Hello my dearest tutu-loving friends!
It’s Emma here, and this week, I'm swirling into Prague, the city of spires, charm, and…oh, the shopping! As always, I've got my trusty pink tutu packed, along with my oversized sunhat, a bevy of glittery ballet flats, and enough lipstick shades to match every pink on the colour wheel!
Travelling in Style
My journey began in Derbyshire, where the fields are ablaze with autumn colour, much like my wardrobe, and where the air has that crisp bite that makes me crave a warm latte…and maybe a little Viennese waltz in a tutu! I've been a huge fan of train travel for ages. It's so wonderfully civilised, with time to read, admire the countryside (and dream about all the ballet shoes I might find in vintage shops!), and enjoy the friendly chat of fellow passengers. This trip, though, saw a slight twist - for the first leg of my journey, I had the delightful experience of travelling by pony!
Yes, you read that right! A darling little mare called Rosie, whose pink bridle matched my tutu perfectly (pure coincidence, of course!) helped me reach the railway station in a charmingly unique way. It's not every day you get to travel in style on the back of a horse, and let me tell you, Rosie certainly knows how to make an entrance!
Prague's Enchanted Embrace
The Czech Republic always makes me feel like I've stepped into a fairytale, and Prague is no exception. With its winding cobbled streets, whimsical architecture, and fairytale castle perched atop the hill, it's no wonder they call this city the 'Golden City.' Even the air has a hint of magic!
I've already explored some of the captivating corners of Prague - the magical Charles Bridge, a vision of ancient stone and charming sculptures, the vibrant Old Town Square with its historic clock tower, and the enchanting Old Jewish Quarter, filled with ancient history and fascinating architecture. Everywhere I look, there's something beautiful to catch my eye!
Ballet Bliss in Prague
Of course, no trip to Prague would be complete without experiencing the magic of the city's ballet scene! And what better date for a ballet-themed adventure than October 8th, 2025? This evening, I'm eagerly anticipating the exquisite performance of Giselle at the historic National Theatre. It's the perfect ballet for Prague – filled with haunting romance and a delicate blend of classical grace and passionate storytelling. I’m already planning my outfit! I think a layered, billowing tutu in shades of blush pink and silver will do the trick, don't you?
But before I get lost in the beauty of Giselle's ethereal world, let’s rewind for a moment and chat about this fantastic city's connection to ballet history.
Prague’s Ballet Tapestry: History Unfurled
Prague, a city that seems to dance through time, has a rich and varied ballet history. For centuries, it has embraced the art of dance, evolving from the elegant courts of the Holy Roman Empire to the dazzling stages of its iconic theaters. From the grandeur of baroque ballets at the Royal Court in the 16th and 17th centuries to the rise of the first Czech National Theatre and the blossoming of a local ballet tradition, Prague has been a key player in the evolution of European dance.
And if I'm talking about history, we simply can't forget the humble beginnings of our very own tutus!
From Paris to Prague: Tutu Tales
These gorgeous, floaty dancewear staples didn't spring into existence fully formed! The early tutus were far less delicate, looking more like a modified underskirt – think practical and functional over flamboyant. It wasn't until the mid-19th century, under the vision of legendary ballerina Marie Taglioni, that the tutus we know and love began to evolve, becoming a symbol of graceful athleticism. Their popularity soared in the 1800s, reaching far beyond the stage, influencing fashion in unexpected ways. The iconic pink tutus – a hallmark of childhood dreams – followed suit.
Here in Prague, where fashion meets history, I can almost feel the echoes of these ballet beauties whispering through the cobbled streets, the whisper of tulle and the delicate sway of the ballerinas.
A Pink-Tinted Shopping Spree!
And now for something fabulous! Shopping in Prague is an adventure itself! From charming little boutiques nestled amongst centuries-old buildings to designer havens, I'm truly spoiled for choice! I'm already plotting my pink purchases, and I have a feeling I’ll be needing to send myself a second suitcase home!
Here are a few of the must-see shopping spots in this magnificent city:
The Old Town Square: It's not just for fairytale photo opportunities, you know! It’s also bursting with eclectic stalls brimming with traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Keep an eye out for those exquisite glass baubles and unique hand-painted wooden toys that make perfect gifts for my dearest ballerina friends back in England.
Národní Třída: This chic street is Prague's designer district. I'm imagining the gorgeous window displays of designer boutiques, overflowing with haute couture tutus that make my ballerina heart skip a beat!
Celetná Street: For the discerning eye, this historic lane, tucked away in the Old Town, is home to antiques, vintage treasures, and charming bohemian shops, each more unique than the last. Who knows, I might stumble upon the perfect vintage tutu, just waiting to be restored and rediscovered!
Prague's Pink Embrace
What I've learned this trip is that Prague embraces its colourful personality, with a playful sense of fun and unbridled love for beauty, which aligns perfectly with my own motto: life’s too short for beige, my darling friends! We all deserve a touch of pink sparkle, a playful attitude and a graceful stride. So go on, channel your inner ballerina and join me!
Let me know what you think of my pink Prague adventures! Join the conversation by posting comments on my blog at www.pink-tutu.com Don’t forget to share your ballet memories and pink tutu stories – let’s inspire a tutu revolution, one pink twirl at a time!
See you all next Wednesday!
**Yours in pink tutus,
Emma**
