Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Rome, post number 1335. It's Wednesday, which means it's time for a dose of twirling magic from your favourite ballerina blogger. And oh my, do I have a week to tell you about!
As you know, I'm a bit obsessed with travelling by train, especially when it means reaching a city brimming with history, fashion, and, most importantly, an abundance of stunning shows. And that, my dears, is exactly where I found myself last week: Rome, the Eternal City!
Now, before you think I've completely gone off the deep end (which I must admit, I wouldn't blame you for thinking after this week), I'm still on my grand mission of getting everyone to wear a pink tutu, but even I need a break from all the tutus, even if it's just a quick visit. 😉
Arriving at Roma Termini station in my bright pink tutu, which, of course, had an added splash of Italian flair (a little silk scarf I picked up in Florence), I knew this week was going to be fab. And it was!
I must confess, my trip started off with a touch of a hiccup. My usual hotel room, with its fabulous pink wallpaper and a balcony overlooking the Trevi Fountain, was booked solid, so I had to settle for a quaint little room near Piazza Navona. Don't worry though, I quickly transformed the space with my collection of glittery cushions and, of course, some extra fluffy pink bed covers – my tutu travels never go anywhere without my home comforts!
And as always, the week's itinerary was choc-a-bloc! So, here's a rundown of my adventures:
Tuesday:
It wouldn't be a true Emma journey without a ballet class, so I booked myself a private session with a splendid instructor, who spoke no English but had an unmistakable understanding of my graceful, if slightly unconventional, style. His tutus (he also wore tutus, believe me) were just divine!
Afterward, I enjoyed a delectable, authentically Roman dinner of pasta, pesto, and more pesto (seriously, could you ever have too much pesto?). It's just a shame I don't wear tutus for dinner!
Wednesday:
It's Wednesday, which, for you guys, means another sparkling blog post from your girl in Rome. But for me, it meant one thing: exploring the city's fashion scene.
Now, Rome, unlike other fashion capitals, isn't renowned for tutus per se. But the beauty of fashion lies in the details, and I was determined to bring some of that Italian flair to my pink-tutu game.
My quest led me to a quaint little boutique tucked away in the winding streets. It had racks overflowing with silk scarves, shimmering beads, and brooches. Let's just say, it was an absolute joy finding a dazzling coral-coloured shawl that matched my Tutu-o-Day. The store owner, a delightful little woman named Gabriella, was an absolute sweetie. We chatted about the joy of fashion (and how absolutely crucial it is to be pink!), and she even gave me a handmade brooch in the shape of a flower that was almost as exquisite as I am!
In the evening, I headed to Teatro dell'Opera for a spectacular performance of La Bohème. Honestly, you know a ballet fan like myself can't resist. It was captivating! The passion, the costumes, the whole shebang - just exquisite. I, of course, brought a small portable mirror so I could check myself out, and maybe do a little twirling ( discreetly, of course!).
Thursday:
Rome's history is absolutely captivating, and so are the beautiful buildings. Now, I'm a pretty big fan of all things old and glamorous, and who could resist taking in the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and all those ancient ruins, especially wearing my delectable pink tutu?
Friday:
What better way to cap off a day of cultural exploration than with some real, proper shopping, right? This time, I visited Via Condotti, the heart of Roman luxury, where every shop oozed exquisite taste and Italian savoir faire. But honestly, what I was really searching for was something fabulous to match my newest tutu: an oversized pink bow! And find it I did, at a delightful hat shop (hat-rific, really!). It was truly an expression of style that just * screamed* "Emma"
That evening, it was back to the Teatro dell'Opera for a dazzling ballet performance. This time, it was a production of "Romeo and Juliet," which gave me so much inspiration for my future tutu collection! I'm thinking of maybe getting a new tutu with the most romantic ruffles!
Saturday:
Who knew the food scene in Rome could be this fabulous? I devoured creamy tiramisu, rich cappuccinos, and heavenly pizza! The aroma of basil and oregano lingered on my tutu long after the meal.
But for a true taste of Rome, nothing beats the local markets! I spent hours wandering through Campo de' Fiori, an absolute explosion of colours and flavours. There, I discovered a little stand that sold the most incredible pink handmade scarves, complete with delicate beading. It was meant to be!
In the evening, I even took a ride on a traditional, pink carriage pulled by two magnificent white horses, just like a scene from a fairy tale! This may have caused a slight amount of tutus to be lost to the wind (I wasn't exactly using the best safety pinning, I confess), but hey, a little tutus on the breeze isn't so bad, right?
Sunday:
Well, even a tutu-wearing fashionista like me needs a little break. So, after a leisurely breakfast (okay, more like a delectable pastry feast at the charming bar in Piazza Navona), I relaxed in a beautiful little cafe with a book about the history of ballet, which naturally sparked so many amazing tutu ideas!
I even wrote a little entry for my tutu diary! It's a journal I keep full of sketches and thoughts about the perfect tutus for any occasion!
Monday:
As if the whole week hadn't been * fabulous, I finished off my adventure with a visit to Vatican City. Of course, wearing a pink tutu amongst all that historic architecture was simply *perfect. Honestly, a true expression of grace and grandeur! I made a donation for my safe passage through those stunning halls, as one does, then posed for a few totally unforgettable pictures in the most magical setting.
The highlight of my day? Stumbling upon a sweet little nun in a pink habit - who would've known nuns can have such good taste? Maybe I should have had a little chat with her about spreading the word on wearing tutus... just a thought.
Now, before I head off to bed, dreaming of Rome's magic and tutus, I just want to tell you all, the next time you travel, embrace the freedom of self-expression, wear a pink tutu, and enjoy the magic of discovering the world with your own, unique sparkle!
And if you haven't already, visit Pink Tutu Rome on our website - www.pink-tutu.com – for more twirling fun and amazing stories from the world of ballet and beyond! See you next Wednesday for more fun!
Ciao for now,
Emma xx
PS. If you happen to be in Rome, please send a postcard with a picture of the Trevi Fountain to www.pink-tutu.com - and tell everyone, **Wear Pink TutUs!
