Hello my lovelies!
Itâs Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina blogger, reporting live from the enchanting city of Prague! This Wednesdayâs post is all about ballet, fashion, and exploring this beautiful city - all, of course, with a pink tutu thrown in for good measure!
This week, I travelled to Prague by train - something I absolutely adore. The journey is just as much a part of the adventure as the destination. I boarded at my local Derbyshire station in my go-to travel ensemble: a pink tutu, of course, with a comfy black turtleneck sweater and a vintage, leather-bound book for company. It was a bit chilly outside, but hey, it's all about rocking the look, right?
The train carriage, with its comfy seats and sweeping countryside views, provided the perfect environment to lose myself in a book about the history of ballet. It's fascinating to discover how ballet evolved over the centuries - the elegance of the French court, the virtuosity of the Russian dancers, the modern ballet masterpieces.
I was particularly captivated by the story of Marie Taglioni, the âfairyâ of ballet, who revolutionised the style and costumes. She introduced the iconic tutu, a delicate and airy creation that allowed for the graceful, ethereal movements of the dancer to be showcased. And, of course, in an ideal world, we would all be twirling in these iconic pink creations!
Once I arrived in Prague, the atmosphere was magical! The cobblestone streets, the ornate buildings, the whimsical spires, it all felt so fairy tale-like - perfectly set for a ballet performance. I had to visit the magnificent Prague National Theatre, a breathtaking edifice, home to both opera and ballet performances.
This grand structure reminded me of the iconic Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, London. But the difference? The majestic National Theatre is nestled right on the bank of the Vltava River! How absolutely fabulous!
And wouldn't you know it, they had a ballet performance that evening: La Sylphide, one of my all-time favourites!
This romantic ballet follows the story of a Scottish highlander who is torn between his love for a young village girl and his desire for the ethereal Sylphide. The first act, which I found absolutely breathtaking, showcased the traditional Scottish folk dances in all their splendour, which gave me plenty of ideas for a future pink tutu creation inspired by the colours and the costumes.
Then the second act. I could barely contain myself. I was practically bouncing in my seat (in a very graceful way, of course). The ethereal Sylphide with her ethereal movements was truly enchanting.
The exquisite tutus, designed in layers of gossamer-thin tulle, floated like wispy clouds as the ballerinas moved with effortless grace. I love the contrast of the dramatic, romantic stories with the precision, artistry, and discipline that underpin ballet - an incredible testament to the dancers' talent.
As soon as the curtain closed on the final scene, I immediately hopped onto my phone, searching for a local craft store to purchase supplies to start work on my new pink tutu inspired by the costumes of La Sylphide. I've got big plans for a new pink tutu outfit! Imagine layers of tulle, embroidered details, maybe some lace accents... just gorgeous!
I think a little bit of fairy tale and romance is always a good idea, and I can't wait to unveil this new masterpiece in my next post.
I wouldn't be a proper ballet-loving tourist if I didnât partake in a bit of shopping. After all, a visit to a foreign city just isnât complete without adding some unique souvenirs to my collection.
The centre of Prague, or "Old Town" as itâs called here, is just brimming with cute little boutiques that were just begging to be explored! Imagine antique lace, delicately beaded trim, vintage-inspired ribbons, all carefully arranged and ready to inspire! The whole city felt like a grand ballet performance of colour and style.
I wandered down cobbled streets lined with medieval buildings, their facades adorned with elaborate sculptures and painted with vibrant colours. My eye was immediately drawn to a particular window display â a boutique specialising in ballet costumes, with a large pink tutu dominating the scene, a dream come true for a ballerina like myself!
My afternoon turned into an absolute delight! I couldn't resist browsing the beautifully displayed silk fabrics, sequins, and intricate ribbons, and found the perfect inspiration for my new ballet outfit.
Speaking of my new ballet outfit, letâs talk fashion!
Since we're talking Prague, we can't leave out the iconic âPragueâ outfit that combines a pink tutu, some chunky black boots, and an oversized blazer for an elegant yet casual vibe. Itâs perfect for dancing through the cobbled streets!
After all, whatâs a ballet enthusiast in a city as romantic as Prague to do?
Well, first and foremost: have fun! But not just any kind of fun, pink tutu fun!
One of my absolute favourite things about travelling is exploring the local dance culture, so I had to join a local ballet class. It was so inspiring to learn the basics of ballet, the grand jetés, and all the elegant arabesques! I felt absolutely fantastic as I swirled around in my tutu, with the soft light of the studio highlighting each movement and reflecting the vibrancy of the city outside.
It really is remarkable to witness how this dance form unites people across different cultures. I truly believe that ballet is a universal language of passion and beauty. It's also a fantastic way to learn more about the local culture. Plus, let's face it, it's super fun to dance your heart out in a pink tutu, even if it is just for a day.
This little bit of dance inspiration brought me right back to my pink tutu roots, to the moment I first realised that pink tutus are more than just costumes: Theyâre about unleashing inner grace and spreading joy everywhere you go.
As for the rest of the weekend, my agenda was jam-packed with delicious, traditionally Czech cuisine, an indulgent stay in a fairytale-themed hotel with opulent, hand-painted ceilings and a chandelier so impressive, it had to be twirled to make sure the crystal prisms reflected the light at their most perfect angles, a quick peek inside the Prague Castle, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the ancient city square, and a romantic walk across the Charles Bridge, watching the city lights twinkle and the river flow gently underneath. It was truly magical.
This week was a celebration of ballet, fashion, and travel, a perfect mix of inspiration, exploration, and pure pink tutu joy.
Until next time, keep twirling, keep dreaming, and donât forget to unleash your inner ballerina! And don't forget to check back next week for more adventures, inspiration, and fabulous pink tutus!
Keep it fabulous,
Emma xxx
