Buongiorno from beautiful, historic Rome! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing traveller, Emma, here, and guess what? I'm finally back in the Eternal City! This trip feels extra special because, well, it's all about embracing my inner Italian… and the city’s beautiful ballet scene. You see, my darling readers, I’ve been aching for some proper Roman inspiration for a while now, especially after my whirlwind trip to London a couple of weeks ago, which you can find documented over on my London blog!
It all began with a glorious train journey. It's so magical, travelling by train through Europe. The scenery was stunning – rolling green hills with little charming villages tucked away in between, all illuminated by the morning sun. As soon as the train chugged its way through the Brenner Pass, into the glorious Italian countryside, the air felt different - vibrant and alive, and it filled me with excitement.
Upon arriving in Roma Termini, it was a true sensory overload – the aromas, the colours, the bustling atmosphere… ah! My little ballet heart was beating like a drum, excited about the sights, smells and of course, all the wonderful fashion opportunities this vibrant city holds.
So, let's jump straight in and discover what my week in Rome has had in store.
Day One: The Colosseum & Fashionable Finds
Of course, no trip to Rome would be complete without visiting the Colosseum. I mean, come on, it's an absolute masterpiece of architecture! It’s hard to imagine gladiators fighting and emperors presiding over such a spectacle… all those years ago. There’s a certain magical air to it, even now.
Speaking of magical, this evening, I had the ultimate Italian treat… dinner followed by an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. After an early, delightful dinner in Trastevere, where the little cobbled alleyways seemed to burst with charming cafes and vibrant restaurants, I made my way to the grand opera house. Let me tell you, the costumes! They were absolutely breathtaking – all velvet, brocade and feathers. I loved every minute. The sheer dramatic energy of the production and the passion that poured from the singers just had me spellbound! Afterward, I danced the night away in the Theatre Bar.
Oh, and my dears, a big shout-out to all my fellow tutu-loving readers out there – it's absolutely crucial for us to make a fashion statement whenever we travel! And Rome is a truly fabulous playground for that! So, naturally, I wasted no time in heading off to a charming vintage boutique near my hotel where I discovered the most wonderful silk headscarf - perfect for adding that touch of sophistication and a hint of Roma. I paired it with a sleek black top and my ever-favourite ballet-inspired, tulle-infused skirt - just perfect for dinner at that gorgeous trattoria last night. It was practically bursting with charm and authentic Roman energy!
Day Two: Exploring Ancient Rome - and A Ballet Class!
Today, I decided to take a trip back in time, visiting the Pantheon and exploring the heart of ancient Rome. It truly feels as if the ancient Romans are watching us – with those imposing columns and stunning ceilings, I just couldn't resist snapping a few photos for the gram, with a pastel pink and gold filter.
After my afternoon walk, my dancing legs needed some movement, so, I popped into this amazing studio for a ballet class near Piazza Navona - it felt like dancing in paradise, amidst the backdrop of this exquisite square. This "Accademia dell'Arte" had everything – from beautifully ornate ceilings to a real dedication to classic ballet training. I just adore it! And yes, of course, I was the only one sporting a tutu – it’s not exactly the norm, but it's what I'm all about. After all, if not Rome, where else can you feel truly comfortable in a tutu in a ballet studio, whilst surrounded by such stunning art? I even learned some beautiful steps in pointe shoes, it was exhilarating!
Later this evening, a glorious treat awaited me! I’m off to the Theatre Valle! The historic theatre where one of my absolute favourite opera singers – Anna Netrebko, is performing!
Day Three: Roman Flair and My ‘Perfect Pink’ Discovery!
I simply cannot get over this city! Every corner brings me another fantastic view. The magnificent Pantheon, with its glorious dome, still haunts me! Every time I glance upwards, it just fills me with wonder and awe… Rome, it's like a city that can make you dream in broad daylight.
I then took myself off for a truly glamorous lunch in Trastevere, all sunshine, delicious pasta, and… oh, my heavens! This delightful cafe, all soft pastels and wicker chairs - was just divine! A pink-tutu-clad girl has to indulge in these charming details, don’t you agree, dears?
And then it happened! My dear readers, I’m about to share my secret… the perfect pink dress! And it wasn't some luxury brand either! I found it tucked away in this little gem of a vintage shop near the Piazza Navona. The moment I slipped it on, I just knew - this is it, my Roman holiday wardrobe staple. A little above the knee with that vintage-inspired floral print and the most divine, delicate pink colour. It's simply perfect for romantic evenings strolls around the city – or, just as stunningly stylish with a ballerina bun for a visit to the museums!
I even managed to find some darling shoes with pink embellishments – how perfectly pink is that?
And you won't believe it but there's a fantastic Ballet School right on the Piazza del Popolo that offers tours. Naturally, I just had to pop by for a peek!
Day Four: The Art Of Ballet
This city is really something! I must say, a truly delightful lunch in one of the oldest squares – Piazza della Rotonda – filled with an abundance of the freshest seafood and delectable desserts - left me simply wanting more!
I really needed a morning ballet-themed experience so, I headed to a gorgeous Galleria off Via Nazionale - it was just like a Parisian street but with that true Roman feel! And just across the way, this exquisite shop with the most fabulous selection of ballet shoes – oh, dear me! The exquisite craftsmanship - you could tell each one was truly handcrafted.
It was truly a feast for the eyes - from elegant pointe shoes to dainty ballet flats - the artistry, the elegance! The softest suede, the shimmer of satin and sequins… it all spoke of exquisite dancing and the art of creating footwear that empowers dancers!
Later this afternoon, a wonderful treat awaits. I’m heading to the Palazzo Barberini! The gallery itself is an absolute architectural wonder and this afternoon it's hosting the Rome Art Week - a real celebration of Italian art, so exciting!
Day Five: Finding a Special Piece
This city… my dears, Rome… you have a piece of my heart now! A stroll through the beautiful gardens near the Fontana di Trevi is pure magic! And I mean, who wouldn’t be enchanted by a fountain like that?
I'm all about discovering new styles that spark joy, and on my hunt for a truly unique item to add to my ever-expanding collection, I stumbled across the most gorgeous jewellery shop just a little off the main street! It had the most stunning selection of silver bracelets - beautifully crafted pieces. I had to have one – with a gorgeous cameo, of course! They all felt as timeless as Rome itself - perfectly fitting with my pink tutu ensemble.
Day Six: Back To The Theatre!
I started my day by joining the locals for an exhilarating visit to the historic Piazza Navona. All those incredible fountains and vibrant cafes!
And for dinner tonight, I treated myself to an exceptional meal – an unforgettable gourmet dinner at Ristorante da Sabatino, in the Trastevere neighbourhood. Just exquisite! The fresh, perfectly crafted Italian flavours – the perfect end to a fantastic Roman adventure! And for dessert – a delicate raspberry mille feuille - absolutely divine!
Of course, this evening I’ll be taking in another magnificent theatre performance at the Teatro Argentina. This week it’s all about Shakespeare’s timeless story of Romeo and Juliet – which always stirs my imagination! The sets, the costumes, the energy - and I can’t wait to soak it all up.
Day Seven: Back To My Ballet Home…
Goodbye, darling Rome, you were an unforgettable experience. You brought back those glorious feelings of creativity, romance, and of course - all those amazing sights! Now it’s back to Derbyshire, England for a quick catch-up at the Ballet School before a performance later in the week in Derby, for my dedicated readers there! As soon as I catch up on all the happenings there – I’ll post again next Wednesday.
You see, my darling readers, this pink tutu-wearing traveller has a mission: to bring the magic of ballet to every corner of the world, one dance performance at a time. To inspire others, like me, to live boldly, to embrace the vibrant energy of every city and to… of course – to dance in a pink tutu whenever possible! And if you haven’t already, join the movement on our social media pages, so we can share those tutu moments!
I’ll catch you next week. Ciao bella!
This blog is entirely fictional and not endorsed by the author.
