Hey, lovelies! It’s Emma here, back from another fabulously twirly adventure! Today I'm whisking you off to the charming town of Hornchurch in Essex - my journey was by train of course, it's so much more glamorous than the tube and, let’s be honest, you get to see much more of the countryside - you never know what beautiful critters you might spot along the way ( last week I saw a whole family of rabbits hop right next to my window, absolutely adorable)!
So, I'm wearing my brand-new (and unbelievably cheap) tutu! I know what you’re thinking, ‘Emma, you’ve been living in a tutu for weeks now! How can you justify another one?’. Well, it's a vintage number I picked up in a little independent shop in Nottingham, just for a fiver - and it’s in my favorite shade of pale pink! It’s all frills and lace, oh so floaty and twirly and perfectly suited to the vibrant energy of this place, don’t you think?
Today's outing is a delightful mixture of all things tutu - a gorgeous ballet show, a quick dance class, and then a scrumptious afternoon tea in one of Hornchurch's cutest cafes. I'm so excited, the schedule is pretty packed, but I can’t wait to fill you in on all the details and of course, give you a good dose of my #PinkTutuStyle tips for any ballet loving adventurer, along the way.
Now, where to begin?
#TheBalletShowcase The theatre was just stunning - beautiful red velvet seats, amazing acoustics - it was such a joy just being there. I was blown away by the skill of the dancers, they moved with such effortless grace. The repertoire was a fascinating mix - classic and contemporary pieces, all perfectly performed and captivating to watch. There was a particular piece, where the ballerina spun with the most breathtaking speed, I couldn't take my eyes off her – so elegant and strong, it really brought a lump to my throat. It's a testament to the power of dance to touch our emotions, you know? And the costumes! Well, one was literally dripping in jewels and glitter, absolutely spectacular, it inspired me to go wild in the sequins department myself, maybe for my next tutu venture, what do you think?
#ClassIsBackInSession After the ballet, I simply couldn’t resist the temptation of a dance class myself. You know, I get the strongest urge to get moving when I’m surrounded by such incredible talent! I'm so lucky - I found a delightful little ballet studio just a few minutes’ walk from the theatre, where I managed to slip into a beginners’ class, no problem, thanks to my twirling skills. I actually got compliments from my instructor - imagine my surprise! Turns out the pink tutu and my over enthusiasm really makes a positive impact (especially when you try to impress your instructor with a particularly dramatic relevé – whoops!) Anyway, the class was loads of fun and a really great reminder of the basics – after all, we all have to start somewhere, right? And when I do some simple pliés now, it always makes me think of the ballerina I saw, it feels much more meaningful now that I understand just a little bit more about the art and craft of ballet!
#Hornchurch Treats
To keep my sugar levels at the required ‘ballerina level’ and fuel the rest of my day, I had a very girly and quintessentially English afternoon tea, in the cutest little tea room with quaint wicker chairs - think chocolate eclairs, strawberry macarons, and scones with clotted cream – absolutely divine! I even had the sweetest little pink macaroon for dessert, in honor of, you guessed it - the pink tutu, of course!
#AdventuresContinue The rest of my time in Hornchurch was pure enjoyment – I got to explore the delightful town, find an incredible bookshop filled with dance books (yes!), indulge in a slice of Victoria sponge and of course, snap a million photos! Every corner seemed to hold a new surprise and the warm friendly atmosphere was infectious. I was already feeling like I belonged there! It's a perfect escape, full of hidden gems and real character! I’d love to tell you about it in more detail - but that might have to be in another blog post – oh the horror! It's time to move on and take on a new city!
#WhatToWear So, if you're feeling inspired to embrace the pink tutu and head out on an adventure, here’s a little fashion tip from me - for the Hornchurch adventure:
Keep your outfits simple and feminine: think ballet-inspired silhouettes in soft colours - like creams, blues, pastel shades - perfect for matching with pink tutus and looking effortless and chic, no matter where you’re going.
Comfort is key – I like to keep it practical and easy - but always a splash of colour!
Remember a good handbag ( I love to match it with my tutu of course, a great way to add a little bit of personality), something that's big enough to carry your ballet essentials: hairbrush, hair spray, water bottle - the lot! And, don’t forget your ballet shoes – the cutest flats are always handy for the odd performance in the middle of the day, you just never know!
#NextDestination
Okay lovelies, I’m off again. Next up - York! I hear they have the most amazing chocolateries – maybe that means it’s tutu season there! I can’t wait to find out! Stay tuned, I promise to share the stories, all the yummy food pictures, and even a little dancing, all wrapped in a whole lot of pink tutu love.
See you all very soon!
Lots of love,
Emma.
www.pink-tutu.com
#PinkTutuAdventure #TutuTravels #BalletLover #GirlyGirl #Adventure #DanceLife #EmmaOnTour #Hornchurch #BalletLife
