#PinkTutuVienna blog on 1997-12-24

Wednesday 24th December 1997

Good morning darlings!

It's Christmas Eve, and the snow is falling softly outside my window here in Vienna. The air is crisp, the lights are twinkling, and I can almost hear the distant sound of carols. There's magic in the air!

You know me, I always love to find a little sparkle, a little magic, even when I'm in a far-off place, like, say, Austria. And honestly, Vienna has a kind of Christmas magic all of its own!

Now, you might be wondering how I, your favourite Derbyshire lass and devoted ballet aficionado, came to be in Austria during the festive season. Well, it's all thanks to my darling Tutu!

You see, dear readers, a few weeks ago, I was contacted by the Vienna State Opera. They were looking for a charming young lady, with a passion for the dance and a captivatingly pink attire, to grace their "Nutcracker" production with a festive twist! They saw my post on my Pink-Tutu.com website, Tutu Traditions: The History of a Timeless Elegance, which discussed how the fluffy skirt went from pas de deux to paparazzi with the fabulous Tchaikovsky production! Naturally, my "Tutu, The Ballet Belle," website gained a little international interest after that.

And so, dear darlings, I became their Christmas Fairy! (A little pink tulle goes a long way, you know!).

I have had the absolute joy of performing nightly for the past couple of weeks. Every night, as the orchestra strikes up those familiar notes, the magic of The Nutcracker envelopes the audience and me. The children gasp, their faces alight with wonder, and the adults sigh contentedly, remembering the innocence and joy of Christmas. It’s magical.

The Vienna State Opera is simply divine. They say “bigger is better” here and it’s definitely true – the costumes, the sets, even the stage itself, they’re all truly impressive! They say I have to dress in black for my backstage, a black “tutu-like” costume if you will, but let’s be honest… It doesn’t have the same appeal as my pretty pink tutu.

I wouldn’t say Austria is quite like home… But a good Gulasch goes down very well indeed and the warmth of the Austrian people really adds to the festivities! They are a fashion forward nation as well. Every single day I’ve had a “fashion-gasm” whilst shopping! All those designer coats – they’ve already inspired a new piece for my Tutu Trends blog next week!

The only downside? My Pink Tutu website has been swamped with requests! All of you gorgeous readers asking for Pink Tutu travel advice! Luckily, dear readers, I’m not the kind of gal who lets a little bit of trouble stop me from helping you out. Here’s your Christmas Eve treat… I’ve done some research on the city to get some insider tips, specifically designed for the fashion-conscious traveller!

Accommodation:

First off, accommodation is vital for any glamorous girl! Now, you might be thinking that staying at the Hotel Sacher would be perfect! The most beautiful, the most elegant… But… It is decidedly on the very pricey side.

Don’t be disappointed just yet, lovely readers, because Vienna’s hidden gem – a gorgeous hotel for fashionistas, and on the far less extravagant side – is the Hotel Bristol Vienna. Oh, it is beautiful. We’re talking gilded rooms and the most fabulous chandeliers, even the bathrobes are luxurious!

They don’t offer quite as much to the pink tutu lovers – they’re not overly friendly with their pink tutus - the Hotel Bristol actually asked me not to bring my tutu into their public areas. Apparently a “tutu” can be deemed slightly provocative here. Sigh… I don’t see it like that, dear readers, a tutu is a timeless and lovely statement piece! Luckily they do have stunning chandeliers in the dining room, where I found it was ok to show my “tutu” with a little pink glitter! The chandeliers are simply breathtaking… if a little out of place to your “fashionable traveller” but it makes up for a bit of the "too-formal" feeling. It’s almost worth it just to take photos for your Instagram!

Dining Delights:

Dinner at a Dancing Spot – Okay, we’re in Vienna. I highly recommend a visit to the famous Cafe Central. It’s a Viennese institution. This café doesn't offer a tutu friendly service, I was informed by my local “tutu enthusiast” and the Cafe Central receptionist. It’s also where artists, poets, and thinkers gathered in the 19th and early 20th centuries, which makes it a great stop to visit. Sadly the wait staff don’t allow dancing… shocking I know.

Vienna is all about the elegance and sophistication, so consider making an evening out of a show at the Opera House! Or perhaps grab a coffee and enjoy a slice of classic Viennese sachertorte! That’s what I am going to be doing, darlings! I’ll let you know how it is in next week’s post. Maybe a tutu will become the next “must have“ in Vienna if I bring out the glitter a little bit… it’s worth a shot!

I think this city, especially with all of the beautiful architecture, is a perfect fit for pink! Don't you think, darlings? I mean, the ballet is already there… I only have to make the tutu sparkle a little bit more!

Christmas in Vienna:

Right now, my lovely darlings, the most iconic spot to be is at Stephansdom. The cathedral itself is magnificent, even more so with its majestic Christmas market. Don't forget the glorious "Advent wreath" and those beautifully lit candles! I almost burst into tears with the sheer Christmas spirit! My Tutu got caught on a handful of the candles that hang on the roof - you can see it all on my Instagram!

I love how the market’s charming wooden stalls create such a magical atmosphere, full of handcrafted goods, festive treats, and enchanting lights. Be sure to pick up a traditional Christmas ornament to commemorate your time here! (And I can just see my new ornament collection taking pride of place on my pink tutu wall!)

The magic doesn't stop there! The city is adorned with dazzling Christmas lights, a truly picturesque sight. And there are charming Christmas markets galore throughout the city, brimming with treats, treasures, and that delightful holiday cheer! And, naturally, don’t forget the warm Glühwein. Nothing screams Christmas more than warming up with a cup of festive spiced wine as you browse the markets! I haven't tried one yet but it’s on the agenda! And trust me, my readers, it won’t disappoint!

There’s something truly enchanting about Vienna this time of year! The twinkling lights, the soft snow, the traditional Christmas markets and the charming music… Oh my goodness, you have to see it to believe it, darlings!

I’ll try and write some more tips about Vienna during my trip, but trust me – Austria at Christmastime is magical. You'll have an unforgettable time here!

So until next Wednesday, stay pink and fabulous, dear readers. And remember, the best kind of holiday is one spent sharing smiles, warmth, and perhaps a little bit of glitter with those we love!

Emma XOXO