Hello, darlings! Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu Princess, reporting live from the most magical city in Europe… Prague!
I've arrived here on the wings of a flurry of pink tulle and a delightful train journey that felt like stepping into a vintage postcard. You see, dear readers, Prague holds a special place in my heart - the cobbled streets, the dreamy architecture, and of course, the enchanting world of ballet!
Prague: A Ballerina's Dream
From the moment I stepped off the train and inhaled the sweet air, I knew this was going to be a special week. Everything feels like a fairytale here, with the cascading golden domes of St. Vitus Cathedral and the whispering Charles Bridge taking my breath away. And let's not forget the cafes, overflowing with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and decadent pastries - pure ballet fuel!
Speaking of fuel, my mission this week is to immerse myself in the magic of Prague, from exploring the legendary ballet halls to getting my hands on some beautiful tutus in the city's fashion boutiques. I've already got a plan to take a private ballet lesson in a grand, chandelier-filled studio, complete with a velvet-lined practice bar that whispers secrets of legendary dancers!
Pink Tutu Shopping Spree!
Before diving headfirst into ballet class, I just had to pay a visit to Prague's most exquisite boutiques. After all, a ballerina's wardrobe requires a delicate balance of grace, practicality, and a sprinkle of fairytale charm! Imagine my delight when I found a tiny, vintage shop tucked away in a cobbled alley, overflowing with shimmering sequins, luxurious silks, and delicate lace. I couldn't resist snagging a beautiful, blush-pink tutu for my class tomorrow – it's so exquisitely crafted, it practically dances on its own!
The History of Tutus: A Whirlwind Through Time
While I was in the vintage store, I got chatting with the owner about the history of tutus – did you know that the earliest form of a tutu, a shorter, lighter version than what we see today, was actually called a tutu-à-la-française ? It's true! It first appeared in the Romantic era and was made of soft, sheer fabric. Talk about elegance!
Over the centuries, tutus evolved with styles ranging from the more flowing and romantic designs to the shorter, more fitted tutu worn in modern ballets. There are even some really fascinating tutus created for specific roles, like the legendary black tulle tutu for Swan Lake, or the playful tutu used for the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker.
I’m thinking of maybe finding a vintage shop that specializes in costumes for a blog post later in the week, if you’re interested!
Ballet Magic on the Charles Bridge
But enough about the history! This afternoon, I'm heading to the Charles Bridge. I hear it's known as a bridge of romance, a place for street performers and musicians to showcase their talents, and with a little bit of imagination, I’m convinced I'll see some graceful ballet performances! Just imagine… graceful leaps and pirouettes under the arches, a flurry of pink tulle as the river reflects the setting sun – utter perfection!
Stay tuned for my ballet class adventures!
Don't forget to check back next Wednesday for a look at my ballet lesson in Prague – it's going to be an enchanting, sparkly extravaganza! In the meantime, tell me your favourite memories from your own travels! Where are you headed next?
Love and pink tutus,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
