Bonjour mes amies! It's Saturday, the sun is shining (almost!), and guess what? I'm in Paris! 🇫🇷 This fabulous city has been calling my name for months, and thanks to a particularly successful run of performances at the Derbyshire Arts Centre, I've finally been able to answer its siren call.
My journey started in good old Blighty, more specifically, in the bustling heart of Derby. As usual, my luggage was overflowing with tutus (you can never have too many!), my ballet shoes (essential for a quick twirl in the Jardin du Luxembourg), and of course, enough shades of pink to make even the most ardent colour-phobe reconsider their stance.
Speaking of pink, did I tell you about my new travel companion? She's a little vintage suitcase with a sweet little pink floral print – a total vintage find from a market in Bakewell (the perfect place for a pre-Paris pastry pit stop!). We look rather dashing together, if I may say so myself!
But let's talk about the real star of the show – the Eurostar. What a dream! Stepping onto the gleaming train in St. Pancras International was like stepping into a cinematic scene. Sleek carriages, plush seating, and even free wi-fi so I could post a few Parisian outfit updates for my darling readers. It was all so glamorous! And then there was the view… as the countryside whizzed by, my mind raced with excitement for the adventures that lay ahead.
Two hours later, and voilà, I arrived in Paris. Stepping off the train at Gare du Nord was like stepping onto a set – the cobblestone streets, the vibrant energy, the aroma of fresh croissants... It truly felt like a scene from a ballet, complete with its own soundtrack of honking cars and excited chatter.
My accommodation for this week is a charming little Airbnb right in the Latin Quarter, nestled among cafes, bookshops, and charming Parisian apartments. The walls are lined with vintage posters (I spotted a couple of ballet prints!) and it has a balcony overlooking the street. The best part? A breathtaking view of the Sacré-Coeur basilica in the distance – just perfect for enjoying a cup of French coffee while planning my day.
Today's plan involves exploring the iconic Eiffel Tower – it’s my first visit and I can barely contain myself! I'm also determined to find the perfect Parisian beret. It wouldn’t be a trip to Paris without one, would it? (Just picture me: Pink tutu, beret, and a smile that could melt the Eiffel Tower itself).
And naturally, no trip to Paris would be complete without a ballet show. My research has revealed a delightful performance at the Opéra Garnier – a feast for both the eyes and the soul. I'm also planning a visit to a Parisian ballet studio to brush up on my skills – never let a girl forget her ballet!
Stay tuned, my darlings, as I fill you in on my Parisian adventures. Next week's post will be filled with all things chic: vintage shops, delightful cafes, and of course, a fabulous French breakfast – maybe even in my pink tutu! I can't wait to share it all with you.
Until next time,
Bisous,
Emma 💖
The Pink Tutu Chronicles: Post 1337 – Paris, Paris, Je T’aime! 💖🗼Alright, my dearest Tutu Tribe, brace yourselves, because today’s post is a Parisian extravaganza. From shimmering ballet shows to cobblestone wanderings, I’m bringing the magic of Paris right to your screens!
La Tour Eiffel
I started the day with a whirlwind trip to the Eiffel Tower, an experience I’ll never forget. Standing before its majestic iron structure was absolutely awe-inspiring. I felt like I’d stepped into a storybook. We took the lift to the top for panoramic views of the City of Lights. My darling readers, trust me, Paris truly lives up to its name. From the Champs-Élysées to the Seine, every vista was breathtaking, making me want to twirl with delight. I just HAD to take a few twirls, ballet dress and all, atop the iconic structure.
Beret hunting in the Latin Quarter
After the Eiffel Tower, we made our way to the charming Latin Quarter, my quest: to find the perfect Parisian beret! Imagine my excitement when I stumbled upon a hidden treasure of a vintage shop crammed with hats from every era imaginable. I found my perfect beret (a deep burgundy, naturally), nestled amongst a collection of feather boas and vintage brooches. This beret will become my constant Parisian companion!
A Parisian Ballet Experience
Oh, how I dreamt of seeing a Parisian ballet. Last night, that dream came true at the glorious Opéra Garnier. I slipped into my pink tutu (because what’s a ballet without a little sparkle?) and stepped into a world of grace and beauty. The performance was a stunning interpretation of Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake – such delicate choreography, such powerful storytelling. The audience was completely captivated, just like I was. The air hummed with a shared appreciation for the art. I felt every twist, every jump, every delicate nuance with the rest of the audience, and I know my ballet training has served me well in truly appreciating these stunning dancers!
Dinner in a Parisian cafe
The highlight of today? A delightful Parisian dinner at a cosy bistro with white tablecloths, flickering candlelight, and delicious cuisine. As the aroma of roasted duck wafted through the air, we were surrounded by a symphony of sounds – lively conversations, the clinking of glasses, and the rhythmic melodies from the local busker playing his accordion. My companions were charmed by my love for French fashion and ballet. The world seems to truly fall into place when enjoying good food and good company!
Pink Tutu in Paris
You guys know I love pink tutus, and I’m so thrilled to share that my love for this unique garment has taken root here in Paris! The Parisians seemed charmed by it too! It’s hard to explain, but the city just begs for a twirl. Maybe the charming streets, the vintage cafes, the beautiful parks… or maybe, just maybe, it’s a secret pact I’ve made with this wonderful city to spread a little bit of joy, pink, and twirling magic everywhere I go!
As the day winds down, I can’t help but feel completely in love with this beautiful city. From the bustling boulevards to the hidden alleys, Paris has captured my heart and filled me with an immeasurable amount of inspiration. But I’ll save that for another blog post! I’m still working on figuring out the magic of the pink tutu and Parisian elegance, so until next Saturday!
Bisous,
Emma 💖