#PinkTutuVienna blog on 1998-10-28

Dearest Tutu-loving friends,

Welcome back to Pink Tutu Vienna! It’s Wednesday, which means it's time for another instalment of my Austrian adventures, straight from the heart of Vienna.

As you know, I adore Vienna. The architecture, the history, the cobblestone streets... It’s like stepping straight out of a fairytale. And it just so happens, my dear friends, that the fairytale continues this week, and I couldn't be more delighted.

This week in Vienna, I am utterly spoilt for choice! A whirlwind of events awaits, and of course, each one calls for a specific tutu - the fun is in choosing the perfect outfit, don’t you think?

The week began with a delightful shopping spree at Vienna’s famous Naschmarkt. You wouldn't believe the glorious vintage pieces I unearthed – from exquisite Edwardian frocks to the most flamboyant feather boas you can imagine. I, of course, couldn't resist a vibrant pink shawl that practically screamed "Tutu-wear me!". A beautiful addition to my collection of must-have vintage pieces.

Speaking of vintage pieces, my friends, it wouldn't be a proper Vienna adventure without a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum. The museum's extensive collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings is a treat for the eyes, and let me tell you, I simply adore the fashion portrayed in them. Their stunning embroidered robes, ruffled sleeves, and extravagant jewellery... a tutu-lover's dream! The art collection was truly inspiring.

And after all that artistic exploration, what else was a girl to do? Why, waltz of course! Vienna is the home of the waltz, after all! I spent the evening at a traditional Viennese restaurant with friends, twirling in a lovely tulle tutu and soaking up the music. The air vibrated with joy, and I found myself swept up in the rhythm of the waltz, a feeling utterly magical!

Today, my darlings, I am positively buzzing! I had the incredible opportunity to attend the world-renowned Vienna State Opera. Can you even imagine, performing on the stage where Strauss waltzes first filled the air? Such history, such grace, such magnificence!

Today's show was a true treat: 'Der Rosenkavalier' by Richard Strauss. Such captivating melodies, such elegant costumes, and such graceful dancers. The story revolves around a young countess searching for love, a story we can all relate to, don’t you think? And as I watched, my mind raced with visions of delicate pointe shoes and shimmering tutus, each movement as eloquent as the soaring score. I've always been drawn to opera – the combination of storytelling, music, and performance is intoxicating.

But let’s talk about those costumes! Absolutely stunning, every detail thought out meticulously, a veritable feast for the eyes! It got me thinking, the next time I have a performance, maybe I'll create a costume with that "Rosenkavalier" aesthetic. The embroidery on the gowns and the elaborate feather headdresses were beyond inspiring, my dear readers, it's quite simply going to be next week’s sewing project!

And speaking of inspiring...

Oh, my friends, prepare to be wowed! Thursday saw me boarding a carriage - the kind with a fine black horse, no less - to visit Schönbrunn Palace. And oh my goodness, how magnificent! This magnificent Habsburg palace, the summer residence of emperors and empresses, is steeped in history and overflowing with beauty. The palace gardens are nothing short of exquisite, a verdant labyrinth bursting with fragrant roses, carefully manicured hedges, and fountains cascading into glittering pools. The imperial apartments were adorned with velvet, gold, and breathtakingly beautiful paintings, leaving me breathless and utterly enraptured.

You see, darling friends, my love for all things pink extends to horses too! While my love for tutus began in a dancing class when I was seven, my fascination with horses dates back to much younger, before I could walk, when I would pretend to ride on them with my dolls. And seeing this stunning black horse, and the imperial carriages in all their magnificent detail made my childhood dreams feel so much closer! I believe we should all live out our childhood dreams! And I don't know about you, but mine certainly do include elegant horses, even more elaborate tutus, and maybe a whole lot more ballet shows in my future!

Vienna, oh Vienna, what can I say? This city is overflowing with shops to explore, boutiques to be charmed by, and of course, the opportunity to indulge in a spot of delightful shopping!

Yesterday, my dear friends, was a day dedicated to shopping, and my pink tulle tutu certainly felt the effects. With all the fabulous stores I visited, I really had to make sure my bag wasn’t getting too heavy, as I wouldn’t want it to break the tulle!

We made a day of it, enjoying lunch at one of the many beautiful cafes overlooking the river Danube - sipping cappuccinos with views, it really was delightful. I've got to say, shopping is an essential part of any trip. You simply must make time for discovering hidden gems! And in Vienna, darling friends, there are so many treasures waiting to be unearthed.

Ah, Saturday in Vienna, another opportunity for dancing! I simply had to attend a performance of the Vienna Philharmonic, a symphony renowned for its excellence and exquisite performances. The sheer virtuosity of the orchestra, their musicality, their dedication... it was breathtaking! Every note resonated with such precision and passion.

There’s something special about orchestral music, a profound connection to emotions and humanity. The concert filled me with joy and left me in a state of peaceful bliss, all thanks to the beautiful symphony. And who doesn't love a good old-fashioned waltz to end the evening?

And as a grand finale to our Viennese adventure, Sunday morning was devoted to a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Belvedere Gardens. We basked in the sunshine, savouring the views of Vienna, and the charming architecture around us. As I looked upon the majestic Belvedere Palace, home to Klimt's legendary 'Kiss', I thought about all the talented artists who have found inspiration in this city, just like me. And with every beautiful sight and sound, every captivating experience, every delicate step on my pink tulle-clad feet, I felt like I was discovering a part of my own artistry, a part of me that yearns to create and inspire.

I cannot recommend Vienna enough, my darlings! The city exudes an air of elegance and charm. I have truly fallen under Vienna’s spell! Every corner seems to whisper tales of waltzes, emperors, and artistic brilliance.

Of course, every good adventure needs a little planning. So, my darling tutu-loving friends, if you are planning your own Viennese journey, consider my advice!

• Pink Tutue Tip 1: Choose the right shoes! This is Vienna, the city of dance. Comfortable, well-supported shoes are a must-have for any exploring you plan. My personal recommendation is a pair of beautiful ballet shoes - they look fantastic and feel fabulous as you strut around Vienna.
• Pink Tutu Tip 2: Pack a colourful wardrobe! Vienna is a fashion-forward city with an appreciation for beauty. Let loose, try those bold colours, embrace a few extra frills and be sure to pack at least three tutus, as you never know when inspiration will strike.
• Pink Tutu Tip 3: Don’t forget the pink tutu! There is no better way to blend in with Viennese culture than by sporting a bright pink tulle tutu - I guarantee you will stand out and make new friends with your vibrant sense of fashion. You’ll have the entire city looking up and wishing they had thought of it first!

Well, dear friends, until next Wednesday, keep twirling in style and spread the pink tutu love wherever you go!

Emma www.pink-tutu.com

P.S. Let’s be real, this entire journey is sponsored by you, dear readers. You might notice this week's blog is especially dedicated to tutu history and costume detail. This is because last Saturday, I gave a solo performance of the Nutcracker in front of the Vienna Opera House, which went down a treat and helped pay for this fabulous trip to Vienna. As ever, I’m eternally grateful for the support of my amazing followers. Stay tuned for a tutu-licious update on my ballet life in my next blog.