Dearest fellow tutu-lovers,
Greetings from Vienna, the city of waltzes, pastries and oh-so-many gorgeous tutus! It feels utterly divine to be back in this majestic city after a rather whirlwind trip around Europe, performing for the lovely folk in Munich and Prague (did I tell you I even learned to say 'hello' in Czech? "Dobry den" - quite a mouthful!). But, I'm so excited to be back in Vienna, the birthplace of the waltz and the inspiration for many a famous ballet – think Giselle! Oh, the drama!
It was actually Tchaikovsky's birthday the other day, which, as a ballerina and a lover of all things pink and fluffy, obviously calls for a special celebration. I mean, who doesn't love Tchaikovsky's waltzes? I even went a bit over the top with my outfit, adding a pink sequined bow and a matching sparkly fascinator (what can I say? I live for the dramatic!). And speaking of tutus... you know I've been spending some time exploring the history of this lovely city and it turns out it's all about tutus and waltzes, especially during the 19th century when Viennese women became synonymous with fashion and grace, embracing their love for pink! Just like me, you see.
Today's schedule is bursting at the seams. I've got a private ballet class this morning – and not just any class! This one is focused on classical ballet, a truly special opportunity to hone my technique with an internationally renowned instructor, Monsieur Benoit (who has, you'll be delighted to hear, been a huge fan of pink tutus for years!). This evening, I'm heading to the Vienna State Opera for the ultimate treat – a performance of The Nutcracker.
Before I go, let me tell you about the exquisite fashion I spotted here in Vienna:
- Pink and opulent: Forget those simple black ballet shoes! In Vienna, the ballerina aesthetic is bold and daring, filled with sparkling pink dresses, velvet scarves and knee-high boots. There are shops all over the city that showcase this truly feminine and elegant style - Vienna knows how to do fashion, you know!
- Embroidered dreams: I have to tell you, the fabric in Vienna! Delicate embroideries, luxurious velvet, shimmering satin - oh, it makes me wish I had my sewing machine here with me. Imagine: a tutu embroidered with a pattern of pink and gold butterflies! Just exquisite.
- Charming boutiques: From the traditional department stores with their elegant chandeliers and grand staircases to the smaller, more eclectic boutiques on hidden side streets, there is a treasure trove of fashion inspiration to be found in this city. Today, I'm exploring a quaint shop nestled in a side street near the opera house - full of lace, velvet, and those wonderful, delicate beads I love so much!
And my most memorable moment from the last week? Taking a scenic train ride through the Austrian countryside!
Oh, I almost forgot - I'm going to a beautiful concert at the Musikverein later this week! I must be getting into the spirit of things. I hear their Golden Hall is absolutely magical! I can't wait! And guess what? It's not a regular concert – they have invited a renowned violinist who is rumoured to be wearing an enormous pink tutu as part of his performance. Can you believe it? A pink tutu for violin? It sounds truly fantastic.
My mission remains: to wear pink, to spread the joy of tutus and to bring ballet and fashion to every corner of the world. I’m off to prepare for my ballet class now, and perhaps indulge in some Viennese pastries! I shall update you tomorrow on my fabulous evening at the opera!
Till next Wednesday, my lovelies!
Emma (from Derbyshire, England, wearing my pink tutu)
