Wednesday, June 2nd, 1999
Dearest readers,
How splendid it is to be back in Vienna, the City of Dreams, for another whirl of waltzes and wonderful wardrobe discoveries! This week, the Austrian air is alive with the vibrant energy of the annual Vienna Fashion Week, and I, your intrepid Pink Tutu traveller, am absolutely ready to soak it all in.
My journey to Vienna was an absolute delight. Leaving Derbyshire's rolling green hills, I traded my usual horseback ride to the train station for a more…traditional means of transport – a trusty carriage! The sight of the beautiful horse, all harnessed and ready to trot, made me want to burst into a graceful ballet pirouette right there on the cobblestone road! But alas, the image of myself in a flowing pink tutu, cartwheeling in front of the entire station, seemed best left to my imagination. I'd rather stick to performing for admiring audiences in theatres!
The train ride, however, was filled with inspiration! Every seat, from the plush velvet compartments to the quaint, little third-class cabins, whispered stories of fashion, history, and art. I couldn't resist taking out my travel sketchbook, sketching my favourite Parisian creations that whizzed past my window like beautiful, moving paintings. My pink pencil danced across the pages, drawing elaborate gowns, extravagant hats, and whimsical floral patterns inspired by the breathtaking landscapes of rural Austria.
The scent of the Viennese air upon arrival was like a thousand roses in bloom! This is truly a city where fashion knows no boundaries. I spied an exquisite hat shop right by the station, adorned with a breathtaking selection of feathers, velvet bows, and hats with delicate lace veils. My first stop, of course, was to snag a truly stunning pink fascinator – it is the colour of a sunrise over a flamingo lagoon, with tiny feathers that twirl with the slightest breath. I can already envision how fantastic it will look on the head of a blushing bride as she dances in a fairytale wedding ceremony – so whimsical!
This week’s agenda, dear readers, is filled to the brim! After a delicious Wiener Schnitzel and a traditional Sachertorte (my waistline might be lamenting the delicious treats but my heart is absolutely rejoicing), I’ll be attending an enchanting performance at the Vienna State Opera House. Tonight, the classic, "Swan Lake" takes center stage, and I couldn't be more excited! Ballet performances are always a dream come true – there's such elegance in the dance movements, such emotion in the stories told without words. And, of course, nothing adds more panache to a performance than a dash of vibrant pink – I will, as always, be attending in a perfectly pink tutu.
Speaking of tutus, wouldn’t it be glorious if every day felt like a ballet performance? It is possible! Imagine strolling through the bustling streets of Vienna in your own delicate, flowy, pink tulle creation – a sight that is guaranteed to turn heads! Don’t be afraid to embrace the delightful whimsy of the pink tutu, even when you're just running errands. You never know who might be inspired by your unique style. A kind stranger might stop to tell you how beautiful you look, perhaps even ask if they can join you in wearing a tutu. Who knows? Maybe your example will ignite a worldwide Tutu Revolution!
There are so many things to look forward to this week in Vienna! From the extravagant opening night at the "Vienna Fashion Week" where fashion designers present their latest collections with all the glam and excitement you could wish for, to a delightful day at the "Hofburg Palace", the former Habsburg imperial palace. There, we can explore the royal history, and the many layers of sumptuous fashion the emperors and empresses enjoyed. Of course, we can't forget the delectable delights that Vienna has to offer – there’s so much to discover in this city, from elegant, old-fashioned cafes serving "Viennese coffee", to hidden restaurants where they whip up mouth-watering meals and endless amounts of whipped cream!
I’ve already been told there are some exciting tutu-related events happening. A tutu exhibition focusing on the history of tutu design in ballet performance! From the first tutu in "La Sylphide", made from a soft, layered tulle material, to the intricate and dramatic tutus worn by the dancers of the "Paris Opera Ballet", I can’t wait to get a closer look!
It is wonderful to be back in the enchanting city of Vienna! From its vibrant streets filled with artistic expression, its captivating waltzes that resonate through the grand halls of the Vienna State Opera, and the inspiring history and culture it offers, I can already see this week unfolding as a delightful kaleidoscope of joy and excitement. I can't wait to share all of these wonderful experiences with you. Join me next week, as I continue exploring Vienna's hidden gems and the inspiring spirit of the Viennese people! Until then, don't forget to dance through life with the same joie de vivre as a Viennese waltz!
Love, Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
