#PinkTutuVienna blog on 1996-06-19

Greetings, dear tutu enthusiasts! This week's blog finds me ensconced in the captivating city of Vienna, Austria. This enchanting metropolis, famed for its grand palaces, delectable pastries, and a rich musical heritage, has truly stolen my heart. And who could resist a city that embraces both the majestic waltzes of Strauss and the elegant swirl of a tulle skirt?

This week in Vienna has been a whirlwind of cultural exploration, delectable indulgence, and, of course, an abundance of tutus!

The reason for my Austrian adventure, you might ask? A breathtaking performance by the Vienna State Opera Ballet! I'd heard whispers of their artistry and elegance, and oh, were those whispers true! Their rendition of "Swan Lake" was nothing short of mesmerizing. Each graceful pirouette, each heartfelt arabesque, and every breathtaking lift, was executed with a passion and precision that left me breathless. And the tutus! The delicate fabric, the painstaking detail, the perfect fit - a true testament to the artistry of both ballet and couture!

After the show, I was lucky enough to catch a quick word with one of the principal dancers. We chatted about her training, the magic of dance, and, of course, tutus. She was just as passionate about her art as I am about mine, and it was truly inspiring to hear about her journey.

After that evening's ballet performance, I felt a pang to delve further into Vienna's illustrious history of dance. And what better place to begin than the Vienna State Opera House itself? This majestic structure, a monument to artistic excellence, is steeped in history. As I walked through the grand halls, imagining the legendary dancers who once graced its stage, I was transported back to the golden age of ballet.

Of course, my quest for tutus continued! I found a charming vintage boutique near the opera house, filled with delicate antique lace and forgotten fabrics. The shopkeeper, a lovely lady with a twinkle in her eye, showed me her prized possession: a 19th century ballet tutu, exquisitely crafted with delicate lace and satin. A truly beautiful piece of history, it was like a whisper from the past, a tangible reminder of the power and enduring legacy of ballet.

But you know me, I'm not just a fan of the classical, I love finding tutu inspiration in the everyday! Vienna's streets are teeming with vibrant life and artistic flair. I even spotted a young couple dressed as swans, their tulle skirts billowing as they waltzed down the cobblestone paths! Talk about tutu street style!

Then, I stumbled upon a captivating fashion display at a charming boutique on Kärntner Strasse, Vienna's main shopping boulevard. A magnificent display of frothy tulle gowns in shades of lavender and blush pink, a truly heavenly sight. This boutique reminded me that the power of tulle and the feminine grace it embodies knows no bounds. And what could be more fitting than finding such inspiration in the heart of a city that embodies both beauty and artistic spirit?

No journey to Vienna would be complete without savouring its culinary delights. Every corner held a new, enticing fragrance of freshly baked strudel or Sachertorte. As I explored the bustling city, I was lured by the tempting aroma of warm apple strudel with cinnamon, and couldn't resist indulging in a slice, the warm buttery pastry perfectly paired with a delicious Viennese coffee.

The food wasn't the only thing I fell in love with! Vienna's grand cafes with their intricate Art Nouveau interiors, opulent pastries, and lively chatter provided a perfect space to rest my tired feet and jot down my latest blog entries. It was all a bit like a fairytale, filled with whimsical charm and sweet treats!

I chose to travel to Vienna by train, a romantic way to see the world at a more leisurely pace, and to admire the countryside. The train ride from Derbyshire to Vienna took about 14 hours, but it was worth it! There was something magical about watching the landscape change, and knowing I was embarking on a new adventure. I settled in my compartment with a book and a cup of tea and simply enjoyed the ride.

Once I arrived in Vienna, I felt the need to truly embrace its enchanting history. So, what better way to explore the city than in a traditional horse-drawn carriage? With the clatter of hooves against cobblestone, the gentle swaying of the carriage, and the romantic atmosphere of Vienna all around, I felt like I was in a vintage movie. It was a perfect way to experience the city's romantic charm.

My dearest tutu enthusiasts, you know I love pink. You know I love tutus. But my love doesn't stop there, it extends to the wider world. I truly believe that everyone can be empowered by a touch of tulle!

In Vienna, I even saw a group of women dressed in pink tutus, their faces beaming as they twirled and giggled. Seeing their joy made me feel truly happy and I knew I was spreading the love of tutus and a little bit of sunshine to Vienna! This city is clearly receptive to the magic of pink tulle and the empowering joy it brings!

And while I may be thousands of miles from home, the connection we have through our shared love for pink tutus, makes the distance feel much less! Thank you for reading, my dear friends! I'll continue to share my Vienna adventures, my passion for dance, and the wonders I discover on my tutu-filled journey. Until next Wednesday!

With a twirl and a smile,

Emma

www.pink-tutu.com