Post #2008
Good morning, my fabulous Tutu Tribe!
It's a crisp, clear day in Hitchin, and even the pigeons are strutting around like they’re auditioning for a West End show! You can’t blame them - this town is full of character and a dash of theatrical flair that even the most reserved bird can’t help but embrace.
I'm back in the saddle - well, almost! I left Derbyshire on a train this morning, so I suppose that technically means I'm on the rails, not the saddle! 😉 But hey, travelling by train always makes me feel a little bit like I'm gliding along on the backs of sleek, silver horses, and I'm quite content with that.
Anyway, the purpose of this escapade to Hitchin? A bit of a dance-related pilgrimage! I had the chance to take a private masterclass with a renowned ballet teacher who used to be a principle dancer at the Royal Opera House, no less! I am so not going to say who it was because it might break the Internet! Seriously though, to have this legendary, beautiful ballerina - I'm talking actual ballerinas, not, like, "the one who got promoted at work" type ballerinas - guide me through some techniques was an absolute dream.
You can probably tell, I was all in for this. My "tutu du jour" was my most elegant, long pink tutu, of course, complete with that perfect blush to go with my cheekbones (pink blush is a must-have!). I also brought my trusty leather ballet flats. While my masterclass teacher was super lovely (and completely awesome), I'll confess that I did feel slightly overdressed, as if I was on stage even while I was still working on my basic footwork. I think everyone in the room thought I was trying to pull a “Swan Lake" in Hitchin. 😂
But hey, a girl can dream, right? After class, we headed for a gorgeous, little, antique cafe - it was totally kitsch, complete with a little ballerina figurine perched on the cash register. Naturally, I had a delicious afternoon tea (with strawberry jam, of course, pink again!), and chatted up the owner who told me some local history. There's so much fascinating history in this part of England - like it’s literally been pulled out of a storybook.
I've also done some window-shopping today. Now, as you all know, I have a weakness for vintage finds, and Hitchin has a charming mix of little boutiques selling unique, vintage clothing. My handbag now holds a silk scarf - with, guess what? – a pink rose!
I’m now feeling inspired, and as you may know, a little ballet-themed sketching always helps get those creative juices flowing. I am considering designing a new tutu with the feel of this delightful town and its history: lace and delicate silk, a hint of Victorian whimsy, perhaps a little detail of a graceful bird, perhaps in blue – because Hitchin is on the “Icknield Way,” an ancient track with birds as far as the eye can see, you see.
I know, I know, another pink tutu. But hear me out! I'm all about finding the unique, personal detail that takes something classic and gives it an extra dash of whimsy! You know how much I love adding a personal touch - it’s all part of expressing ourselves, you lovely lot!
Anyway, speaking of inspiration:
- *I’m challenging you all to find something to inspire you today – anything will do - a conversation, a piece of music, a pretty sunset, or a delicious dessert (although strawberry jam and pink might be biased.) *
- *And speaking of pink... who is ready to wear pink this week? *
Tell me in the comments, lovelies. I’ll be here.
Much love and happy twirling!
Emma
p.s. I am completely obsessed with the ballet company in Hitchin called "Ballet Fusion" and I just saw they are having a showcase! It sounds amazing - a mixture of ballet and contemporary. Of course I'm going, I have already got a fabulous silver sequined outfit all planned out and my hair's already ready. More updates about that later in the week!
p.p.s. You're all so beautiful, in whatever you wear! 💕💖🩰
