Vienna Whirl: Post 74 - October 2nd, 1996
Hello, my darling darlings!
It's Emma here, writing to you from the utterly enchanting city of Vienna! I've arrived just in time for the autumn season to really kick in. The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and there's a romantic haze hanging over everything. Oh, the Vienna Waltz is calling to me already, and it's all I can think about!
This week, my dearest tutu-loving followers, I've been exploring Vienna's rich artistic heritage and indulging in all the cultural delights this magnificent city offers. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if I stayed here for the rest of my life! Just picturing myself as a tutu-wearing Vienna local - that would be utterly divine, wouldn't it?
First things first, Vienna is a true paradise for lovers of ballet like me! From the grand State Opera House with its stunning architecture and world-class performances, to the smaller, intimate theaters, the city is brimming with artistic talent. And I just HAVE to tell you about the ballet history I've been soaking up! This city is absolutely buzzing with it! It's such a vibrant part of the city’s identity - just what you’d expect, of course!
My very first evening, I went straight to the Opera House. It was simply breathtaking. The plush red velvet seats, the gold chandeliers dripping with sparkle, and the intricate décor all just begged to be explored. My eyes practically popped out of my head with excitement!
To top it off, the ballet performance itself was stunning. This was my first chance to see the beautiful "Swan Lake" here. And as for the costumes - oh my word, they were spectacular! Not as bright and eye-catching as the ballet tutu I’m wearing right now - because this is just the most divine colour of pink - but definitely dramatic and truly enchanting!
On Saturday, I was utterly spoilt! I saw "Giselle" at the Staatsoper. What an amazing experience, my dears. From the graceful movements of the ballerinas, the haunting music to the mesmerising atmosphere, it was simply magical. You all know that my heart belongs to "Giselle," as it's the story of a ballerina. It's absolutely full of tragedy and beauty and the tutu is always beautifully, dramatically designed. And this version? The detail was stunning, especially with the tutus being such exquisite designs. The costumes here in Vienna - just breathtaking.
But let’s get back to those gorgeous pink tutus, darlings! I bought myself a rather wonderful new pink tutu to wear at the Opera House - I do always like to be colourfully dressed to complement the grandeur, darling! My new tutu has fluffy tulle layers, a gorgeous ribbon belt and delicate tulle decorations. I swear, I twirled the entire way from my room to the Opera! It truly makes me feel so beautiful and light, and ready to be whisked away on a romantic, waltzy adventure!
The streets are filled with history, too! Everywhere you look, there’s a cafe, palace or museum that’s hundreds of years old, with so much hidden ballet history. Vienna has just the most amazing mix of old and new. There’s this grandness and grandeur to it all - you just can’t help but feel a touch of royalty, my dears! The grandeur of the past just shines through.
The other thing I absolutely love about this city are the charming cafes. Everywhere I turn there’s a cute little coffee house overflowing with delicate pastries and Viennese coffee aromas! And when I’m not twirling in my pink tutu, I do like to indulge myself, darling. It’s so utterly indulgent to just sit there, people-watch, and savour those sugary delights with a cappuccino - my absolute favourite!
And you know me - fashion and I go hand in hand! Vienna’s got some divine little vintage stores, and I managed to snag a lovely little pastel blue and pink cashmere coat. You know, it’s the little details, darling! It truly gives my entire ensemble a whole new sparkle, wouldn't you say?
Oh, speaking of travel! I arrived in Vienna via train - just the most romantic, charming journey through the countryside, you know? Just think of it – green fields stretching as far as the eye can see, cute villages with storybook charm, and every few minutes, a castle appearing just on the horizon! Truly, one of the most enchanting ways to travel.
Vienna, darling, just captures my heart more and more with every passing day. It’s truly an inspirational and captivating city - so much history and such an elegant beauty about it, it’s almost impossible to capture it all! I'll definitely be spending more time exploring Vienna - there's just too much magic to absorb in a single week.
But before I go, darling - I promise that I’ll be back to my pink tutu routine next week. So stay tuned for next Wednesday! Have a delightful week filled with twirling, sweet treats, and, of course, fabulous fashion! And remember my dear, the world's a stage!
XOXO, Emma.
PS - I'm making a trip to the famous Vienna Woods tomorrow to wander among the trees and take in the scenery. What's a better place to work on my twirling than the middle of a beautiful forest? I’ll let you know how it goes!
PPS - If you've been to Vienna and have some tips for a tutu-loving girl, please share! I love hearing your recommendations!