Hello lovelies!
It's Emma, your pink-tutu-clad correspondent, back from the dazzling city of Milan. This week, I'm channeling my inner Italian diva with a week packed with fabulous finds, delectable food, and, of course, stunning ballet!
Milan, my love, you stole my heart!
From the moment I hopped off the train from Verona - such a charming town! I must write a separate post about it later! - I knew I was going to adore this stylish, bustling city.
It's always such a treat to travel by train. Such a lovely way to see the world and relax. Plus, the Italians take pride in their train system, so I can guarantee it was clean, modern and ran perfectly on time!
Arriving at Milano Centrale was like stepping into a chic fashion show. The architecture, the crowds, the energy – Milan was just as I'd imagined, brimming with cosmopolitan flair and an aura of refined style. And what better way to experience this fashion capital than by strutting down the streets in a perfectly pink tutu?
(Did I mention I adore pink tutus? You knew that already, right?!)
My week in Milan was a whirlwind of pink, fueled by the incredible energy of this fashion and ballet powerhouse. From the breathtaking shows at the Teatro alla Scala to the delicious pastries at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, each day felt like a new adventure. I can't wait to share it all with you.
Here's the itinerary:
Day 1: * *A Ballet Beauty in the City
As soon as I dropped my bags at the charming hotel with its elegant balcony (it was just pink, of course, like all things I adore! - a secret hint? My new ballet apartment, just near the river in the Derbyshire countryside. wink wink), I made a beeline for the Teatro alla Scala.
The Teatro alla Scala is one of the most renowned opera houses in the world, and for a ballet enthusiast like me, it was simply divine! I saw a dazzling performance of 'Giselle'. The music was pure enchantment, and the dancers were breathtaking, their movements fluid and graceful.
And can we talk about the costumes! They were beyond exquisite - delicate, shimmering, and utterly glamorous. Honestly, I'd love to design costumes for the Scala myself! (A Pink Tutu girl has dreams!).
After the performance, I wandered through the historic Quadrilatero della Moda district, home to some of the most exclusive fashion houses. The windows were adorned with dazzling displays of the latest haute couture creations. My inner fashionista was thrilled!
(I have an outfit coming for you soon... it's a show-stopper, it really is!)
Day 2: A Chic, Sweet Afternoon Tea
Who can resist a delicious afternoon tea in the splendid setting of Milan? Especially when there is a gorgeous view over the beautiful, ornate, Milan Cathedral - Duomo di Milano.
I took a wander around this historical centre of the city and popped into one of those beautiful Parisian tea shops you see in all the magazines.
It was an exquisite spread with dainty sandwiches, cakes, and delicate pastries, all presented beautifully. I felt like a character in a classic novel - elegant, feminine, and totally Parisian, even though it was Milan! *It was a true fashion fairytale. *
I even found a charming little shop selling hand-stitched pink tutus, just a little too similar to one of mine for me to resist... You know me too well!
I decided to wear it for an evening stroll through Brera, which is considered to be Milan's bohemian neighbourhood. It was a bit of a contrast to the sleek, sophisticated vibe of the city centre, but I loved it! The charming cobblestone streets were alive with creative energy, full of artisan shops and art galleries.
(I know what you're thinking. You need a pink tutu! I do, don't you agree?).
Day 3: Delicious Discoveries at the Mercato Centrale
There is no finer thing than being a tourist - wandering, browsing and getting totally lost in a new environment. So on Day 3, I went exploring the Mercato Centrale.
What a delightful sensory experience! Freshly-baked breads, vibrant fruit, artisan cheese, spices, pasta – you name it, they had it. The air was buzzing with activity and delicious aromas.
Of course, I had to try the famed Milanese risotto. It was creamy, comforting, and simply perfect! And the local wine? Simply Divine! I finished my lunch by sipping my espresso and soaking in the bustling energy of this vibrant marketplace.
(I need to buy a suitcase just for my Pink Tutu wardrobe! But you knew that already, didn't you? My motto? **"More pink, more life! " You heard it here first!)
Day 4: A Fashionably Late Start
Every once in a while, a girl just has to embrace a slow, relaxed morning - which is what I did. After all, life's too short to be in a rush all the time, even when there's ballet to be enjoyed!
It started with a leisurely breakfast on the balcony of my hotel. The aroma of fresh coffee and pastries, along with the vibrant energy of the city, was intoxicating!
Then I took a wander down the local cobbled street where the shops open for business in a leisurely Italian pace.
I popped in for a look at all the designer boutiques... I mean, it is Milan after all, a girl needs to be seen in style (even if she only just pops her head into a shop for a quick browse! )
I picked up some gorgeous new ballet shoes... pink of course! - to go with my beautiful new ballet leotards in pink (are you getting the pattern here?).
I'm such a romantic and I adore how this city whispers romance! I loved its chic energy. So much style and sophistication. A girls just needs her favourite pink tutu!
And for you, my lovelies, this is a big 'PINK' tip: Wear your pink tutu everywhere you go. It will transform any ordinary occasion into something special! (A Pink Tutu tip straight from Milan!).
*Day 5: * The Tram Ride
As I've said, trains and trams are my absolute favourite modes of travel. And the trams in Milan are utterly divine!
The trams are historic, often with gorgeous art nouveau styling, beautifully refurbished and comfortable, the colours are just so calming...
Of course, I had my new Pink Tutu shoes with me! You have to bring a change of shoes, for the tutu! It's practically a rule!
They were absolutely perfect, a touch of extra pink to add to my tram trip! I had to show it off. After all, Milan's iconic trams were like fashion catwalks on wheels, so of course I had to arrive in style! * What would a pink Tutu girl do otherwise?*
Day 6: Ballet School Bound!
One of the highlights of my Milan trip was a visit to a local ballet school. The dancers, mostly young, were talented beyond measure.
I just had to go in to have a peek! You can never get too much of a ballet fix, can you?!
There was such an energy there! So much talent, passion and dreams. It was infectious!
Of course, as an honorary member of the Pink Tutu brigade, I felt it was only right to do my bit to promote my favourite fashion statement.
So, as a little gift, I gave all the dancers some pretty pink ribbons. You just have to encourage the next generation of ballerinas! They were absolutely thrilled. That’s what a pink Tutu girl is about, isn't it? Spreading happiness, a little bit at a time!
It's a passion project of mine to bring a little bit of magic, fun and femininity to the world... I reckon a pink Tutu is a great way to start!
Day 7: A Romantic Last Night in Milan
This week in Milan has been amazing - and the last day was a perfect final flourish, the final touch, the crowning jewel! I headed to a nearby open air market in search of a special memento, something a little pink and beautiful for the apartment back home...
I loved watching people go about their daily business. The locals were warm, welcoming, and utterly charming, which was my favourite part about being in Milan!
I enjoyed the sounds of Italian conversations, the smells from the food stalls and watching children play. It really felt like the heart and soul of the city was just there, pulsing with energy!
That was my pink Tutu adventure in Milan
Ciao, bella Milano!
See you again soon!
You know I’ve got more pink tutu magic up my sleeve. I've got big plans for next week in Paris. *Keep an eye out for my next blog post - you don’t want to miss out! *
And now, for the exciting news about what happened this week:
(I hope I'm keeping you all on the edge of your pink tutu-covered seats!
I landed my first leading role!
*(This is exciting news even if it’s not entirely news! *Cue Pink Tutu squeals)
This means, from now on, I will be making more pink Tutu themed videos for all my social media - so get ready to see more tutus, more dancing, and more of my fun fashion ideas
For all you lovers of pink tutus and those just discovering what it’s all about! (We'll get you all rocking pink tutus before you know it!).
Stay tuned and I'll be back next week for more pink tutu fashion and travel fun.
Stay sparkly!
Lots of Love, Emma Xx
Pink Tutu Blog: www.pink-tutu.com
