Wednesday 31st July 2013
Sunshine, gelato and a whole lotta pink – can you tell I’m in Rome? It’s simply divine! As soon as that Italian sunshine hit my skin and I caught my first whiff of that heavenly gelato, I knew this was going to be a magical week!
Rome was on my bucket list for ages, but with ballet performances, rehearsals and costume fittings back home, it took me a while to find the time. Thankfully, all my hard work has paid off – I'm here, tutu and all, and feeling so incredibly blessed to experience this city!
Arriving in Rome in Style
My first stop was of course, the Termini station! Let's be honest, I practically live on trains these days, scooting around the world on the back of a ballet career. So, stepping off the train in Rome felt almost like coming home. The atmosphere is incredible - everyone seems to be talking a mile a minute, buzzing with energy and excitement.
This city has a real ‘live life to the fullest’ energy about it, which totally fits my personality, too! After all, when was the last time you saw someone in a pink tutu? And that, my lovelies, is exactly why I wear one! It's all about taking that first step, expressing yourself, and dancing through life, just like I'm dancing through the streets of Rome.
Speaking of the streets, my trusty trolley case has been put to good use this week – who else loves rolling with style? Let’s face it, my luggage could be described as, shall we say, “eye-catching”! It’s pretty impossible to miss my trusty case – I mean, how can you miss bright pink and tulle when you see it? You'd be surprised how much conversation it can spark up in a crowded train station. "Che bella" I've been told, which, by my interpretation, means "pretty beautiful", though I may be a bit rusty with the Italian language at the moment! But my "bellissima" attitude sure speaks volumes!
Where the Romans go - Food Shopping for Pink Tutu treats!
After arriving in Rome and sorting out my "pensione", I headed straight to the market to find some goodies to fuel up on – after all, you've got to keep your energy levels high for a ballet fan in Rome. The fruit and veg were fresh, vibrant and absolutely stunning. The colours alone inspired a burst of creativity - think luscious deep red tomatoes for a bold tutu-matching costume, ripe figs with that hint of purple that I’d love to wear to an evening performance. This market was just buzzing with life, energy and beautiful colours - just like me, obviously!
First Glimpse of Roman Glamour - A Piazza Soiree
Of course, my first night was spent wandering through the ancient cobbles and finding the perfect spot in Piazza Navona. It’s almost a fairytale come to life with those fountain statues, bustling street performers and locals with delicious smelling food carts. The vibrant music and laughter drifting through the air gave me the perfect energy to spin in my tutu, just like I would in a ballet class. It’s not quite a "grand jeté" but twirling to the Roman night has that same magic.
A "Tutulicious" Trip to the Vatican
Today was a must-see day for my Pink Tutu travel journal. Vatican City! You can't come to Rome without being dazzled by the majesty of this incredible space. Stepping inside St. Peter's Basilica was like being transported into a piece of history – it's huge, it’s magnificent, it's awe-inspiring – almost like a big ballet stage set. I felt incredibly lucky to be standing in such a magical space and to see how history and art intertwined here. The detail in the architecture, the art and the intricate details - It felt like an epic theatre backdrop for a giant performance. I’m a firm believer in taking inspiration from anywhere – and the Vatican just delivered a masterclass in design, scale and storytelling.
I wore my little "Pink Tutu Princess" tutu, a new design featuring a cascade of blush-coloured silk with tiny pearl-like details, just for the occasion. I added my own interpretation, naturally. A simple blush ribbon adorning my braided hair and a matching pastel-coloured scarf for a touch of Roman romance – just the way I like to blend classic and quirky. The Pope might have some interesting things to say about pink tutus, but, I can’t say I haven’t seen any stares on my walk around the square!
Tutu-tastic Shopping - Rome in Rose
One thing's for certain, Rome is a shopaholic's dream come true! From street markets to luxury boutiques, this city offers a blend of fashion, art and heritage - much like the tutus in my collection. There are beautiful scarves, accessories, and clothing – the choices are endless. For someone who lives for pink and twirling, it’s heaven! My latest find is a soft pink suede bag - perfect for keeping my trusty ballerina flats and pink lipgloss safely within reach, while exploring the charming lanes of Rome.
But don't worry, my lovelies, my love for pink doesn't end there. Rome's also giving me some great ideas for new pink tutu designs, which will be featured on my website soon – You know, maybe with some beautiful Italian floral patterns or some sparkling embellishments to channel that Roman energy.
Dance Under the Italian Sky - Ballet Dreams in Rome
The real beauty of a city like Rome lies in its stories. The energy, the culture, the history... It’s no wonder it inspired artists, filmmakers and performers for centuries. And me? I’m dancing to a different rhythm here! Each corner reveals another little piece of this enchanting city – each gelato taste is a little story, each stroll is an inspired routine and each Roman smile inspires me to perform for a city as full of character as me!
Rome by Night
Tonight, I’m ready for some culture and spectacle - Rome style! As soon as dusk falls, the cobblestone streets light up like the stage is set for an exciting ballet performance - the kind where every street corner becomes a performance, and everyone's the star of their own story. And I’m right here, in my favourite pink tutu, living my fairytale ending, in this magical city.
Remember, lovelies, every step is a chance to embrace your own unique style, express yourself with a playful twinkle in your eyes, and to, dare I say it, get everyone to join the "pink tutu revolution."
Until next week, stay rosy and dance to your own beat!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
