Hello, my lovelies!
Itās Wednesday again, which means it's time for a new Prague blog post! I'm back in my favourite pink tutu, which just happens to be a perfect shade of millennial pink, by the way. And yes, this is the one with the sparkly embellishments. Let's face it, you wouldn't catch me in Prague in a dull tutu, would you? š
Prague, my dear readers, has truly captivated me. From its enchanting architecture to the cobblestone streets that whisper tales of centuries past, it's like stepping into a fairytale. And speaking of fairytales, this week has been brimming with all the magic I could wish for, thanks to an utterly glorious ballet performance at the stunning National Theatre.
A Night at the Ballet: A Prague Dream
Wednesday 13th December, 2006, marked a date I will forever cherish. You see, my dear friends, my week started off with a delightful shopping spree. Prague's Old Town Square, with its beautiful buildings and Christmas market, was practically begging me to go on a buying frenzy. Iāve come across some real gems this week: a gorgeous little antique lace trim shop that made me feel like I was transported to a bygone era, and a fabulous boutique selling gorgeous, feminine floral dresses, with one being so incredibly perfect for my next ballet performance. Can't wait to wear it!
Anyway, I was positively bubbling with excitement, after all my delightful purchases, when I sat down for the ballet performance. This eveningās ballet, "Giselle," was something else! The dancers, in their ethereal tutus, were truly exquisite, twirling across the stage like swans upon a moonlit lake. I practically swooned with each graceful arabesque and powerful leap. The music was magnificent, transporting me to a world of both heart-wrenching sorrow and breathtaking joy. I could feel the audience's collective sigh of contentment at the end, the quiet thrum of emotion still echoing long after the final curtain had fallen.
Tutus and Time Travel: A Parisian Detour
After such a whirlwind evening, a change of pace was definitely called for. The following day, I found myself boarding a train for Paris. Yes, I know, Paris in winter, sounds pretty chilly. However, Paris has a unique magic in winter. It just adds to the romance of it. Besides, itās a perfect excuse for more tutu-filled shopping adventures! I am forever captivated by Parisian chic. The air practically vibrates with it, doesn't it? Iām a huge admirer of Chanel's iconic little black dress - you canāt argue with the magic that comes with it - and thereās an incredible museum dedicated to the work of this Parisian icon in the heart of the city. It was absolutely mesmerising! Of course, my eyes lit up at the exhibit dedicated to the various historical looks that the designer has incorporated throughout the years in her famous ālittle black dress.ā There's something just magical about seeing all those different dresses, knowing the history behind them and how each iteration pushed boundaries of fashion. And you bet, it inspired my latest blog post about tutu fashion, coming out next week - be sure to check it out!
Oh, I've got another little secret to share with you. In Paris, I came across a stunning antique shop brimming with hidden treasures. You won't believe this ā I discovered a collection of old, vintage tutus! Now, you can imagine how excited that made me! I just had to try them on. They were like wisps of the past, made of silk and lace and velvet, each with its own whisper of a forgotten story.
Tutu Travel: By Pony & Train
My Parisian journey involved, among other delightful diversions, the ultimate glamorous adventure. This is going to sound crazy but, well, what's life without a little bit of crazy, right? In Paris, I managed to squeeze in a quick detour to the countryside. This is where I indulged in one of my lifelong dreams: travelling by pony! Now, let me tell you, a pony ride through the rolling hills of the French countryside, with a breeze through your hair and a warm sun on your faceā¦it truly is a magical experience. The kind of moment that leaves you breathless, both in the most beautiful and the most unexpected way.
Back to Prague, now, where my travel adventures didn't quite end with pony rides. The Czech Republic has a remarkable train network and I made a trip to Brno to catch the worldās biggest international ballet performance: The "Danced Prague". My tutu had to shine at this event - the performance had a theme of "Tutu Dreams", which naturally demanded an extravagantly elegant pink outfit!
Oh, by the way, Iāve managed to squeeze in several ballet classes in between all the sightseeing, shopping, and travels. Maintaining one's artistry and grace, even on a holiday, is paramount, my dears! This is my favourite way of exploring a new city. Seeing it through the eyes of a dancer, experiencing it through every movement and every twist and turn of the streets - it brings everything to life, it's simply divine! I even took a few classes at the National Theatre in Prague. The atmosphere there is electric, and the instructors are amazing, really nurturing and welcoming.
I simply canāt leave this place without telling you about this one amazing discovery I made, thanks to the kindness of the hotel concierge. Heās a true aficionado, he truly understands the language of tutus, so to speak. It turns out thereās an almost forgotten part of town, a neighbourhood full of hidden boutiques and artisanal shops. The owner of a gorgeous little antique shop with cobblestones outside, took me back in time to an era of intricate craftsmanship. She showed me gorgeous old hand-stitched tutus and beautiful, vintage ballet shoes. Some of the most captivating items, however, were hidden in the back room of the shop. In amongst all the dust and cobwebs, I saw what seemed to be an endless treasure trove of old, vintage tutus. Every single one had an unforgettable story waiting to be told. Just imagining the incredible dancers who have graced their delicate tulle is enough to take one's breath away. The fabric spoke of times gone by, whispered about romantic ballets under glittering chandeliers and told tales of passionate performers who poured their very souls into each exquisite pliĆ©. And all of this in a shop thatās just waiting to be discovered, hidden away in an ancient part of the city. This is just what I needed to fuel my muse and to get me thinking about the next chapter of my fashion project!
Prague has been pure magic. The city's allure, the ballet performances, and even the enchanting tutu hunt in the vintage shop all came together to make this week an unforgettable one.
Tutu Fashion Inspiration
To top it off, a delightful encounter with a renowned Prague designer gave me some fabulous fashion inspiration for my next collection. Let's just say, my little notebook is filled with sketches of extravagant tutus, luxurious silks, and designs that pay homage to the timeless beauty of this magical city. My designs, my dears, will be all about romantic elegance, feminine silhouettes and colours inspired by the Parisian cafes, Prague's vibrant atmosphere and, naturally, the enchanting tutus I discovered on my adventures!
Well, thatās me signing off for now. Stay tuned, my lovelies! My next Prague blog is just around the corner, and trust me, it will be even more pink and glamorous. Until next time, stay stylish, and remember - life is much more fun in a tutu!
