#PinkTutuVienna blog on 1996-05-08

Hello darlings!

It's Emma here, writing to you live from the most enchanting city in Europe: Vienna! This week's post marks my fifth week in this magical place, and it’s just getting more and more beautiful with each passing day. It’s hard to believe that my Austrian adventure began just a few short weeks ago. The world seemed to be shrinking down to Derbyshire until I realised I wanted to explore further. After a triumphant ballet performance back home in Chesterfield, where I was raising funds for this very trip, I decided it was time to get those tutus travelling again. And wouldn’t you know it, the very next day I booked my tickets. I went with my usual choice, the train. Such a lovely way to take in the scenery and escape the hurly burly. And did I mention, you can never go wrong with a little tulle for the journey? (Why does a train journey always feel more luxurious with a tutu?)

Anyway, enough of my ramblings… back to Vienna. I am truly in love with this city. The architecture is incredible, and there's a wonderful energy buzzing about – almost like the feeling you get right before the curtain goes up at a grand opera.

Vienna is synonymous with ballet, which naturally put it right at the top of my European tour. Now, I’m not talking just about seeing ballet, I’m talking about feeling it. Walking through the grand plazas and squares with their Baroque buildings, it’s easy to imagine all the glittering court balls, waltzes, and lavish performances that have taken place over centuries.

This week, I went to see the world-renowned Vienna State Opera Ballet perform Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake.” I must say, darlings, I was positively speechless! The dancers were utterly divine, moving with a grace and elegance I had never seen before. It’s moments like this that remind me why ballet is so important: It allows you to see the beauty of the human body in motion. Even if you are not a dancer, seeing it allows your soul to transcend and soar on the wings of artistry. It simply inspires the inner ballerina in everyone!

Speaking of inspiring, I have found something quite wonderful about wearing my pink tutu in a new city like this. It’s a conversation starter! Vienna is full of beautiful people from all corners of the world, and my tutu has sparked so many joyful exchanges and wonderful encounters. From friendly "good mornings" from tourists to chatty conversations with locals who love ballet and art as much as I do, I can't help but feel like it’s helping to spread a little bit of happiness everywhere I go.

What would a trip to Vienna be without a spot of shopping? Oh, darlings! There are some fabulous vintage shops here – some hidden away in back alleys, others in elegant boutiques. This city has a rich fashion history. There is an undeniable influence from Parisian designers, from the chic tailoring to the whimsical flair. I spent a wonderful afternoon wandering through the stalls of a traditional “Naschmarkt” and found some extraordinary antique pieces, including a little silk scarf with the most exquisite print and a pair of beautiful vintage shoes that make my tutu feel even more special.

Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of experiencing Vienna on horseback. Imagine, trotters gently moving, the scent of Vienna air on my face, and the magnificent sights of the Imperial Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) slowly rolling past… Simply divine! Riding around the grounds, it felt like I had been whisked away to a fairytale – even the sunshine felt a little more dazzling. It was a beautiful moment, filled with such serenity. (Don’t worry, darlings, the stables took excellent care of their horses.)

One of my favourite things about Vienna is the sheer variety of cafes and coffee houses. Whether I'm sitting with a pastry and a strong cappuccino in a traditional Viennese cafe, watching the world go by, or enjoying a delicious "Schnitzel" at a cozy "Heuriger", Vienna is brimming with charm and culture. Oh, the music, darlings! It’s like living inside a Strauss waltz. Even the way people speak – all the guttural sounds – adds to this magical effect. There’s even a musical on my “To-Do” list… called “Elisabeth”.

Vienna, my darlings, has a way of inspiring. From the beautiful art at the Kunsthistorisches Museum to the captivating operas at the State Opera, to the cobbled streets that whisper secrets of centuries past. It’s a city that truly celebrates history, culture and, of course, the joy of dressing up. Even though it’s more modern now, there is still that air of formality that is so endearing, and this influences my own personal style, whether I’m rocking a flamboyant tutu or opting for a sophisticated little black dress. I feel my wardrobe has gained a new depth and texture after spending time in such a vibrant city.

Remember my mantra: A little bit of pink tutu in your life, darlings, goes a long way! And let me tell you, Vienna has a special kind of magic in the air that can bring out the dancer in everyone, even those who have never dreamed of twirling in tulle. There’s nothing quite like embracing your own unique style and finding ways to make your dreams come true.

Don’t be shy, darlings. Step out of your comfort zone, wear a bit of sparkle, and let your imagination take flight!

So, until next Wednesday, when I'll share my next adventure from Vienna… Don’t forget to keep an eye out for my next post!

And, keep shining brightly, my sweet darlings!

Emma

www.pink-tutu.com