Guten Tag, darlings! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another post from your favourite pink-tutu-wearing traveller! I'm Emma, and today I'm bringing you all the fabulousness that is Vienna, Austria!
This city has been a dream, a swirl of waltzes, pastries, and oh-so-much pink! From the moment I stepped off the train (a lovely, scenic journey from my little village in Derbyshire) and saw the magnificent architecture of the Hofburg Palace, I knew I was in for a treat.
My mission for this week, as always, is to spread the joy of the pink tutu and explore the incredible history of this city through a ballet-lover's lens.
A Ballet Ball!
Now, imagine a room dripping in crystal chandeliers, swirling with the melodies of Strauss, and filled with ladies in gowns more beautiful than anything I'd ever seen. This was the "Wiener Opernball", a truly glamorous affair that I had the honour of attending on Saturday! My pale pink tutu twirled with delight amongst the sequins and feather boas.
While it wasn't the most traditional attire for this grand event, it certainly stood out. And honestly? Everyone loved it! They greeted me with wide smiles and “Oh! How beautiful!” (though I'm pretty sure most of them thought I was a rather eccentric costume designer!). I chatted with charming men in tuxedos, admired the elegant waltz of the Vienna Opera Ball debutantes, and even had a brief but delicious conversation with a gentleman who claimed to have danced with Princess Grace Kelly herself back in the day. You just never know who you'll meet in this wonderful city!
Pastoral Ballet: A Tale of Love, Country Life & Tutus
Speaking of "never knowing," did you know Vienna boasts one of the oldest and most celebrated ballet companies in the world? I felt my inner tutu-loving self jumping for joy when I discovered that the Vienna State Opera was hosting "The Sleeping Beauty". This classic, with its majestic music by Tchaikovsky, simply took my breath away.
This performance wasn't your average, straightforward "Sleeping Beauty." The story unfolded in a captivating pastoral setting, the costumes were dreamy, and I swear I caught a glimpse of a pink tutu fluttering among the courtly dancers! (Even the fairies were a bit glam, wouldn't you agree? 😉)
The Pinkest Palace: Schönbrunn
On Sunday, I headed to the stunning Schönbrunn Palace and had my fair share of photo ops in front of the fairytale pink exterior. It was the perfect location to admire my latest vintage pink tutu - a delightful antique with a delicate layer of pale pink lace. You see, pink tutus can be found in any era, from the delicate, romantic designs of the late 1800s to the bolder, more dramatic ones of the 1950s. There's a pink tutu out there for every style, and finding them is part of the fun!
The Pink Palace - Part Deux: My Tutu-ific Vienna Hotel
While I love the magic of a fairytale castle, my lodgings this week were also full of charm, and more importantly, pink! I stayed at a delightful boutique hotel - a tiny pink dream nestled in a quiet courtyard, just a short walk from the city center. It was the perfect spot to slip on a cosy dressing gown and reflect on my adventures while sipping Viennese coffee (oh, how I adore this creamy concoction!).
Vienna Shopping Spree: Ballet & Boutique Bliss
What's a trip to a fashionable city like Vienna without a spot of shopping? Now, let me tell you, I haven't seen so much silk, lace, and intricate detail in a very long time! I snagged a new tutu (because, darling, one can never have too many tutus!) and a lovely little pink fascinator for my next dance party. Oh, and did I mention the gorgeous shoes? My feet were swooning!
Ballet Lessons & Viennese Sweets: Tutus and Treats!
But Vienna wasn't just about waltzing through grand halls and fancy dresses. I even treated myself to a ballet class at one of the city's charming ballet schools! This charming little studio offered everything from classic ballet technique to fun, creative workshops. My muscles ached in a delicious way, and I can already feel myself dancing with newfound confidence. And speaking of delightful experiences, I must tell you about the incredible Sachertorte I devoured after my ballet lesson. This Viennese chocolate cake is so rich and decadent that it literally deserves a standing ovation.
Sharing The Pink Tutu Love: My New Vienna Friends
During my time in Vienna, I’ve met some lovely people, fellow dance enthusiasts, and even shared a few impromptu dance routines with some cute little ballet dancers at the Vienna State Ballet Academy. (You just have to try and resist joining them, right? ) Everyone here loves the pink tutu! And I truly believe everyone could be empowered and inspired by its magical presence in their lives.
Vienna's Call: More to Come!
As always, I'm completely captivated by the enchanting city of Vienna. From the charmingly romantic cafes to the grand architecture, from the graceful waltzes to the mouth-watering pastries, I have a feeling I'm going to be thinking about Vienna long after I've returned to my Derbyshire haven. I already can't wait for my next trip!
Now tell me, darlings! Have any of you been to Vienna? Do you share my love for all things pink? What's your favourite tutu moment? I'd love to hear about it!
P.S. Keep an eye on www.pink-tutu.com for next week’s adventures!
Stay fabulous and don't forget to spread the pink tutu love!
Until next week, darling!
XOXO, Emma
Your Pink Tutu Ballerina
