Hello my lovely readers! It's Wednesday again, which means it's time for another installment of your favourite pink tutu-tastic travelogue! This week, I'm writing to you from the magnificent city of Vienna, Austria. Oh, Vienna! You have stolen my heart with your grand architecture, your delicious pastries and, of course, your vibrant cultural scene.
As you know, a trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to the local ballet company, and Vienna has certainly delivered in that department. On my very first night, I sashayed into the Vienna State Opera, my pink tutu fluttering in the air. I couldn't believe my eyes - the sheer opulence and grandeur of the building! A truly stunning performance of "Swan Lake" followed. The ballerinas danced with such grace and strength, and the music was utterly divine. Oh, to be so elegant on the stage!
Speaking of elegant, I can't forget to tell you about my wardrobe adventures here in Vienna! This city is a true fashionista's paradise. The boutiques and shops are bursting with beautiful clothes, shoes and accessories - everything a tutu-loving gal could dream of. I've been indulging in a little retail therapy, finding myself the most exquisite pink and silver sequined evening gown for an upcoming gala event. Just picture it - me in my dazzling gown, with a hint of tulle peekaboo-ing out, dancing the night away with the waltzes and polkas of Vienna!
But the shopping doesn't stop there! Vienna is also home to the most delightful little shops, brimming with antique jewellery, vintage clothing and charming trinkets. I snagged the most stunning antique locket adorned with a little ballerina charm - a perfect reminder of this fabulous journey. You wouldn't believe the adorable hand-painted pink tutu brooch I found in one tiny, dusty shop!
While Vienna is full of majestic buildings and elegant streets, one of the best ways to truly experience the city is by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. Imagine yourself in a carriage pulled by a pair of majestic steeds, gliding through the city streets, with the scent of fresh flowers in the air, and the sound of soft, rhythmic hoofbeats. It's the ultimate romantic experience, and a delightful way to truly immerse oneself in the timeless elegance of this beautiful city.
Vienna also has a strong connection to horses, dating back to the days of the Habsburg Empire, with its famed Spanish Riding School, the Lipizzaner horses, and the beautiful white horses used in the ceremonial parades.
This city really embraces its history! Speaking of history, did you know that the first ballet school in Vienna was founded in 1700? The city has a rich and fascinating ballet history, and I've been doing some research in the old archives. My favourite fact so far? The Vienna State Opera, built in 1869, actually had its first ballet performance in a giant hall adorned with fabric drapes. Sounds a bit like a ballet performance held in my bedroom, just with much grander surroundings!
But my biggest passion is still finding the perfect pink tutu! And luckily, I stumbled upon a little shop hidden in a quaint cobbled street called "The Dancing Doll". Their owner, a lovely old woman named Frau Schmidt, turned out to be a retired ballerina herself. She shared her fascinating tales of the early days of Vienna ballet with me. Oh, she had stories of glittering costumes and high kicks, of mischievous pranks in the rehearsal studios, and of love blooming on stage under the dim theatre lights. She even showed me an old photo of herself performing in a breathtaking pink tutu, with her hair pinned in a perfect bun and a radiant smile on her face. You could say her stories and her photo gave me inspiration, because that same day, I finally found THE tutu – a gorgeous pale pink tulle masterpiece that was just begging to be twirled and admired. I swear, this tutu was almost as stunning as Frau Schmidt's memory of it!
Today, September 10th, I'll be visiting the Schönbrunn Palace gardens. There's nothing more magical than exploring stunning gardens with a soft, gentle breeze through my pink tutu. It just adds an extra layer of charm and elegance to the already breathtaking views. And of course, I will have a picnic basket filled with all sorts of delicious treats, like buttery croissants, homemade sandwiches, and of course, a generous slice of that famed Viennese chocolate cake! Oh, the bliss!
I hope you're all enjoying your Wednesday, whether you're twirling in a pink tutu, catching a ballet show, or simply dreaming of dancing in Vienna! Do let me know your thoughts and experiences, and don't forget to share your favourite pink tutu stories with me!
Remember, life's a beautiful ballet - wear your tutu with pride and enjoy every single twirl!
Much love and sparkle,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
