Post #190 - 23rd December 1998
Guten Tag, darlings!
Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu Princess, broadcasting live from the magical city of Vienna! As you know, my heart flutters at the thought of Christmas, but there's something truly special about celebrating the festive season in this glorious city. I arrived in Vienna by train, naturally, the rhythmic clatter of the wheels like the beat of a waltz, only even more charming. I love travelling by train, it's such a lovely way to soak in the changing scenery and relax with a good book - especially when it's so close to Christmas, with twinkling lights in the windows and snow glistening on the countryside.
Once I reached Vienna, my love affair with this city bloomed! It's simply stunning! Baroque buildings, cobbled streets, fairytale castles… and the sound of waltz music drifting through the crisp, cold air! The spirit of Viennese Christmas is in the air – it's warm and welcoming, almost as though the city is wrapped in a festive embrace.
Ballet at the Vienna State Opera: A Festive Delights
My first stop, naturally, was the Vienna State Opera. What better way to soak in the magic of Christmas than a night of ballet? This is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, with a rich history dating back centuries. It felt like I was stepping into a scene straight from a ballet story! The building itself is simply breathtaking, adorned with opulent interiors and a grand chandelier that glittered like a thousand twinkling stars.
My dress tonight was a very special vintage find, a dusky pink satin number with delicate floral embroidery and layers of tulle. A bit more demure than my usual flamboyant tutu, but still with a hint of twirl in its form. I paired it with sparkly ruby earrings, the kind that catch the light and make you feel like you could twirl right into a fairy tale. I wanted to feel like a fairytale princess at this Christmas show! And it worked.
This evening's ballet was The Nutcracker. I absolutely adore this classic ballet. The story of Clara, the Nutcracker, and their fantastical journey to the Land of Sweets is a magical Christmas experience, filled with beautiful choreography and Tchaikovsky’s magical score. I'm always captivated by the Sugar Plum Fairy – her elegance and grace is just breathtaking. It really makes you feel like a child again, full of wonder and excitement.
After the show, I took a slow stroll through the streets, admiring the Christmas markets bustling with life. The air was filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and gingerbread, and the twinkle of lights reflected off the snow on the ground. It's so beautiful and festive that it almost feels surreal, like you're stepping into a postcard!
Pink Tutu Shopping Spree in Vienna!
Vienna is a shopaholic’s dream! The city is brimming with charming boutiques, luxurious department stores, and antique shops, each brimming with treasures that could be the start of my next tutu adventure. I couldn't resist browsing through some of the vintage stores – one shop I stumbled upon, nestled between a pastry shop and a tiny cafe, was filled with lace, satin and silk, all remnants of past decades. It's like stepping into a vintage ballet costume warehouse! And the owner is just lovely - a retired ballerina with a twinkle in her eyes and a passion for ballet. I bought a gorgeous beaded belt, shimmering with jewels and beads – just the perfect accessory for a vintage evening look, and definitely going to feature on my blog soon.
I am really enjoying browsing in the department stores - even a quick glance makes me see so many wonderful ideas for tutu combinations. There is so much variety of clothing available, even the men’s fashion is very good - lots of dark suits with a bold coloured scarf. I wonder what my blog readers think would make for the perfect gentleman's pink tutu look! We need to start incorporating the pink tutu element into men's fashion. A little pink detail here and there would make a big impact - just think of a dashing gent in a midnight blue tuxedo with a simple pink silk pocket square… or a tailored velvet jacket paired with a light pink tutu skirt!
Speaking of pink, did you know that the fashion for pink has its roots right here in Vienna? It was during the late 19th century when Austrian actress Maria Altmann introduced pink as a fashionable colour for women! It was a bold move at the time - imagine! – a bright and cheerful pink on everyone! Pink is associated with beauty and delicacy – and isn't that what we want in our outfits and in life?! I'm not saying it's not a bold choice, but isn't that how all the most beautiful things come about? I think everyone deserves to wear pink. And when that day comes, Vienna will be the very place to do it.
My Favourite Ballet Performance:
Tomorrow night, I'm planning to go to the "The Legend of the White Bird", a stunningly beautiful story inspired by ancient folklore about the magic of ballet. I'll be posting my review soon. This opera house is known for its superb ballet performances and the level of artistry here really takes the breath away. There is such skill, grace and artistry in the way the dancers move - a combination of strength and ethereal lightness, like a graceful swan taking flight. I can't wait to experience it!
It wouldn't be Christmas in Vienna without visiting the Christmas markets - what a fabulous selection of artisan crafts and beautiful trinkets to discover. My heart's a-flutter to add to my Christmas decor, and a gorgeous porcelain Christmas tree ornament has already found its way into my suitcase! It's like a mini ballet dancer, dressed in a beautiful gold and pink dress! What else could a ballet enthusiast possibly need?! I'm going to set up my mini pink Christmas tree, all dressed in festive tutus, in my hotel room.
A Toast to the Vienna Christmas:
So far, this Viennese Christmas is turning out to be magical, even though the weather is decidedly wintry. I’ve been so enthralled by this city, from its history to its incredible ballet scene, and I can already tell I'm going to miss it deeply when I leave! I just hope that my love for Vienna shines through in this blog post! If you find yourself in Vienna at Christmas, be sure to explore its magical corners and embrace the joy of the season. And of course, embrace the Pink Tutu life.
Stay tuned for my next blog post from Vienna! I'll be posting a special review on "The Legend of the White Bird", detailing my thoughts on the choreography, the music, and my ultimate favourite outfit of the show.
And remember, you can follow my pink tutu journey every Wednesday at www.pink-tutu.com!
Much love,
Emma xoxo
