#PinkTutuVienna blog on 1997-02-12

Hello my lovely tutus! It's Emma here, your pink-loving, tutu-wearing, Vienna-based blogger, bringing you another slice of delightful European enchantment!

Today's the 12th February 1997, and I'm absolutely bubbling with excitement. Why? Because my beloved Vienna is putting on a dazzling show – the Vienna Opera Ball! Now, I know what you're thinking, tutus and an opera ball? Surely a clash? Absolutely not! This is Vienna, where tradition and whimsical extravagance walk hand in hand like the most delightful waltzing couple.

The Opera Ball is an absolutely divine spectacle, a celebration of Viennese elegance and waltzing grace. And you know me – I can't resist a good waltz! I’m lucky to have scored a couple of tickets for the evening with a lovely couple I met while sipping afternoon tea at Demel's - how charming! They’re Vienna locals, experts in everything from opera to the best Sachertorte in the city (though I suspect Demel's holds that title!).

Today’s post is actually all about Vienna and its delightful waltzing charm. I've been enjoying every single moment of this incredible city.

Speaking of waltz… this city is just brimming with dance history! Did you know the waltz originated in Austria? This lively, sweeping dance revolutionised the European dance scene in the 18th century, sparking a passionate waltz-mania that spread like wildfire across the continent. Imagine the delight! You couldn't turn a corner without being swept up in the dizzying romance of it all!

Here in Vienna, the waltz reached its peak. The waltz's elegant sway was an instant hit with the Viennese, quickly becoming an inseparable part of the city’s vibrant culture. I even heard a story that Empress Maria Theresa, the Habsburg Empress of the time, tried to ban the waltz because it was a bit too "passionate"! Can you imagine? A queen trying to stamp out all that swirling, romantic joy! Thank goodness that didn't stick!

Now, I’m quite fond of the park – in fact, it's one of my favourite places in Vienna! You could get lost in the enchanting green labyrinths and stunning floral displays of the Stadtpark, taking a pause every so often to admire a monument. And of course, you’d be doing all of this whilst enjoying the wonderful cityscapes and the sounds of lively chatter and sweet melodies from musicians tucked away amongst the trees. I adore those quiet musical moments – they feel almost magical!

In the centre of this enchanting park stands the majestic Johann Strauss monument – the famous Austrian composer and a man who epitomized the spirit of the waltz! I imagine he'd be delighted to see how alive the waltzing tradition remains in this city – just looking at this monument fills me with an indescribable joy. Of course, I couldn’t resist a twirl or two right beneath his watchful gaze – it felt a bit like waltzing with a waltz legend himself!

And what better way to take in the spirit of this historic city than to take a horse-drawn carriage ride? Picture this: a romantic, trotting carriage ride along the Ringstrasse, with Vienna’s architectural grandeur unfurling all around. That's pure fairy tale stuff, wouldn't you say? The perfect moment for daydreaming about tutus and waltzing under the Austrian stars!

A trip to Vienna simply wouldn’t be complete without some delightful fashion escapades! I've been making the most of the incredible shops here, especially around Kärntner Straße which is a veritable haven for everything stylish and unique! Every window I passed has been tempting me with stunning colours and whimsical designs! My current love is a lovely pink silk top - oh, how the pink perfectly reflects the delicate blooms of spring that are just starting to appear across the city! It's the most beautiful blend of springtime joy and Austrian charm! I'm so excited to twirl around the Stadtpark wearing this top for my evening waltz!

Of course, no Vienna fashion experience would be complete without visiting Demel’s. They're renowned for their exquisite chocolates and pastries – it’s impossible to resist their allure. Today, I had to treat myself to their heavenly strawberry tarts and a perfect cup of English breakfast tea. It was so delicious – the perfect start to my Vienna opera ball adventures!

And now, on to the opera ball! I'm envisioning the most dazzling evening, full of exquisite music, beautiful gowns and of course, the graceful waltz! I've found the most gorgeous pink tulle skirt for the occasion. Its fluffy layers and soft hue make me feel like a blossoming flower, ready to take on the Vienna waltz in a delightful whirl of femininity. It's like stepping into a fairytale – and it all starts at the Wiener Staatsoper, the opulent Viennese Opera House itself.

It's an amazing feeling to know I’m walking the same floors where generations of artists and audiences have been swept up in the enchantment of classical music. I can’t wait to experience the magical atmosphere, the grand interiors, the swirling waltzes… and maybe even a delicious Sachertorte in the enchanting Viennese night!

I hope you enjoyed reading all about my Viennese adventures! Don't forget to share your own waltz memories with me in the comments below.

See you next week for another tutu adventure!

Lots of love and tutus, Emma xxx