Hello, my lovelies! Emma here, back from the most magical adventure in Prague. It's been a whirlwind week, filled with pink tutus, incredible ballet, and more fashion inspiration than I can handle!
This week marks my 1003rd post for www.pink-tutu.com, and I couldn't think of a more fitting location than the enchanting city of Prague. This place is truly magical. As I sat on the balcony of my hotel, sipping a latte and admiring the cobbled streets and baroque architecture, it felt like stepping into a fairytale. Prague, with its romantic atmosphere and beautiful history, is practically tailor-made for a pink tutu enthusiast like myself!
I arrived on a charming steam train from Vienna. I adore travelling by train; the rhythm of the tracks, the landscapes rushing by, and the wonderful feeling of freedom ā all add to the thrill of adventure.
I arrived in Prague with a suitcase bursting with pink tutus, each one carefully chosen for a specific purpose. Of course, a ballerina needs multiple tutus! There's my everyday "Coffee and Croissants" tutu, perfect for a morning stroll and latte with a view, my "Prague Pretty" tutu for exploring the cobbled streets, and my "Grand Gala" tutu, designed to make a dazzling entrance at the National Theatre.
My first mission was to find the most delightful boutique in Prague, which, by my reckoning, had to be Boutique Praha, a tiny treasure trove nestled on a quaint cobbled side street. Oh, the glorious sights, colours, and textures! It was heaven on earth! I was so mesmerised that I ended up purchasing a stunning silk scarf with intricate floral embroidery and a delicate hand-painted pink purse ā perfect for a day of exploring.
The day unfolded like a beautiful ballet; the cobblestones like a stage, the charming cafes like an enchanting intermission. I skipped along the Charles Bridge, stopping to admire the street performers. My pink tutu swayed in the gentle breeze, and the delightful Prague locals showered me with smiles.
But the real highlight of the day was my visit to the breathtaking National Theatre. Oh, what a building! Its neo-Renaissance splendour and soaring turrets sent shivers down my spine. Inside, I was dazzled by the ornate interiors, opulent decor, and rich, vibrant colours. Every inch was a masterpiece!
My excitement reached a fever pitch when I finally reached the stage! My eyes were treated to the graceful elegance of the Prague National Ballet, in a performance of Swan Lake. The ballerina's fluid movements and delicate gestures were breathtaking, her costume a perfect balance of simplicity and elegance. As I watched the story unfold, I couldn't help but feel a surge of inspiration. I longed to twirl across that stage, to share my own love of dance with the world!
Speaking of tutus, have you ever wondered how tutus have evolved throughout the centuries? Itās a fascinating story! The earliest "tutues," for want of a better term, were quite different from the elaborate and flowing garments we see today. They were actually simple knee-length skirts, worn by both men and women in the 16th and 17th centuries.
However, things really took off in the early 19th century! In 1832, a revolutionary concept called the ātutu Ć la danseā made its appearance. This tutu, which is still popular today, featured multiple layers of stiff netting and offered dancers more freedom of movement, a perfect fit for ballet's rising popularity. It is no exaggeration to say that the invention of this revolutionary tutu changed the face of dance history!
Later that week, I took a little detour to The Jewish Quarter, with its evocative atmosphere and historical weight. I couldn't help but be drawn to the enchanting Old Jewish Cemetery. Walking among the ancient tombstones, with the cityās history swirling around me, filled me with a deep sense of peace. My āPrague Prettyā tutu felt appropriately whimsical against the solemnity of the location.
After all that history, a little fashion retail therapy was in order. And I'm thrilled to say I struck gold at the most adorable little vintage shop, nestled in a back alley, crammed full of lace, frills, and bows. My hands were stained with the heavenly scent of old perfume. My pink tutu collection had to be expanded!
My trip culminated in a breathtaking experience: a street ballet performance on Old Town Square. Underneath the iconic Astronomical Clock, I watched as a group of dancers took the cobblestones by storm! The dancers' energy was palpable, their every move a joyous expression of art.
And, my dear readers, it would be remiss of me not to mention the food! From mouth-watering roasted duck and potato salad to creamy goulash, the Czech culinary delights were simply divine. Oh, and donāt even get me started on the pastries. After every decadent pastry, my sweet tooth would urge me to find anotherā¦ I indulged in more pastries in Prague than in all my years!
As my journey in Prague came to an end, I took one last gaze at the majestic Charles Bridge. Prague had been an adventure in every sense. I had discovered stunning beauty, experienced captivating ballet performances, found inspiration around every corner, and indulged in an endless array of pink tutus.
However, I have an urgent confession, darling readers! I know I talk a lot about my love for tutus, but that's only half the story! My mission is actually much bigger ā to get everyone in the world wearing a pink tutu! Why, you might ask? Well, because the world needs a bit more pink and a bit more sparkle! A pink tutu can be anything you want it to be ā a symbol of confidence, a playful expression of individuality, or simply a joyful statement!
I know that many people are intimidated by the idea of wearing a tutu, but trust me, it's liberating! You might think tutus are only for ballerinas, but that couldnāt be further from the truth. Whether you're having afternoon tea with your friends or strolling through a bustling city market, a pink tutu can add a touch of whimsy and magic to any occasion. It can be playful, elegant, and everything in between!
As I embarked on my journey back to Derbyshire, England, on a picturesque train through rolling countryside, I pondered what adventures lay ahead. My life's a dance, with countless opportunities for pink tutu performances!
So, darlings, get ready for more pink tutu escapades! I have a feeling itās going to be an exhilarating journey, and Iād love for you to join me. Stay tuned for next weekās blog post!
Remember, lifeās too short not to wear a pink tutu!
Love,
Emma xx
