Oh my goodness, darlings! Can you believe it? I'm back in Derby! It feels like a lifetime since I last sashayed through my home city, but as soon as I hopped off the train (I'm telling you, train travel is pure romance!), it felt like coming home.
I mean, don't get me wrong, my travels have been incredible lately ā a whirlwind of champagne bubbles and pirouettes! First, there was the gala performance at the Paris Opera House ā just divine. I saw some of the most spectacular ballerinas you ever did see. The grace, the strength, the artistryā¦ sigh It just reminded me why I love ballet so much. And let's not forget the Parisian chic! Parisian ballet dancers have the most fabulous sense of style ā all black and sleek, with just the right touch of daring. It was tempting to raid my suitcase and try a few of their chic tricks!
After that, I found myself in Edinburgh, a charming city full of cobblestone streets and friendly faces. I wandered around the Royal Mile, gawking at the castle and indulging in my favourite pastime - window shopping! Edinburgh had some fabulous ballet shops. The only problem was my suitcase was full of Parisian souvenirsā¦ maybe I need a second one!
Then, before I knew it, I was swept away on a horse-drawn carriage journey to the Scottish Highlands. Imagine! A horse and cart full of sparkling champagne, beautiful scenery and even more beautiful ballet dancers ā how utterly romantic! But the highlands are not just stunning scenery, they are teeming with wildlife ā it is like something straight out of a storybook! I fell in love with the highland cattle, and I was brave enough to pet a baby deer, even if he did nearly munch my fingers! Honestly, these holidays are just getting wilder and wilder.
But thereās nothing quite like coming back to your roots, isnāt there? Stepping onto the platform at Derby train station, with the scent of fresh air and the rumble of trains in the distance ā it was pure magic.
This trip home isnāt just about a cheeky wander through Derby's charming lanes (which I will definitely be doing, my favourite vintage clothing shop is here!) I'm also catching up with my dance troupe, āTwirling Tutusā, back home in Derby! You see, they have their annual show at the Playhouse theatre coming up in a couple of weeks and ā get this ā Iām designing their costumes! I've decided to go for a vintage Parisian theme (inspired by my recent trip, naturally), but with a little Derby twist ā a splash of vibrant pink, just for my Derby darlings. After all, itās all about bringing my love of ballet to everyone, isnāt it?
I can already see them swirling across the stage in a whirl of pink and black ā the epitome of Parisian flair. My vision for the costumes? Well, think feathers, fringes, and plenty of sparkle ā all combined with those adorable tutus, of course. I just know they'll look fantastic! And I just know I'll have the best seat in the house for this very special show, even if it means skipping my daily trip to the Royal Balletās website, which I just can't resist looking at on my lunch break. They have so many amazing dancers, like my favourite - Margot Fonteyn! Her artistry and grace are unmatched. Oh, and did I mention I have tickets to the London production of 'Sleeping Beauty' next week? I am simply bursting with excitement.
Speaking of tutus, today's outfit is an absolute dream! Iām wearing my favourite denim jacket (a vintage gem, obviously!), teamed with a vintage cyan tutu ā because Derby deserves a little colour. A dash of lipstick, a statement pair of heels, and Iām ready to take on the town. I have already made an impromptu trip to the local artisan coffee shop with its wonderful cafe latteās and gorgeous cinnamon swirls. It's so wonderful to just wander around and enjoy the little things.
As always, darlings, I encourage you to embrace the colour pink, grab your tutu (cyan, pink or any shade you love), and twirl your way into a happy dance! And of course, never be afraid to embrace your own personal style and celebrate the joy of ballet.
See you tomorrow, darlings!
Until then, keep twirling!
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to subscribe to my blog at www.pink-tutu.com to stay up-to-date with all my adventures and be sure to send in your ballet photos. And donāt be shy, leave me a message if youāre feeling inspired to twirl. I canāt wait to hear your stories!
