Hello my darlings! It's Emma, your pink-tutu-clad chronicler of all things twirly and fabulous, back with another post straight from the heart of Prague. I’ve arrived! As you know, my Wednesday blog posts come straight to you from the latest exotic location I've danced my way into. And this week? Well, my dear readers, this week we're waltzing through the charming cobbled streets of Prague!
I'm already utterly smitten. Imagine a city brimming with history, nestled on the banks of a magnificent river, overflowing with stunning architecture, delectable treats, and – you guessed it – an abundance of gorgeous pink tutus! This city is just begging for a twirl!
A Train Journey Fit for a Ballerina
Reaching Prague felt like a scene straight out of a ballet – dramatic, elegant, and oh so enchanting. I opted for a train journey, you see, and let me tell you, it was a magical experience. As the train pulled out of Derbyshire, a familiar sense of calm washed over me, one that only a long journey in a luxurious carriage can bring.
My compartment felt like my own private backstage dressing room. I was all prepped in my new rose pink cashmere coat with my favourite ballet flats – the kind that blend comfort and a hint of ballet magic. The view was absolutely divine! Green fields, charming villages, and a beautiful setting sun all blurring past like an Impressionist painting. I was entranced, imagining myself dancing gracefully among the fields, as if I were on the stage, except, well, there wasn’t an audience for my immaculate train carriage twirl.
Pink Tutu Prague: First Impressions
Arriving at the station, I was already struck by the unique atmosphere. The buildings, in a spectrum of colours ranging from terracotta to apricot, gave the city a warm and welcoming glow, as if Prague had donned its own glamorous costume for our arrival. There's just something so magical about cobblestone streets, you know? They seem to whisper stories from the past, inviting you to get lost in their timeless charm.
As soon as I arrived, I found myself drawn to a charming little boutique called “Bohemian Dreams”. It was brimming with all things lace, silk, and intricate detail, a perfect reflection of Prague’s heritage. You could find me browsing their collection for hours! The sheer variety was incredible: from intricately patterned skirts that would have suited a ballerina from the Belle Époque to modern interpretations of tutus with elegant silhouettes. Oh, how I adore these moments, surrounded by beautifully crafted clothes!
And naturally, I left with more than a few treasures. A beautiful lilac dress, just the right shade for a Prague evening stroll, a silken scarf printed with whimsical dancers – a nod to Prague’s deep-rooted passion for ballet – and a delicate vintage hat adorned with feathers. It just so happens I am having my photo taken today wearing the hat, by the very banks of the river Vltava, a true Parisian look! It wouldn’t be me without a sprinkle of ballet inspiration, so, you guessed it, my most important find? A pale pink tutu, designed with a simple yet elegant silhouette, perfect for my ballet walk-through Prague.
A Little Tutu History:
Speaking of tutus, you know how I love my history of ballet, especially when it comes to the evolution of the tutu. And Prague has been a major player in the ballet world for centuries! This city boasts a wealth of ballet heritage. It was in Prague in the 16th century that the modern version of ballet was born, right here, where I am standing today. They even have the original ballet hall right around the corner. Who knew? I can’t wait to visit tomorrow!
Of course, the tutu’s evolution from the practical knee-length dresses of early ballets to the extravagant garments we know and love is an absolute ballet spectacle in itself! The first short tutus, created for the ballerinas of the Romantic Era, made their way to Prague by the 1830s. Their light, flowing style, with their dainty and delicate layers, mirrored the era’s ideals of femininity and freedom. It was around the same time that the full, frilly “Bellini” tutu arrived, popularized by the dancer, Maria Taglioni, which inspired some truly stunning and opulent designs, a real spectacle for the senses. The Bellini tutu took center stage during a period in Prague when ballet was celebrated for its expressive art, with tutus used to convey a story of beauty and lightness through their elegant shapes.
Dancing Into Prague’s Culture
And I just know that I’m going to see some fabulous performances! Tonight’s the night for the National Theatre, and I am giddy with anticipation! This theatre is not only beautifully crafted with grand architecture and elegant interiors, but has a long tradition of presenting a variety of stunning ballet performances, not just classic masterpieces, but contemporary ones, too! You see, the story of ballet in Prague is woven deeply into its cultural fabric. You see this story unfolding everywhere - from grand theaters to quaint street performances – it's an intrinsic part of Prague's charm, making it feel almost like one grand ballet production!
Later this week, I have plans to visit a ballet class – I just love seeing different schools from around the world – as I do with everything I do, I’m so very curious, not to mention, I want to learn as much as I can. Plus, if I am lucky, they might even allow me to participate in the final stretch routine with their beautiful class – after all, it's always an honour to share a passion for ballet, no matter what country you are in!
Pink Tutu Adventures: Tutu Tales to Come!
So there you have it! Prague has me completely enchanted! There's so much more I’d love to share, from exploring charming cafes and quaint bookstores, to finding the best spot to grab a traditional Czech dessert. But for now, it's time for me to catch my breath and perhaps indulge in another Prague treat!
Keep your eye on the website for my next blog post next Wednesday, with more adventures from the Pink Tutu Prague – maybe I'll even be rocking the new pale pink tutu! Until then, darlings, happy dancing!
Love, Emma, Your Pink Tutu Ballerina
And remember, my dearest readers, pink tutus are not just for ballerinas! They're a symbol of joy, whimsy, and freedom, a call to twirl, to embrace your inner sparkle. Wear pink! Wear a tutu! And let your spirit take flight. *
