Hello, darlings! Emma here, fresh from a whirlwind trip to Prague, where I indulged in a delightful mix of ballet, shopping and a sprinkle of bohemian magic. This week's blog is extra special because it was my very first time experiencing this enchanting city! It was everything I dreamed of: cobbled streets, breathtaking architecture, delicious pastries, and a captivating cultural scene. But let's get down to the nitty gritty, shall we?
Prague's Ballet Bonanza
It wouldn't be a Pink Tutu adventure without ballet, now would it? This trip was particularly exciting, as the National Theatre in Prague hosted the 17th International Ballet Festival. Can you imagine my excitement, darling? So many breathtaking performances, so little time!
On the 22nd of December, I twirled into the grand theatre, a beautiful building adorned with sculptures and frescoes, and it immediately felt like stepping into a magical fairytale. The show I attended, Giselle, was utterly enchanting. The passion, the grace, the captivating story! It truly captured my imagination. It wasn't just the dancing that had me entranced though. The stunning costumes, the grand sets and the sheer talent of the dancers made for an unforgettable experience. The romantic tale, with its haunting sense of loss and the sheer power of love, sent a chill right down my spine, which I just adore, and left me utterly moved.
Speaking of romantic chills, darling, do you know how many adorable little tulle skirts and tulle dresses they wear? Imagine my joy at spotting that much tulle! I simply couldn't resist snapping up a pink, tulle mini-skirt at a lovely boutique nearby. The skirt was simply irresistible – a pale, almost blush pink, so perfect for a Parisian soirée or a trip to the Viennese Opera House. You know how much I love tulle! It's the perfect fabric for a true ballerina’s wardrobe. I’m dreaming up a Giselle inspired photoshoot.
* Bohemian Boutique Shopping Bliss*
After the show, I strolled along the cobbled streets of Old Town Square, marvelling at the twinkling Christmas lights and soaking up the festive cheer. The whole city is adorned in twinkling lights. The atmosphere was magical, but it’s Prague's architectural splendor, like its historic bridge, which had me spellbound. Just think, darling, those stone archways witnessed generations of waltzing and even some pretty remarkable historical events! My feet, quite predictably, took me to a quaint vintage shop crammed with fabulous finds. You won't believe what I snagged: a 1950s ballet book, chock full of elegant drawings, and an authentic porcelain ballerina ornament, which is now the pièce de résistance in my dressing table display. Imagine, the history that those fragile china arms have witnessed! I’m dreaming up some kind of ballet tea party and I’m so in love with this exquisite figurine, I don't even think I want to pack it!
The next day, my inner shopper simply had to unleash. I lost myself in the trendy boutiques of the Prague’s designer district, where I discovered a veritable treasure trove of chic Parisian accessories. I'm still obsessing over the pearl necklace, its delicate beauty complementing a vintage tulle dress from a tiny independent designer. Darling, you have to trust me when I tell you: if I don't look the part, the pink tutu just won’t work, will it?
* Pink Tutu at the Cafe*
And where else could a pink tutu enthusiast dine in Prague than the world-famous Café Slavia? Its bohemian atmosphere, its artistic heritage - it was utterly romantic. It's said to be frequented by some of the greatest minds of the 20th century. Can you imagine sitting there sipping capuccinos, watching the world go by? You never know who you might bump into at this extraordinary, historic coffeehouse. They even had a beautiful pink tutu-inspired ballet scene on one of the cafe’s art nouveau ceiling mosaics, and I practically had to sit at a table next to it, it felt meant to be. My cup was filled with a beautiful, dark and slightly sweet latte. Just what you need after a day exploring a truly magnificent city!
Train, Train, A Travelling Tale
Prague’s storybook appeal really transported me back in time, but this girl had to return to England and the train, as always, was the perfect way to get back. And honestly darling, what better way to travel than by train, with its nostalgic glamour? In my case, especially since it has its very own romantic pink carriages. What could be more romantic, dear? My train carriage windows framed rolling landscape that unfolded before me - verdant valleys and picturesque villages - just the kind of views that inspired the ballerinas of the late 19th and early 20th century. I can’t imagine anything more inspirational than a beautiful landscape on my journey back. I’m also a great believer in a stylish train outfit, you know, darling. And it was a full ballerina affair - from my tulle dress to a pair of patent pink ballerina flats, the look was simply perfection.
*Pink Tutu on the World Stage *
Now, darling, as you all know, a pink tutu is not simply an outfit – it’s a statement. It's a symbol of grace, passion and the power of dreams. It embodies a love for dance and its magical ability to bring joy, not just to the dancers but to every soul it touches. In this blog post, it's the symbol of a journey that took me from Derbyshire, England to Prague, where I indulged my love of ballet with a grand performance at the National Theatre and found the ultimate vintage tulle skirt!
Each Wednesday, I invite you to join me on my journey to explore the wonders of the world, the beauty of ballet and, of course, to spread the love of the pink tutu! What else could you possibly need to be truly happy?
Until next Wednesday, darlings! Emma
P.S. If you’re ever in Prague, let me know, and maybe, just maybe, we could even catch a ballet together! I’d love to know what kind of ballerina looks you are all creating!
