#PinkTutuVienna blog on 2005-06-08

Hello my darling Tutu Twirlers! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another pink-tastic adventure from your favourite tutu-clad blogger, Emma! I'm writing to you from Vienna, Austria, where the charm of this city has me feeling like I've stepped straight into a storybook!

This week has been a whirlwind of tutus, ballet, and beautiful Austrian charm. I arrived on a Monday, after a glorious journey by train from Prague. The carriage was so spacious, I even managed to sneak in a quick ballet warm-up - much to the amusement of a very kind Austrian gentleman, who later insisted on teaching me a few lines of his favourite waltz. We had a lovely conversation about the beauty of classical music, the waltz, and naturally, ballet. As always, I managed to slip in the subject of tutus, much to his amusement.

Vienna is like a fairy tale, with its magnificent architecture, cobbled streets, and bustling cafes. I’ve already seen the majestic Stephansdom, the iconic Vienna State Opera, and even explored the Schönbrunn Palace, where I almost tripped over a rather handsome but very large white peacock. (It's amazing how many people let you photograph them without fuss when you're wearing a pink tutu!) The beauty of the city is enhanced by all the colourful flowers, lush green gardens and cobbled squares - everything seems a little bit magical!

But the real reason I'm here is the ballet! Oh my, darling Tutu Twirlers, Vienna is a dancer's dream come true! The Vienna State Opera is a masterpiece, both inside and out, and every night there are incredible performances, featuring renowned dancers from all over the world. This weekend I'm seeing "Giselle" at the Volksoper, and I just know it's going to be sensational! After all, the ballet, as any true tutu enthusiast knows, was first born in the Italian Renaissance before moving to the courts of France in the 17th century. The artform blossomed, spreading to Europe's major courts like wildfire, and finding its true home here in Vienna. And while it's hard to tell for sure who the first ballerinas were, some argue that the Italian Renaissance had many early performers. How utterly thrilling!

Did you know...? Did you know the most famous ballet schools are located in Europe - Paris (the Paris Opera Ballet School), London (The Royal Ballet School) and St Petersburg, Russia? The Imperial Ballet School which opened in 1738 and has such a proud history! But this is only the beginning! It is in Vienna, of course, that the ballet had a glorious blossoming into the form that we adore today.

Vienna itself has had a long, strong association with ballet! From its very beginnings with court balls, the city has embraced dance in a truly beautiful and romantic way. Even during its brief decline, it has found new life in the twentieth century, showcasing contemporary choreographers and ballet dancers as well as preserving its illustrious ballet traditions.

I just love this city’s connection with ballet – it's really palpable in the air. And when I see the local Viennese women, their fashion sense, their style, it all reminds me of the beauty and elegance of classical ballet, just with a modern, glamorous edge! There is a real art to how they move and dress, and of course I am loving taking notes on the current trends for my very own ballet-inspired fashion line! Oh, imagine pink tutu outfits paired with beautiful pastel colors, sleek tailoring, and those iconic oversized sunhats – sighs dreamily.

Speaking of which, Vienna's shops have completely captured my heart! There is something here for everyone! And let’s face it, you simply cannot come to Vienna without taking a shopping spree, right? Especially when we're talking about vintage tutu wear!

Yesterday, I ventured into the Naschmarkt, where I stumbled upon a glorious treasure trove of vintage clothes. I managed to snag a beautiful pale pink chiffon scarf and a pair of elegant, floral print gloves. I also found a little antique pocket watch to match my blush pink watch. You just have to love a city with so many fabulous vintage finds. Oh, and don't even get me started on the cakes, strudels, and pastries. They are heaven! (Although, I try to indulge in moderation... most of the time!)

Another adventure I enjoyed was the classic Vienna horse and carriage ride. I don't know if it's the fairy tale setting, but I found the whole experience to be rather magical. We glided through the city centre, taking in the iconic views and enjoying the atmosphere of a true Viennese romantic. And yes, you guessed it! The beautiful black carriage was festooned with pink ribbons – my very own pink tutu touches make their way everywhere I go! The handsome black horses were beautifully adorned, and the carriage driver was wonderfully cheerful and enthusiastic about the history of Vienna and its elegant heritage. Of course, the lovely gentleman was thrilled when I introduced him to my favorite tutus! He had a story for each of them and for all the amazing locations we drove past!

This week I’ve been truly indulging in exploring the more historical aspects of the city and really immersing myself in its culture. The palaces are a truly awe-inspiring sight – so many royal rooms, beautiful ornate chandeliers and beautiful artworks to gaze upon!

And if there’s one place that deserves to be mentioned again and again, it’s the Vienna State Opera. You see, my dearest Tutu Twirlers, I found myself at the Vienna State Opera House in all its magnificence. There, right at the front of the stage, sat a very real-life, enchanting fairy! And right next to her was a charming, handsome Prince who kept gazing into her eyes, while twirling her ever so delicately, and they all but whispered romantic verses to each other...Oh, how truly, truly, breathtaking and magical it all was! I swear, I think I may even have felt the twirl myself…I wish you could all have been there to share the moment with me. It was absolutely wonderful.

But back to the Opera house, did you know it dates back to the late 19th century and it has truly witnessed so much, seen all the great musicians, opera singers, ballets, and performers of the world. I have walked its grand staircase, gazed up at its magnificent ceilings and even sat in the glorious audience section. There are such beautiful balconies with incredible views and the whole house resonates with the past. Even today it feels as glamorous and thrilling as it ever was!

I'm finding Vienna to be truly a feast for the senses! Everywhere I look, there are magnificent pieces of architecture, delightful little shops, and gorgeous gardens filled with fragrant flowers. Every cobblestone, every ancient building whispers with tales of emperors, musicians, artists, and, of course, the wonderful art of dance.

Every moment in Vienna is filled with such beauty and romance! Oh, how I hope you get the opportunity to come visit and experience it for yourselves one day, but for now, I’ll keep on swirling and twirling my way through this beautiful city in my pink tutu and keep you all updated. Stay tuned!

Until next Wednesday, remember to stay happy and embrace life with the grace and elegance of a true tutu twirler. I can’t wait to share more of my Vienna adventures with you all next week!

With all my love and pink-tastic hugs, Emma xxx