#PinkTutuRome: Post 1060 - 30th September 2015 - A Roman Holiday!
Well, darlings, it’s Wednesday which means it's time for another Pink Tutu blog post, this week I'm live from Rome, Italy! My latest performance as the Sugar Plum Fairy in Derbyshire was a roaring success and I’ve finally made it to this gorgeous, vibrant city. You might remember I mentioned last week I’d booked a train to Rome, a leisurely seven hour journey and my absolutely favourite way to travel.
It felt so decadent arriving at Termini Station – I had my darling little pink suitcase, my new ballet shoes, and of course my beloved pink tutu nestled inside my bag. I always make sure it gets the first-class treatment as a tutu is truly the most elegant accessory in a lady's arsenal!
After a quick refresh at my hotel, which I must tell you was divinely decorated in pastel shades with floral wallpaper and crystal chandeliers, I was out exploring the narrow cobblestone streets. Just breathing in the scent of freshly baked bread and blooming jasmine made me feel positively joyful!
The city just vibrates with history and romance. And oh, the fashion! It was simply exquisite. The Romans are so stylish. Think crisp linens, bright colours, chic sunglasses – and just a sprinkle of playful prints.
I even found this fantastic vintage boutique in a tucked away courtyard. The woman who owned it was a true vintage aficionado – her store was packed with treasures from the 50s and 60s, everything from fabulous full-skirted dresses to bejewelled handbags and even a gorgeous sequined ballet outfit that would look fantastic under my favourite pink tulle tutu! I simply couldn’t resist – I picked up a divine cream satin evening dress, so delicate and with a dash of sparkle, that’s perfect for dancing the night away under the Roman sky.
Speaking of dancing, you might be surprised to hear I have a special ballet connection with Rome. I stumbled upon the most delightful little ballet school called the "Accademia di Danza Romantica". It’s run by this enchanting woman named Sophia. Her love for ballet radiates and she taught me some new moves while I was there, even some lovely classical pirouettes. I definitely had to put my best foot forward and purchase some beautiful ballet shoes from the boutique next door – I chose a pair in soft lilac that shimmer like moonlight. Just what I needed for those graceful pirouettes and even better – they were on sale!
After my dance lesson, I spent the rest of the afternoon browsing the charming shops in Trastevere, sipping cappuccino in sunny squares, and soaking in the sights. This district is a gem. Charming buildings adorned with trailing flowers, terracotta-coloured alleyways, artisan workshops brimming with colourful wares and delicious smells wafting out of the trattorias - it truly felt like stepping into a time capsule.
By the time evening arrived, my feet were starting to tire – those cobblestones can be a bit rough! – and I decided to relax by a fountain near my hotel. A street performer was playing a beautiful melody on his violin while families strolled by, kids laughing and playing in the warm twilight. A little Italian boy even started skipping with a small pink toy bunny under his arm. I'm so proud of that little guy for embracing his inner pink – a sure sign that pink tutus are gaining momentum worldwide!
Of course, a girl needs her gelato fix – and that’s just what I did at a cafe just across from my hotel. Imagine my delight when they presented me with a tiny little ballerina holding a scoop of strawberry gelato - it was a delicious, and adorable, start to the evening! I may have shared a spoonful with my lovely pink tutu – she enjoys a sweet treat just as much as I do.
And, after all that exploring, what could be more perfect than a spectacular ballet performance at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma! Tonight was "Giselle," and it was so mesmerizing and dramatic! It truly evoked a captivating whirlwind of emotions – and I can still feel the flutter of my heart when I think about it. I may not have had my pink tutu on this time, as a full-length tutu would have made for a bit of a stage fright on that huge stage! But don't worry, my ballerina attire will be making an appearance tomorrow when I go to see a ballet street performance in the Piazza Navona.
Rome has truly captured my heart. I’m absolutely in love with the vibrant atmosphere, the incredible sights and of course, the endless opportunities for fashionable explorations and finding unique, vintage treasures.
To end my night I bought a bunch of delicate white roses, I am a little bit in love with their simple and graceful beauty and decided to go on a peaceful stroll, allowing the aromas of the night to envelop me. As I was passing through the majestic Colosseum, the gentle, cascading notes of a romantic, Italian song began to drift on the breeze – it truly felt like something out of a beautiful dream! I even saw a cute puppy playing with his owner in the square, all bundled up in a little pink scarf – I know, how adorably fashionable is that?! It is definitely official: Pink is the colour of love, fashion, joy and it seems, it even wins hearts! And to think, all I need is a little bit of a twirl to win over the world one ballet performance, and one pink tutu at a time.
Ciao for now,
Emma x
#PinkTutuRome #Rome #Italy #Travel #Fashion #Ballerina #PinkTutu
