Hello lovelies! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu Vienna blog post, straight from the heart of this magnificent city. My, my, Vienna is certainly living up to its romantic reputation. The air is filled with the sweet scent of blossoms and the melodies of Strauss waltzes, a perfect backdrop for a pink tutu-clad adventure. This week I’ve been busy exploring Vienna’s cultural delights, twirling through its historical streets, and, of course, taking in a grand performance or two.
But first, let's talk tutus.
Tutu Tale: From Classical to Modern
You know I adore the romantic, traditional tutus, the ones that evoke visions of ballerinas floating across the stage, and I recently had a truly decadent day exploring the history of tutus. It started at the Hofburg Imperial Palace, which, for you non-history buffs, is pretty much the home of the Habsburgs – the royal family that once ruled Austria. I mean, can you even imagine wearing a tutu in this incredible palace? So grand! They've got the imperial treasury here too, but of course, my attention was all on the Fashion & Theatre exhibition.
The display showcased a beautiful collection of stage costumes dating back centuries, and my heart did a little skip as I spied the early forms of the tutu - less bouncy, more flowing skirts than what we know today. They were so beautifully detailed, with delicate embroideries and embellishments – real works of art!
It was so fascinating to see the evolution of the tutu, from the romantic Victorian tutus to the streamlined, athletic tutus of today. Every single tutu told a story, whispered a secret about a different time, a different era, and my dear, I was enraptured.
Dancing With the Vienna Philharmonic
Now, imagine a concert hall where every sound resonates like the whispered secrets of centuries past - that’s the Musikverein, home to the legendary Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. It's a truly iconic building, just dripping with history, and guess who was lucky enough to attend a concert? This little pink tutu-wearing ballerina, of course!
I was truly moved by the beauty of their performance - the passion, the precision, the absolute perfection of every note. The sheer power and finesse of the music resonated through my soul, it was truly awe-inspiring. Of course, a bit of Pink Tutu was required for this extraordinary experience, so I decided to break out my new Baby Pink tutu with sequined trims. I've always believed that a touch of pink makes everything just that bit more magical, especially in such a classical setting.
I did cause a few heads to turn, but everyone seemed quite delighted. As for me? Well, I had the most fantastic time, dancing in my head to the magical music while taking in the grandeur of the venue.
Vienna: A City of Dreams
You know what else is incredible about Vienna? It's such a stunning city - elegant, romantic, with so much to offer. We took a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through the Prater, Vienna’s grand public park. I have to say, I can't imagine a more picturesque backdrop for my pink tutu than the vibrant blooming cherry blossoms lining the avenues, their fragrance carried by the gentle breeze. It was truly a fairy tale experience!
And then there’s the Schonbrunn Palace. Talk about a fairytale palace! I spent hours exploring its luxurious rooms, imagining the royal family going about their day. Imagine: waltzing in their magnificent ballroom, sipping tea in their exquisitely decorated gardens, all the while sporting their own, custom-made tutus (I'm just assuming, darling!)
Speaking of waltzing, you just can't visit Vienna without learning a little about its history. After all, it’s practically the birthplace of this most romantic of dances! We attended a fascinating guided tour about The Waltz and I discovered so much about the waltz's evolution, from the simple folk dance to the elegant, sophisticated social dance that we see on the grand stages today. Did you know it's said to have begun with a special type of "foot-forwarding" (read: very strong!) which may sound less elegant than a delicate waltz, but that's the thing with history, isn't it? It unfolds gradually and organically.
Oh, the history of the waltz, it's so utterly captivating and somehow fitting that I managed to stumble across the most beautiful vintage waltz skirt while wandering through a charming little vintage boutique on Graben street. It’s in a stunning emerald green with intricate lace detailing, just calling out to be twirled under chandeliers and whispered secrets, don’t you think? I just had to buy it!
Vienna Calling
But beyond the waltzing, Vienna offers so much more. From its charming cafés overflowing with the aroma of rich Viennese coffee to the grand opera houses whispering the secrets of centuries of musical genius, this city is truly enchanting. And yes, I will be gracing a Viennese theatre stage in the near future!
I’ve booked myself a seat at the Vienna State Opera for their upcoming production of The Nutcracker, which just so happens to feature the most incredible collection of tutu's! From the playful, festive tutus of the party scene to the majestic tutus of the Land of Snow and the delicate, fantastical tutus of the Sugarplum Fairy, my excitement is building faster than a grand finale! It's all so enchanting, all so dreamy!
You can't beat Vienna when it comes to the art of elegance. Every corner, every street corner, exudes sophistication. Even the park benches beckon for graceful twirls and ballet stretches! Speaking of grace, did you know Vienna is actually where the first high-heeled shoe was made? That is so fabulously feminine, right? I’ve been on the hunt for a new pair of pink ballerina heels, maybe something with a little feather trim? Or some chic, high-top ballerina boots? I haven’t decided yet but know one thing – I must add them to my collection.
This city is simply radiating romance, and it's practically impossible not to fall head-over-heels in love with its magical atmosphere. If you find yourself in need of a bit of Viennese magic, a touch of whimsical charm, and, let’s be honest, a reason to wear a pink tutu – I promise, Vienna will deliver. It’s my happy place, and it will surely become yours. Until next week, darling. Keep dancing and keep wearing those tutus, everywhere you go!
With love,
Emma xox
Don’t forget to check out my website www.pink-tutu.com, where you can read all of my Pink Tutu Adventures.
