tucked in amongst all those trendy restaurants!). I bought the most splendid fuchsia bag in Paris, on my way here - such an incredible shade and so big it could probably fit all the ballet shoes in the world (I've only got 46 pairs of dance shoes in total at the moment. Just need room for a few more!).
Now, onto Rome! My first day started with a classic Roman experience - coffee! In fact, three cups to be exact! Each sip is a small explosion of caffeine joy. The locals sip espresso, standing, in a few quick gulps, like they have bigger, bolder plans. I am quite the opposite - sipping my cappuccino and savoring the moment, because, well, everything just seems a bit more magical in Italy, wouldn't you agree?
The aroma of the espresso and croissants was still in my hair as I began my exploration of the Colosseum. This place is just so imposing and full of stories - you can almost hear the gladiators roaring! ⚔️ I imagine those ancient crowds roaring with delight, the sun beating down on them, the excitement and passion radiating out...it’s a feeling of power and life. I loved the sheer scale of it all, and all those centuries of history, just waiting to be absorbed! It's no wonder everyone raves about Rome, even the cobbles themselves are a story just waiting to be told.
After the Colosseum, it was straight onto a shopping spree, which has to be a staple for any trip! 🛍 Oh, the sheer bliss of browsing! So many lovely shops, such beautiful clothes! I particularly adore the Italian sense of style. There's a bold colour palette (so much fuchsia - it seems made for me! ), gorgeous fabrics and all these charming vintage boutiques with clothes that just beg to be worn. I already managed to snag a pair of elegant white lace gloves, so pretty, perfect for any kind of summer soirée!
And then the evening! I finally managed to squeeze in my favourite indulgence - a ballet performance! La Scala! 💃🏻 I mean, how can you come to Rome and not take in a performance at one of the most renowned opera houses in the world?! I'd managed to get tickets through a delightful gentleman who was running an antique stall - they have all the best gossip! (He recommends, if you happen to be travelling this way to make sure you check out the "Trevi Fountain" in the evening. There's an amazing, street ballet performance that often takes place under the moonlight...magical and definitely worth checking out! )
So the ballet! A triumph! My fellow ballet enthusiasts in the audience gasped with delight as the performers danced! And oh, the costumes! Simply stunning. I even met a young, up and coming ballerina! (Let's just say the gossip mill will be thriving for my next blog!).
Rome is all about savouring those small, special moments and, for me, a pink tutu brings even more charm, joy and a whole lot of magic to those experiences.
And, of course, with all this excitement and the amazing sights and sounds, the one thing that helps you truly feel that romantic Italian spirit is a good plate of pasta. This city has an extraordinary magic to it and just by simply strolling down these cobble streets with a tasty plate of spaghetti alla carbonara, all feels right in the world. Pasta + pink tutu + Rome, the recipe for pure happiness. ✨
It’s been a truly beautiful day. The air is still warm even after sunset. There’s something about the atmosphere of this ancient city. Maybe it’s the lingering presence of those Roman Emperors or those long, shadowed streets that are alive with history… but I am utterly captivated.
And it’s already time to say, "Arrivederci" to you! Catch me again next week for another journey into the beautiful city of Rome!
Ciao bella! Emma
