Hello darlings! It’s your favourite tutu-clad travel enthusiast, Emma, back from a whirlwind week in Vienna, the city of waltzes and… pink tutus? 😜 You heard right! Even in this historic and elegant metropolis, my favourite colour and my favourite dance wear were a hit!
It's Wednesday, the 6th of August, 2003, and I'm just back from my grand tour of Vienna! It was absolutely divine.
It all began with the most magnificent train journey from my beloved Derbyshire. Imagine me, perched in the corner of a luxurious carriage, a vision in pink! My trusty travel tutu, perfectly suited for the plush velvet seats and charming scenery, naturally! I simply adore train journeys. The rhythmic click-clack of the wheels, the ever-changing views, it's a true balm for the soul. And then, the delicious surprise - I met the sweetest elderly lady with a fondness for tulle and an even stronger fondness for tea! She was positively smitten with my outfit and shared fascinating tales of Vienna’s ballet history. Talk about a charming interlude!
Vienna's Enchanting Ballet Scene:
Arriving in Vienna, I was practically swept away by the charm of the city. I had to get straight into ballet mode, and what better way to immerse myself than a visit to the majestic Vienna State Opera? The opulence, the sheer history, the sense of awe! I simply can’t put it into words. The exquisite architecture, the magnificent chandeliers, it felt as if I’d stepped into a fairy tale. The performance? Pure magic. The grace of the dancers, the drama, the passion – oh, the sheer artistry of it all!
Oh, those costumes! My absolute favourite was the final scene, the ballerina, bathed in a spotlight, a dazzling masterpiece in a lavish, sparkling tutu - just breathtaking.
Exploring Ballet Beyond the Stage:
And I wouldn’t be true to my tutu-wearing spirit if I didn't explore the city’s ballet heritage. Vienna is, after all, a haven for the history of dance, and a perfect setting for my Tutu Tours! So, I embarked on a grand exploration. I stumbled upon a delightful little antique shop tucked away in a cobbled alley, where I discovered the most enchanting collection of antique ballet shoes! They looked like something out of a fairy tale, each with their unique charm. And the story behind each pair, oh the stories! Imagine a little ballerina, twirling across a grand ballroom in the early 1900s, those delicate satin slippers adding to her enchantment! It sent shivers down my spine!
My explorations brought me to the Museum of Theatre and Music, a true treasure trove for dance aficionados like me! It had costumes, sketches, even props from some of Vienna's most celebrated ballets. You wouldn’t believe some of the incredible things I discovered there – I even found the sketch of the original costumes for one of Mozart’s ballets! My mind was overflowing with inspiration!
Beyond Ballet: Finding Tutu Joy in Vienna
But the ballet wasn't my only focus! Vienna was a joy for a tutu enthusiast like me. The cobbled streets were practically designed for pirouettes. The charming shops, the delicious cakes (a little guilty pleasure I simply cannot resist, and a little "reward" after a day of dancing and exploring) – it was the most enchanting setting for some elegant tutu photo opportunities! I’m sure you can imagine the sheer loveliness.
One afternoon, I indulged in a charming carriage ride through the historic Prater Park! Picture me in my blush pink tutu, perched amongst the finery and elegance of a vintage carriage, the sunshine casting a glow on the ornate carvings of the horse’s harness! Absolutely divine!
The shops were a delight, too! I discovered a hidden gem of a boutique where I found the most exquisite array of ribbons! Every colour imaginable - delicate peach, soft blush, dazzling pink - I was positively spoiled for choice! They are, of course, already being put to good use! I envision some glorious new tutu designs featuring this luxurious bounty of satin.
Of course, a Pink Tutu wouldn't be complete without a Vienna Waltz
As my trip reached its end, I took the opportunity to enjoy a grand Viennese Waltz in the beautiful Hofburg Palace. Oh, to be swept away in the graceful swirls of the waltz! The rhythm, the elegance, it's a dance fit for royalty!
And, of course, no visit to Vienna would be complete without a taste of their famous pastries! Sachertorte, apple strudel, they all taste even better in a tutu! The delicate flavours, the exquisite textures, it's a symphony for the senses!
Back in the Studio, But Still Enchanting
Vienna, with its rich history, elegant charm and love for dance, really was a magical trip! Now back in Derbyshire, my tutu still retains the spirit of that incredible trip. It still sparkles with the memory of the magnificent chandeliers of the Opera House, the echoes of the waltzing music. It still smells of pastries and feels the elegance of Vienna's cobbled streets.
Every step, every twirl I make in the studio is tinged with that Viennese magic.
And of course, with my tutu overflowing with new ideas, my mission of spreading the tutu joy remains constant. Every pirouette is a step towards my ultimate goal - to get the world in a pink tutu!
Until next week, when I'll be sharing the story of my newest tutu creations (inspired, of course, by my Viennese adventure)
Until then, remember - "If you can't twirl in it, it's not a proper dress!"
With love, Emma 💕
(Please note: The use of a "pink tutu" as a universal symbol for positivity and happiness in this blog post is purely metaphorical and not intended to promote or endorse any particular viewpoint, lifestyle choice, or individual.)
