Ciao, darling! ?? Emma here, reporting live from the fashion capital of the world - Milan! You guys, the pink energy here is just electric, like the lights in the Duomo (which I just know are a hundred percent on the pinkest setting possible, wink, wink!) And that, my little pink tutu princesses, is why I'm starting off this post with a confession: this city... she's stolen my heart!
Now, I know what you're thinking, “Emma, but you were just here last week! You love Paris, too, haven’t you been gushing about London non-stop?” You’re right, you're absolutely right. I'm a true globetrotter, my dears. But Milan has a different sort of magic. The air here smells of delicious espresso, laughter, and oh-my-goodness, what's that I smell? Yes, definitely couture and perfume! The people here are so stylish, the streets buzz with a mix of fashionistas, art enthusiasts, and the odd, dashing street performer.
Let's be honest, even the tramlines here have an undeniable chicness about them. Imagine, a sleek red tram whisking me past stunning architecture and quaint cafes – each time, I feel like I’m stepping onto the set of a perfectly curated, pink-tinted film.
But hold on, my pink petal darlings, before you get lost in the romance of it all, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. This past week has been a whirlwind of ballet, shopping, and – because it wouldn’t be me otherwise – pink. Lots and lots of pink! Let me tell you, darling, finding the right shade of pink in Milan is an experience in itself. They’ve got blushing blush, blushing rose, and… oh gosh, it's just too much to take in, but trust me, they have pink down to an art form here.
*Speaking of art… *
Let's talk ballet, because it’s the true heart of what brings me to all these magical cities. Last night, I finally saw Giselle, at Teatro alla Scala. Now, everyone knows about La Scala’s legendary status in the world of opera, but they put on some sensational ballet productions too. You guys, the theatre itself is so beautiful; the red velvet, the ornate carvings, and – surprise, surprise – those delicious shades of pink. You just feel all “ballerina, ballerina, ballerina" inside as you step into that gorgeous space.
The ballet was simply phenomenal, an incredible story about betrayal, heartbreak, and a touch of the supernatural, all beautifully told through dance. I actually found myself tearing up a little (but not, like, sobbing. I'm not that much of a cryer, ha!) It was all so emotional and so incredibly moving, from the ballerinas’ graceful steps to the music's haunting beauty.
Speaking of music, can we just appreciate the absolute artistry of the orchestra here? They were truly enchanting. Every instrument sang with a vibrancy that filled the entire theater, bringing a new depth to each note. You felt every movement, every story unfolding through their masterful performance.
You’re probably thinking, "Emma, why are you just now posting about Giselle? It was, what, Thursday night? Girl, we need the details! How did you even score tickets?”
Let’s just say I know how to get around. A girl can work her magic when it comes to opera house ticketing, especially when she knows the ins and outs of Milan’s arts scene (and when you have enough money, my loves). I may have been a tiny bit early and strategically friendly to a very charming ticket lady. ? But hey, isn’t it all part of the pink tutu magic?
Let’s get back to our lovely journey through this vibrant, vibrant, pink-filled Milan. And guess what else I've been up to, besides ballet and fashion (which are actually intertwined at every turn in this city)?
Drumroll You guessed it: more pink! I have the best little tea room nearby that boasts the prettiest, most whimsical décor imaginable, from the delicate china teacups to the fluffy pink velvet couches, it’s a real Instagrammable delight (although I've gotten so tired of that word, the whole social media scene, but this tea room was amazing)! I even had to sneak in my tutu and snap some pictures (of course)! You’ll see a few photos on my social channels soon.
I have been enjoying my new favourite little pasta joint - it’s got the most delicious spaghetti alla carbonara I’ve had in a while (with the cutest little pink bow adorning every single dish!) Seriously, the Milanese obsession with pink goes to a whole new level here! And honestly, I’m here for it.
And you know, there's just so much more to discover. I finally managed to snag an appointment at that iconic department store in the heart of Milan. I can't tell you the name yet (my lips are sealed!), but just trust me, this is the type of department store that’s all about impeccable service, beautiful displays, and an overwhelming sense of “need it, need it, need it”. And naturally, a plethora of pink delights. It's honestly like being in a pink-hued wonderland, complete with little fashion fairy godmothers and (slightly more practical) but equally elegant, little bow-adorned sales associates (wearing the most stylish uniforms!).
It's a girl's dream, darling! I spent a good few hours exploring, making sure I walked the whole of the fashion floor - after all, who knows what treasures await? But oh darling, let's just say it wasn’t all rainbows and cupcakes (I know, so cliché, but oh so true!) I'm not gonna lie, I did splurge a little on some serious new ballet shoes and a whole stack of new tutus. The real prize? It was a limited edition ballerina skirt made by some new independent Italian designer that has a whole line dedicated to - what else? You guessed it! Pink tutus.
You already know I love pink. My blog, my whole world. It is simply magic, but this pink tutu-wearing ballet dancer loves being able to wear it out in the world.
Speaking of magical, did I tell you about the gelato I had yesterday? Gelateria dei Sogni. The name itself is enchanting. Every flavor was perfection – mango, pistachio, and – yes, you guessed it – Rosa. And it tasted just like what you imagine: a symphony of delicate floral notes with just a hint of sweetness. Seriously, even if you’re not into pink, you'll want to go and get your hands on this dream come true. (Plus, the store has beautiful pink painted walls and adorable pink umbrellas hanging from the ceiling!)
Ok, okay, I'm getting a bit carried away here. I know you’re thinking Emma, stop with the pink already (But why would I ever want to? Honestly, why?!) However, let’s move onto something even better…
Milan is filled with hidden gems, but these are two spots I just had to share with you:
1. The pink Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
This architectural marvel, is so iconic - a true testament to beauty and grace. Its beautiful glass dome floods the entire space with natural light (making my pink tutu absolutely sing, if I do say so myself). This shopping paradise hosts a wide variety of stores - from luxurious brands to cozy little independent shops, all adorned with sparkling chandeliers, elaborate carvings, and, of course, some magnificent displays of the one colour I just can't resist. It’s the perfect place to spend the day shopping, admiring, and perhaps grabbing a cup of coffee (because, frankly, the caffeine’s necessary for the sheer amount of prettiness you are going to witness!)
2. The Pinacoteca di Brera
And speaking of pretty, did you know this art gallery houses some stunning masterpieces by Italian masters, such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Mantegna? It's a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. You know I love all the classics and oh-my-goodness the Brera was spectacular. Just the exterior of this gallery is magnificent, with its creamy-coloured stone walls and an archway framing its entry that almost begs you to walk through. The building itself seems to be holding its breath until you come and discover it.
I was able to wander through the gallery’s elegant hallways (imagine ornate cornices, marble floors, and beautiful wood-paneling! sigh) and it almost feels like time has stopped inside those walls - such peace and beauty!
I know you all know how much I love museums, galleries, art, and culture. This one had it all!
Oh, almost forgot! It was on Friday that I was exploring some nearby towns - Como and Lake Como. We're getting very close to that stunning spring weather (I'm dreaming of wearing my tulle-filled tutus outside!). Of course, you'll see my blog photos very soon! I'm so happy with how those photos turned out! My whole instagram will be going pink with a whole Milan fashion lookbook.
Ok, darlings, it's time to close off. It's 3:02 am and I’m tired. I’ve got some big exciting things coming up in the next few weeks, but all will be revealed in due time! In the meantime, remember that I love you, I appreciate you, and my biggest hope is that you’ll all find the perfect pink tutu for you, for whenever and wherever your heart desires!
Until next week! ?
With love, Emma xx
P.S. Let me know in the comments which place you want me to explore in Milan - I’ll do a full post next week for all my #PinkTutuPrincesses! I’ll make it all about your favourite place and how you can experience a little of that Pink Tutu Magic for yourselves!
