Hello my darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad adventurer, Emma, and this week I'm bringing you the glamour and the glitter from the absolutely magical city of Prague!
It's been a while since I’ve graced these pages with my travels, what with all the busy-bee rehearsals for the upcoming "Nutcracker" performance in Derbyshire. However, the moment I stepped off the train – a gorgeous old steam-powered beauty, of course, which took me through some of the most charming countryside I've ever seen - I knew I was in for a real treat!
Prague, oh Prague! With its cobbled streets, fairytale architecture, and charming cafes that serve delicious pastries alongside steaming mugs of hot chocolate (all while watching the world go by!), it feels like stepping straight into a storybook.
This week’s journey marks the start of a delightful tour of Europe's most impressive ballet companies. It was just too exciting not to share it all with you, so, as usual, I’ll be keeping my dear blog readers up-to-date with all the fashion, fun, and, of course, ballet delights!
Now, this week's adventures start, quite appropriately, with a visit to Prague's grandest ballet performance - "Giselle"! Oh, the exquisite choreography! I nearly wept tears of joy (of course, my pink-tutu stayed firmly in place!), and the music was simply sublime. The National Theatre, with its beautifully gilded decor and plush velvet seats, is definitely a sight to behold - it even inspired a bit of impromptu ballet-ing from me during the interval, much to the delight (I hope!) of the surrounding audience.
Speaking of tutus… I have a special treat for you this week! My trusty sidekick (who also doubles as my photographer, the fabulous Freddie, the one and only!) snapped some stunning photos of my outfit for this show! (Oh Freddie! That boy truly understands how to work his camera - or should I say, his lens?!) It’s a stunning cerulean tulle confection, with swirls of pink and a scattering of hand-sewn, shimmering silver crystals - a truly captivating masterpiece. (It wouldn't be complete, of course, without the pièce de résistance, a pair of fluffy pink ballet slippers). My absolute favourite! I shall, of course, share a little peek with you on the pink-tutu.com website very soon. Just for you, darling readers.
However, it wasn't all just dancing and pretty dresses.
A real highlight was a fascinating afternoon spent at the Prague National Theatre museum! Now, don't be fooled by the name, my dear friends - this museum isn't all dusty relics. They actually have a magnificent collection of ballet costumes from the early 19th century - tutus before the tutu! Now that is some fashion history I could really get behind. It turns out the tutu is not a completely new concept, even in my beloved, rosy shade! I even caught a glimpse of some stunning drawings of famous ballerinas from the early 1900s - truly inspiring!
Speaking of inspiring… did you know that the famous Italian ballet master, Carlo Blasis, actually made his mark in Prague in the 19th century?! Prague's history is literally interwoven with ballet history. I spent hours, dear readers, just reading the old pamphlets and notes, learning all about Prague's historical connection with dance and costume.
Speaking of costumes, I am positively delighted by the fabulous fashion scene in Prague. Forget chain stores and identikit styles. This is the city for genuine, stylish boutiques that showcase exquisite vintage clothing, bold bohemian designs, and oh-so-chic leather and fur coats.
After my delightful museum excursion, it was time for some serious retail therapy! Now, for any tutu enthusiast out there, Prague is heaven. The city is awash in designer boutiques and vintage shops, all showcasing unique, one-of-a-kind clothing. I snagged some dazzling ballet-inspired necklaces, perfect for the ballerina-in-the-making within me (as if it needed any encouragement!) and found the most fantastic pair of red lace-up ballet shoes - a dream come true!
The night's performance wasn't only limited to the National Theatre. I absolutely loved Prague's street scene! It was full of captivating dancers, some in stunning, elaborate costumes and others sporting bold, modern designs - a symphony of dance that truly embodied the energy of the city.
Let’s Talk Tutus…
Now, every fashion enthusiast knows that the right dress is vital - but I can’t simply talk about fashion without bringing up tutus, can I? The tutu is more than just a piece of fabric - it's a symbol of dreams, grace, and joy. I mean, what says 'whimsical, glamorous, and utterly delightful' more than a big, fluffy, pink tulle skirt, twirling around?
For those of you who are a little unsure about dipping your toes (pun intended!) into the wonderful world of pink tutus, let me give you a little peek into the magic. Pink is about fun, and confidence and joy. It’s all about showing your unique flair, your inner beauty and personality, and making a statement. Think sparkle, think feminine, think fierce, and remember - wearing pink doesn’t mean you have to be a ballet professional. Let's spread that love of pink tutus far and wide!
That’s all from me, my dear readers! Remember, stay pink! And check out my website www.pink-tutu.com for my latest update on my adventures and fashion finds! Until next Wednesday, may your days be full of dancing, sparkling dreams, and all things pink!
With lots of love (and pink), Emma xx
