Ciao Bella! It’s Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu wearing ballet blogger, reporting live from the fashion capital of the world - Milan!
The Christmas lights are twinkling, the air is crisp, and the scent of panettone wafts through the streets. Milan is truly a city that embraces the festive season, and I am positively glowing with holiday cheer, and let's face it, a whole lot of glitter!
This week has been a whirlwind of ballet bliss and stylish discoveries. It’s so hard to fit it all in. You know me, I love nothing more than experiencing a city's culture and atmosphere through its ballet scene. Milan has certainly not disappointed.
Ballet Bliss: The Bolshoi Ballet at the Teatro alla Scala
I kicked off the week with a true highlight - seeing the Bolshoi Ballet at the Teatro alla Scala. I'll be honest, I was a tad nervous - the Scala has a reputation as a monument to opera and ballet, a temple of artistic excellence. And to my delight, every single minute lived up to the hype.
The production was of “Swan Lake.” This is probably my all-time favourite ballet. I've seen it countless times, in so many different interpretations, but this one… well, let’s just say I shed a happy tear at the final curtain. The Bolshoi dancers are breathtakingly talented - their athleticism, their expression, the way they seem to defy gravity… simply magical! The sheer artistry of the costumes and sets added a further layer of enchantment.
Afterwards, of course, a little pre-theatre Italian aperitivo at the Bar Centrale (I love their selection of classic Italian cocktails!). This is an absolute must-do before heading to any theatre in Milan. Just make sure you arrive a little early to secure a table in this popular, historic, chic bar!
Milan, Fashion Capital, Get Your Pink Tutu On!
Next up, it was a whirlwind dash around some of Milan's most iconic fashion houses, where, you guessed it, I had to find a new pink tutu (just in case!).
The shops in Milan really do tempt you to indulge your inner shopaholic! I adore all things Valentino (pink, you see) and a certain Gucci bag caught my eye… I can’t tell you which one just yet (I love keeping a little surprise up my sleeve, so I'll share a full haul blog post soon!).
Speaking of a little surprise, you all know I love a good vintage find! I scored some seriously cool statement earrings at a quirky vintage shop on Corso Buenos Aires, perfect for adding a touch of vintage charm to my favourite tutu! I think you all will agree… those pieces were made for a photoshoot. (Remember, the pink tutu fashion revolution is about taking ownership of your style, being unapologetically fabulous!)
Travelling the Italian Way: Tram Adventures
Of course, exploring Milan wouldn't be complete without some serious tramming adventures. I'm utterly enamoured by the vibrant red tram network in Milan - it’s such a charming, efficient, and above all, glamorous way to get around.
(By the way, did you know that Milan has a vibrant network of tram routes - some dating back to the late 1800s?! That is a historical gem!).
I adore finding a cozy corner by the window, and as I travel through the city, the trams feel like rolling stages. Watching Milan pass by with its intricate architecture, its bustling streets and the chic crowds. I often see little glimpses of ballet inspiration. There is so much inspiration for a tutu-loving fashionista!
A Date with Ballet History: Teatro Arcimboldi
This Wednesday, a special treat awaits! I’m going to witness a ballet performance at the Teatro Arcimboldi.
This theater is not a famous landmark like the Teatro alla Scala, but it has its own distinct charm! Designed by the legendary architect Mario Bellini, this venue was opened in 2002. They have ballet, opera and theatre shows all the time. I am not sure what performance I will see today, I prefer to have a surprise! I'm definitely going to snap a few photos of the striking architecture for you!
Foodie Delights: Delicious Discoveries in Milan
Of course, no Milan trip would be complete without some culinary adventures. This city is a culinary paradise, with mouth-watering pizzas, pastas, and delectable pastries. I simply have to try them all. My goal, this time round, is to find the best panettone in the entire city!
I've been indulging in creamy cappuccino mornings, traditional lunchtime risotto with local mushrooms, and some tiramisu which left me utterly satisfied… and needing more. I will certainly tell you all where I found the tastiest treats… in due time of course!
Life Lessons from a Pink Tutu: It’s About Living Every Moment
Speaking of indulgences… why wait for the perfect occasion to slip into your favourite pink tutu and unleash your inner ballerina? Milan has reminded me to embrace the joy of every single moment! Whether I'm exploring the streets, admiring a breathtaking performance, or indulging in a delicious meal… I try to soak it all in, with a happy heart and a smile on my face.
I always try to encourage you all to find your own happy dance, to own your inner sparkle! And it all starts with just one simple step: stepping into your very own pink tutu!
See you all next Monday with another instalment from Pink Tutu Milan!
XOXO
Emma
P.S. Make sure you keep up to date with my Milan adventures, find me on @PinkTutuMilan on all social media platforms! #PinkTutuMilan #MilanAdventures #BalletBlogger #ItalianCulture #TutuTime
Further Adventures in Milan - And A Special Guest Post!
Okay, I just had to tell you more! My Milan adventure didn't stop at the ballet and the shops... I have so many fun and fabulous discoveries to share. But instead of simply adding a big chunk of text to this blog, I’m going to do something exciting and share the love with one of my favourite fellow ballerina bloggers, Laura. She has an amazing blog too, www.thesparklelife.com - you need to check it out, but Laura has promised to write a special post just for Pink Tutu Milan, a guest post for you! Laura shares the blog-love back with me! I think you are going to love her writing. Laura’s post will appear next Monday too!
You’ll be hearing from Laura about some of the fun we had:
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: It was a must - this amazing glass-roofed arcade shopping centre is so beautiful and a truly stunning slice of 19th century architecture.
Street Performers: We were fortunate to see some brilliant ballet performers out on the streets - what a reminder that passion and talent shine through in all sorts of places.
The Fashion Districts: Naturally, we hit up the Via Montenapoleone fashion district! I know that it is just beyond luxurious and you wouldn’t believe the exquisite displays of some of the designer shops.
Milan’s Incredible Art Scene: This city isn’t just about shopping and food – there are amazing museums and galleries too! Laura fell in love with the art on display at the Pinacoteca di Brera, which houses Italian masterpieces (and she was absolutely stunned by some of the paintings from Caravaggio!)
Aperitivo Culture: We of course enjoyed the Milanese “Aperitivo Culture” with the special drinks (including Aperol Spritz of course) with small dishes. So stylish! I always find it’s the most glamorous way to start the evening.
Ballet and Christmas in Milan
My goodness, I do love sharing the magic of this fabulous city with you all… especially during the holiday season. If you’re thinking about making a trip to Milan this year, my top advice is to visit the Duomo (Cathedral). The Duomo is beautiful at any time, but during December it's truly magnificent.
The Natale in Milano celebrations will be taking place through the city right now. With festive markets and decorations everywhere. Don’t miss out on a magical visit.
So now, I leave you with this: if you find a little bit of Pink Tutu magic somewhere in your life today… let me know! Share your own #PinkTutuMoment on social media.
Until next week!
XOXO
Emma
