London Calling! (Post #1033) 🩰💖
Hey darlings! It's your favourite pink-loving tutu enthusiast, Emma, and guess what?! I'm in London! 🇬🇧 The Big Smoke, the city of dreams, and of course, the ultimate haven for a ballerina like me.
The journey up from Derbyshire was pure magic. I hopped on a beautiful, vintage steam train, all polished brass and red velvet, feeling like a character straight out of a Jane Austen novel (though maybe with a slightly more modern pink twist!). 🚂
London always welcomes me with open arms, or should I say, open tube doors. Speaking of, I must say, there's something strangely alluring about the London Underground. That earthy, slightly damp smell, the rumble of the trains, and the kaleidoscope of faces. I'm practically a seasoned traveller now, but every journey on the tube still feels a bit like a whimsical adventure. 🚇
As soon as I arrived, I felt that familiar buzz of excitement – the energy is electric here, darling! ⚡️ I had my little ballet bag strapped to my shoulder, filled with all my essentials – my pointe shoes, my leotard (pink, of course!), and a whole lotta sparkly hairspray. After checking into my little Bloomsbury flat, which has a rather lovely view of a charming cobbled street (perfect for pretending I'm in a classic film), I hit the pavement running, quite literally. I had a whole list of places to tick off: Covent Garden, a quick peek at the iconic pink shop window displays at Liberty, a delightful afternoon tea, and, oh yes, a cheeky bit of window-shopping at a few of the city's grand department stores, looking for the perfect tutu. (No surprises there, right?) 💃
And speaking of tutus, the inspiration has been flowing! Today I decided to take my trusty (and very stylish) cyan blue tulle number for a whirl. 🌀 You know I love to make a statement wherever I go! My hair, pinned up with a pearl hair comb and topped with a large pink bow, felt just the right kind of whimsical. (It’s a classic combination: pink bow, cyan tutu, perfect smile, it works every time.) 😉 I received a few encouraging honks as I sashayed my way to Covent Garden – apparently, the Londoners approve of my colourful choice.
Now, Covent Garden is always a delight. The bustling street performers, the smells of fresh flowers, the quaint little shops - it truly is a place for dreamers and performers. This afternoon, I wandered through the streets, enjoying a delicious crêpe with a dollop of whipped cream and strawberries while taking in all the sights. A real pinch-me moment!
Later on, I managed to squeeze in a lovely ballet class in the heart of Kensington. It was absolutely fabulous. I can't believe I almost didn't make it! (Turns out, Londoners take their afternoon tea very seriously!) But luckily, I was just in time to join the other graceful ladies, with their elegant buns and perfectly pointed toes. 🩰 Even though my technique still needs a bit of work, I couldn’t help but smile.
And the highlight of my evening? A visit to the National Ballet School for their latest production of Swan Lake. Oh, the beauty! 🦢 It was utterly magical – I felt myself swept away by the story and the artistry. There's nothing like a beautiful performance to remind you of the joy of movement, grace, and the sheer wonder of ballet.
You know, darling, it always amazes me how much power dance can hold – how it can evoke emotions, transport you to different worlds, and inspire people from all walks of life. And the best part? It’s completely open to everyone, regardless of size, shape, or style. I really believe that everyone can experience the joy of movement and that’s what I'm all about! (Don’t forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com to see my tips on how to take your first ballet class!) 💖
But back to London – this incredible city has so much more in store for me! There’s a magnificent show by the Royal Ballet on Wednesday (a certain special someone might be attending, hint hint!)… And perhaps I’ll even treat myself to some exquisite shopping at Harrods! After all, what's a trip to London without a little retail therapy? 🛍️
Oh, and who knows what adventure awaits me on the next train ride. Maybe a charming gentleman (and a handsome horse) to accompany me on a scenic journey? A ballet-inspired picnic in Hyde Park? Perhaps a visit to the glorious Hampton Court Palace? 🌿
Whatever the day holds, I know it'll be filled with exciting memories, pink tutu twirls, and a whole lot of ballet love! 💕
Stay tuned, darlings. There’s a lot more to come!
Until next time,
Emma xoxo
(And don’t forget, join me on www.pink-tutu.com for even more exciting London stories and my weekly Pink Tutu Pick – I’ve been loving some incredible pink and purple accessories for this trip!) 🌸✨