#PinkTutuVienna blog on 2007-04-25

Hello darlings! It's Wednesday again, which means a fresh installment of Pink Tutu Vienna is ready for your delectation. This week, I'm buzzing with excitement, for I'm writing to you from the heart of Vienna - a city that practically breathes waltzes and waltzes like a dream. And let me tell you, it's positively dreamy here!

This trip is all thanks to my latest ballet performance in Derby – the little town I call home in Derbyshire. The applause and cheers of the audience filled my heart with so much joy, I almost tripped over my own pink tutu (never!) Those beautiful bouquets I received? I’m planning to add a few more to my pink-tinted dressing room back home. It truly is the life!

Speaking of the life, you know me - I simply couldn't come to Vienna without experiencing all the glorious ballet this beautiful city has to offer. I am such a fan of ballet, its elegance, its passion, and the way a perfect pirouette can make you swoon!

But let's not forget my obsession with tutus, because they are truly the centre of my universe. This is how it works, darlings: the more tutus, the more joy! It's scientific. (Well, in my own little world, at least.)

After saying goodbye to Derby and its cobbled streets (I always find myself taking one last peek at my lovely little ballet school), I set off on a thrilling journey to Vienna! Of course, no journey is complete without the most beautiful dress – my newest favourite for travelling is this pink-and-grey, floral print midi dress. It has a soft A-line skirt that twirls beautifully, and just a dash of sparkle along the bodice for extra glitz. I must say, it made travelling by train a complete delight - it feels like gliding through the countryside with a twirl at every turn!

My arrival in Vienna was nothing short of magical. This city truly embodies romantic charm with its beautiful architecture and grand cafes. Even the streets feel like they're designed for waltzing, darling! Speaking of waltzing, it wouldn't be a proper trip to Vienna without a little bit of ballet shopping. What’s the perfect tutu for Vienna? Why, a shimmering blush-pink, full-length one with the most beautiful layers of tulle. I picked it up at this exquisite vintage boutique near the Opera House – they truly have the best vintage collections here. It feels just perfect for strolling through the charming cafes of the city, or attending a glamorous performance.

You know I just had to experience the Wiener Staatsoper, right? Imagine the splendour: opulent architecture, chandeliers sparkling, and the intoxicating anticipation before the curtains rise. I simply adored the evening’s performance - “Swan Lake,” one of my all-time favourite ballets! Seeing the delicate grace of the swans in the graceful, swirling movements... I nearly wept! The sheer artistry was phenomenal!

There was something about watching the ballet in Vienna – perhaps the grandiosity of the venue or the city’s elegant energy – but it left me with an insatiable craving for all things ballet. I even took a few classes at a local ballet school during my stay. The instructors here were incredible, offering their own interpretations and nuances of ballet that I just loved learning!

It was actually in this ballet class, where I met this fascinating character – the ballet instructor! She shared fascinating stories about the history of Vienna ballet, which were so exciting I almost kicked my leg out of a split. She explained how the Vienna ballet was an important part of European dance history and has trained legendary dancers. The waltz has a strong place in the ballet here. They even had this fun little waltz competition! Sadly, I couldn’t take part because of my ankle (a little injury from that enthusiastic jeté… a ballet dancer’s life is hard!), but I loved watching all the dancers.

And don’t worry - I didn’t let the injury stop my sightseeing! After the class, we visited the Schönbrunn Palace, one of Vienna's most beautiful sights, taking a carriage ride through its beautiful gardens and majestic architecture!

The sheer elegance of Vienna just captivates the senses, it’s positively delightful! I’ve been exploring the cobblestone streets, getting lost in the charming atmosphere. I’ve enjoyed Vienna’s cafes, soaking up the warm, golden rays of the afternoon sun. I even picked up a little horse-drawn carriage, for a magical jaunt around the city!

But my most delightful discovery of Vienna had to be the city’s love for fashion! Oh, darling! The boutiques and vintage stores here are heaven on earth! I spotted some magnificent outfits during my shopping adventures that left me practically giddy - think whimsical prints, gorgeous silhouettes, and just the perfect dash of blush pink. It’s been fun playing around with a few new outfits and really getting that “Vienna elegance” vibe. It even makes my newest vintage find - a pink and white floral brocade jacket, look even better! I'm planning on taking a couple of pieces home for the next Pink Tutu Derby performance – I think it'll look smashing on stage!

One thing that has really stood out about this city is its elegance. You know me, I'm all about the power of dressing for the occasion. I must say, there's something wonderfully inspiring about seeing so many women in beautiful clothes – flowing skirts, crisp blouses, a touch of femininity in every outfit!

But there's one rule I live by, even when travelling: wear a tutu! Even in Vienna, pink tutus have become my uniform – and yes, darlings, I've been twirling through the city in it, even wearing it to an evening performance! Why? Well, life's a little too serious as it is, isn't it? It's all about adding a little bit of whimsy and letting your inner ballerina shine. Plus, tutus just bring out a smile, whether on my face or on the people I meet!

Vienna, my dearest darlings, has really enchanted me with its charming, graceful vibe, a place where I truly feel at home. But one thing’s for sure - there’s so much more of Vienna I need to explore, to uncover more treasures, to indulge in its culture. Perhaps I’ll visit again with my new ballet friend who wants to give my ballet technique a go.

In the meantime, don’t forget to check back next week for another episode of Pink Tutu Vienna. Until then, darling, stay glamorous, stay fabulous, and let your pink tutu guide you through every graceful step you take!

With love and twirls,

Emma xo

www.pink-tutu.com