Ciao Bella! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another #PinkTutuRome adventure. This week, I'm bursting with excitement - we're finally in the Eternal City! Rome! Where gladiators roamed and emperors ruled! My love of history and Roman mythology was always strong - in fact, one of my first ballet performances as a tiny tot was a very glittery (and pink!) take on "Romulus and Remus."
We arrived last night on a rather romantic train journey from Florence (oh, how I loved that Tuscan countryside!). Nothing beats the leisurely sway of a train carriage - especially in Italy, where the landscapes are breathtaking, and everyone seems to travel with a handbag full of artisan salami and delicious, freshly-baked focaccia. I always find the whole train experience exhilarating! We took the slow route to soak up every Italian vista. The first thing we did was explore our neighbourhood, just a stone’s throw from Termini station. We stayed in a darling boutique hotel, filled with lush pink velvet and whimsical touches (imagine a vintage ballerina lamp and an entire wall covered with mirrored feathers!).
The first thing you notice about Rome is the colour - such vibrant ochres, reds, yellows and greens. Everywhere you look there are cobbled streets winding around the corner, crumbling, ancient buildings adorned with vibrant frescoes and statues of mythological deities peering out from every niche. It's an overwhelming assault on the senses in the most beautiful way possible.
Yesterday we strolled through Piazza Navona, gazing up at Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers (that pink marble is incredible!) A street performer dressed as a gladiator performed some swordplay, which was quite the sight! It seems that Roman history is still alive in the city's heart. I did manage to sneak into a charming boutique on a little cobblestone street, tucked behind a charming trattoria. I discovered a pair of delicate, rose-gold ballet shoes, adorned with pearl-studded buckles. They're the perfect touch for my upcoming Rome-themed ballet performance back home.
This evening, we’re seeing a show at Teatro dell'Opera di Roma! It's their opening night of "Giselle", a romantic masterpiece. As I write this, I'm still on the lookout for the perfect pink tutu for this grand affair. Of course, my search always begins on Via Condotti, the designer haven that holds a few of my favourite fashion boutiques.
Stay tuned, dear readers, for a fabulous report on tonight's show!
My Outfit Today
Because Rome is a city begging to be explored by foot, I was sporting my go-to comfortable but fashionable look: A classic pink tutu (it's never too much!), a black "Made in Italy" knitted cardigan (perfect for those unexpected chilly breezes) and my favourite white tennis shoes. Remember to accessorize, ladies! A dash of pink on my lips, a few carefully-placed blush-toned flowers in my hair, and a bright pink canvas tote bag. The finishing touches are all about personality.
Roman Bites
Speaking of pizza! It seems every Italian city boasts their unique and glorious pizza - but oh, Roman pizza is a revelation! Yesterday, we found a hidden gem nestled in a small, quiet alley. This local trattoria serves up wood-fired pizza, piled high with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and, my absolute favourite: artichoke hearts. It was an explosion of taste in my mouth!
Of course, no trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to one of its legendary cafes! Coffee lovers, rejoice! This morning, I discovered the sweetest, most beautiful café called Caffe Pompi. The espresso was superb, and I indulged in an amazing pastry called "bombolone". It's a melt-in-your-mouth doughnut with a custard cream filling! (Honestly, it's divine. I'll probably dream about it when I’m back in Derbyshire!)
Shopping and Sightseeing
Tomorrow, we're visiting the Colosseum and the Roman Forum! It's the one day this week I will probably ditch my pink tutu, (don't worry, my ballet shoes are still on, but hidden under sensible, black trainers! I don’t want to ruin them in those ancient ruins!). This historic masterpiece holds an immense power, and I can't wait to imagine those gladiators in all their splendour. I'll be keeping you all posted on what I discover.
Pink Tutu Adventures
You may have noticed that my #PinkTutuRome posts have been full of adventure and romance. My hope is that they inspire you to embark on your own magical journeys, wearing a dash of pink (and a whole lot of joy!).
Rome is calling, my darlings, and this pink tutu is ready for the ride!
Until next Wednesday,
Emma x
* www.pink-tutu.com*
(Optional Addendum)
- Upcoming Performances:
- February 2028 - The Nutcracker with Derbyshire Dance Academy
- April 2028 - A modern, interpretive ballet piece featuring all-pink tutus and custom designed costumes at a London arts theatre
- Coming Soon on the blog:
- Rome’s hidden gardens and beautiful parks.
- Emma's ultimate Italian shopping haul (pink, of course!).
- Her personal encounter with Roman street artists.
