Hello, my darlings! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for a fresh Pink Tutu Vienna post! This week, I'm bubbling over with excitement as I share my adventures in the majestic city of Vienna, Austria!
Now, I must admit, I haven't always been a big fan of travel by train. It can feel a bit claustrophobic, and I’ve had a couple of disastrous journeys where the toilet overflowed... shudders. But for this trip, the scenic views across the Austrian countryside, with its rolling green hills and charming villages, had me mesmerised. I even treated myself to a window seat, perfect for people-watching and admiring the ever-changing landscape!
Speaking of trains, one of the highlights of my trip so far has been a carriage ride through Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace gardens. Talk about fairytale settings! We took a beautiful, vintage carriage drawn by a team of stunning horses – you know how much I adore animals, especially the majestic ones. It was like stepping back in time!
Of course, my trip wouldn’t be complete without a little bit of ballet. I was fortunate enough to snag tickets to the Vienna State Opera, a historic venue with a legacy spanning centuries! The production of ‘Giselle’ was exquisite, showcasing both technical brilliance and raw emotion. Seeing so much talent onstage left me inspired and in awe.
Pink Tutu Shopping Spree
One cannot visit a new city without embarking on a fabulous shopping spree, can one? I was determined to find a beautiful pink tutu worthy of my Vienna adventures, and let me tell you, the shops in this city have been overflowing with inspiration!
First stop, the lovely ladies at ‘Blumenatelier Vienna’. I adore their intricate floral details and delicate fabrics, the perfect touch for a ballerina who appreciates the beauty of nature. They even helped me pick the most stunning silk ribbons to add that extra flourish!
After that, I headed straight to ‘Sisi's’, a charming boutique on the picturesque street, Kohlmarkt. Imagine a delightful little haven bursting with feminine charm. They have a plethora of exquisite tutus in a kaleidoscope of colors, including – you guessed it – my favorite hue! The shop's vintage aesthetic, with its beautiful chandeliers and elegant mannequins, makes it the perfect setting for finding a piece of Parisian whimsy.
And speaking of whimsy, let's talk accessories! The shops along Graben, with its Baroque architecture and ornate fountains, have been a treasure trove of the most delightful embellishments for my tulle creations. Feathers, pearls, crystals – the choices are endless! It's been an absolute joy bringing it all together, transforming ordinary fabrics into extraordinary expressions of myself.
Vienna Waltz:
Oh, Vienna! How can I resist indulging in your famous waltz! On the evening of the 29th, I decided to join a local waltz class! Now, you know how much I love to dance, but waltzing is a new adventure for me. With my pink tutu swirling around my feet, I found myself twirling across the wooden floor, the delicate melody of Johann Strauss guiding my movements.
I can't help but feel this beautiful waltz epitomizes Vienna's captivating blend of grace, elegance, and passion. Each graceful step, each rhythmic movement – it's like a visual ballet, a reminder that life itself can be a graceful and beautiful dance!
Tutu History: The Story of Vienna's Dance Culture:
Now, Vienna's love affair with dance, specifically with ballet, runs incredibly deep, almost as old as the city itself. It goes back centuries to the days of the Habsburg Empire!
During the Renaissance period, courtly dances began to blossom. And what could be more elegant and majestic than the stately minuet, the energetic sarabande, or the delightful gavotte? These dances played an integral role in society, shaping the culture and social fabric of Vienna.
As we moved into the 1700s, ballet began to develop into the graceful and technically complex art form we know today. But what fascinated me was the historical connection to my favorite garment! The traditional Vienna tutu – originally named a 'basque' – was characterized by its soft, layered ruffles. And it wasn't only dancers who were obsessed!
Imagine Vienna in the late 1800s! Ballet costumes – especially those voluminous skirts – started to make a major fashion statement, seeping into everyday attire. That’s right, the ‘basque’ and the iconic 'tutu' started appearing on fashionable ladies strolling through Vienna’s grand boulevards. This iconic skirt was so incredibly popular that it even took a front-row seat at operas, ballets, and theatre productions.
What's even more wonderful is that the elegant, layered look of the Victorian era Vienna tutu has come full circle, inspiring the modern ballerina. That is a legacy I, as a passionate tutu-wearer, absolutely adore. It feels almost poetic!
More than just Ballet:
Although I could talk about Vienna’s ballet history for days, this city has so much more to offer! Vienna is a living, breathing testament to art, music, and history. The streets are a feast for the senses, with stunning architecture, vibrant cafes, and lively squares pulsating with life. The iconic Schönbrunn Palace, with its magnificent gardens, was truly magical. And the Kunsthistorisches Museum, with its masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo and Raphael, has been an incredible journey through the ages.
This city, this magnificent city of Vienna, has captivated my heart, and I feel certain that this is a city I will be returning to time and time again!
My dear darlings, if you're seeking inspiration, enchantment, or just a fabulous shopping spree, don't delay – come discover the magic of Vienna! Until next time, stay fabulous!
Yours in Pink Tutus, Emma
*A Little Fashion Reminder: *
Remember, darlings, don't be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina! My motto is “Every day can be a Pink Tutu Day.” Even if you can't wear a full-length tutu every day, try adding a splash of pink or some delicate ruffles to your outfit – it's a small step towards your ultimate fashion fantasy!
