Hiya darlings! It's Emma, your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina blogger, and this week's blog post is all about the ultimate intergalactic adventure! Imagine, if you will, a trip to Earth, a swirling vortex of cultures, breathtaking nature, and oh my, the shopping! It’s like a vintage ballerina’s dream come true.
Let’s rewind the clock back to 2002, 15th May, to be precise. A little birdie – or rather, a space-faring flamingo – tipped me off about this little gem of a planet called Earth. It seemed like a perfect stop-off on my tour. I mean, let's be real, it’s been ages since I’ve enjoyed a spot of ballet on this little green jewel, and I was feeling serious pangs of longing for the cobbled streets of London, a trip to the V&A, and perhaps a spot of vintage tutu shopping.
But first, a bit about my grand voyage. As always, I chose to travel by my trusty spaceship - she's called "Pink Sparkles" (what else?!). And you'd never guess the fabulous look I chose for my intergalactic voyage? It's a dazzling custom-made sequined pink tutu with holographic tulle! (Naturally, it complements my matching sparkling pink space helmet and space-worthy pink stilettos perfectly)… and of course, a huge pink-fringed scarf to make an entrance fit for a ballerina princess. I know it sounds over the top, but you wouldn’t catch me rocking anything less glamorous for an interplanetary flight!
Anyway, back to my journey…
Landing in London, the capital of England, was quite the experience. My pink space helmet was attracting quite a lot of stares – in fact, I received several enthusiastic waves from school children – how cute are they?! This vibrant metropolis seemed like the perfect location for a bit of intergalactic exploration, and who better than this ballerina blogger to explore the vibrant and fascinating cultural hotspots of this beautiful city?
Of course, it was only fitting to spend my first day in London experiencing a little bit of history – and, of course, a dash of vintage tutus for good measure. What better place than the Victoria & Albert Museum? This haven for artistic and cultural treasures has an absolutely beautiful display of historical costumes. The lace, the silk, the tulle – all in perfect harmony. I must confess, a visit to the museum wasn't complete without a good old pink tutu hunt. (Remember that vintage pink tutu obsession I mentioned earlier? Well, it never really goes away.)
You wouldn’t believe the amazing antique lace I spotted at Aphrodite’s Attic in Covent Garden that afternoon. What luck! It’s absolutely perfect for a new design - just imagine a shimmering pastel-pink tutu made entirely from it. Just wait and see… you're going to love it! (Plus, the little shop had the most delightful antique pink ballet slippers - totally my new favourite purchase!)
My second day in London had me falling head over heels for the iconic London Palladium theatre. It’s a historic, glittering, glamorous theatre that makes any ballerina feel special. And that evening was no different! I couldn't resist seeing Billy Elliot the Musical - the tale of a working-class boy who dares to dream of dancing - it had everything from emotional punchlines to breathtaking ballet sequences – definitely the most emotional theatrical experience of my life! I even found myself tearfully reaching for my pocket tissues… a testament to the beauty and power of ballet if you ask me!
Now, let’s talk ballet… it just so happened that I was in town when the Royal Opera House was putting on a spectacular production of Swan Lake. You know that this ballerino always loves a bit of classic ballet – the beautiful choreography, the romantic plot – and it’s no wonder I burst into a spontaneous fit of ecstasy. You have to see this show live. And the fact that the Royal Ballet is based here completely sealed the deal. They have a history of iconic and breathtaking performances, and for me, the London ballet scene really has it all!
There's also this beautiful thing called the English National Ballet which is located at the gorgeous Sadler’s Wells Theatre. (Now, this is the ultimate experience – watching a ballet in a historic setting… ahhh, it makes my soul happy)
After three wonderful days of shopping, performances, and soaking up the local vibes, I really didn’t want to leave London. I've been to many amazing places in the galaxy but London is in a league of its own – the city never sleeps. The energy here is so contagious - there’s a creative whirlwind everywhere you look! So much inspiration for my pink tutu designs…
Speaking of inspiration… you wouldn't believe what fascinating ballet performances I saw in London! A beautiful show at the Lyric Hammersmith, with choreography that seemed to dance right through the air! It left me wondering, how can dancers be so fluid and so gracefully in sync with their bodies?! It really is a talent that requires endless dedication and practice.
The most wonderful part of this trip has been re-discovering my passion for ballet… seeing all of these incredible dance schools – the atmosphere, the sheer talent – the vibe – it all just makes my heart sing.
But for now, it’s goodbye for now to Planet Earth. (But don’t think it’s goodbye forever! I have to get back to those lovely shops in Covent Garden).
If you’re ever lucky enough to travel to Earth, London, and especially if you have the luxury of seeing a ballet, don’t hesitate to pick up a sparkly pink tutu on your travels! It'll make your time here magical – I know it does for me.
Remember, my lovelies, ballet is a language of expression and passion, and my pink tutu is a symbol of joy, creativity, and individuality. I believe that everyone in the universe can express their unique charm and individuality by embracing their inner ballerina and donning a beautiful pink tutu. So let your inner sparkle shine!
Keep sparkling, darlings!
Lots of love,
Emma (the Pink Tutu Ballerina)
Now, for something fun and a bit more personal!
You know how much I adore pink. This week's pink inspiration comes from the amazing Sarah Jessica Parker – yes, you guessed it, the Carrie Bradshaw of Sex and the City fame!
You can’t deny she has impeccable style – and her love of pink is no secret! Her iconic wardrobe features countless fabulous pieces that are all shades of pink. And just last week, at the Met Gala (a big fancy fashion party in New York City) she graced the red carpet in a gorgeous, blush-pink Dior Haute Couture gown. Absolutely divine!
Of course, a true fashionista never stays stuck in one season or one style – you’ve gotta mix things up. And just because I’m crazy for pink doesn't mean I don't also have an absolute thing for anything vintage – oh, the treasures hidden away in shops and flea markets… especially those antique tutus! I'm forever on the hunt for the perfect pink tutu from a different era - they just sparkle differently, don’t they?
Speaking of sparkling, a big shoutout to all the little ballerinas reading this! (Yes, you, little dancers!). Whether it’s the twinkling lights of a theatre or the spotlight at a performance – don’t ever stop dreaming. There's something truly special about ballet…it’s more than just dancing. It’s about pushing yourself, being strong, and expressing yourself through art. Don’t ever forget to be yourself, to embrace that little dancer inside of you, and wear your tutus proudly. (The brighter and pinker the better, my little dancers!)
Fashion Update: My absolute favourite store at the moment is the London flagship store for Debenhams, a beloved British department store. And what’s their latest line? A stunning collection of tutus – that’s right, my lovelies – perfect for ballet classes and everything sparkly. My newest must-have is the Debenhams’ "Rose Garden" Tutu (with the most exquisite pink tulle) – It's giving ballerina fairy, darling.
But there’s even better news. In celebration of this blog post – (drumroll… please… the universe holds its breath…) I’m giving away one lucky reader a Pink Tutu of their choice from Debenhams’ Rose Garden Collection! Yep, you heard that right, ladies! A free tutu just for being you. All you have to do is leave a comment on this blog post telling me your favourite shade of pink!
Well, that's all from me for now. It's back to planning my next trip – where do you think I should go? Let me know in the comments! Don't forget to leave your pink suggestions so you can be entered in the giveaway.
Happy pink tutu shopping, my lovelies!
Lots of love,
Emma (the Pink Tutu Ballerina)
www.pink-tutu.com