Hello my darling tutu twirlers! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another post from your favourite pink-clad blogger, Emma, currently waltzing her way through the charming city of Vienna.
This week has been a whirlwind of twirling, tutus, and truly stunning ballet performances, all within the breathtaking backdrop of this magical city. I’m practically brimming with excitement and ready to spill the tulle-tastic details!
Vienna is truly a city of dreams for a tutu-loving girl like myself. Imagine: cobbled streets echoing with the strains of Strauss waltzes, magnificent palaces gleaming in the sunshine, and the aroma of fresh Viennese pastries floating on the air. It’s no wonder they call this place the City of Music.
But for me, Vienna’s real magic lies in its ballet heritage. This city gave birth to the Viennese Waltz, that quintessential ballroom dance that has captivated hearts for centuries. And I, of course, am utterly enchanted by the elegant, sweeping movements of the Waltz, a dance so synonymous with this elegant city.
A Royal Affair
My week started with a trip to the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence of the Habsburg Dynasty. It was built in the 13th century, and over the centuries has housed royalty, seen empires rise and fall, and, importantly, been the stage for some of the world’s most extravagant balls.
Stepping through the grand doors, it felt like I’d stepped straight into a historical fairytale. Every corner was bursting with intricate tapestries, antique furniture, and portraits of noble-looking folks in ornate costumes. And then I stumbled upon the ballroom! Imagine a room with shimmering chandeliers, walls painted in soft shades of pink and gold, and a huge wooden dance floor that has been twirled upon by royalty for centuries.
I had to spin! And spin I did, feeling every ounce of imperial glamour flowing through my veins. It’s almost impossible not to twirl when you’re surrounded by such elegance, and my pink tutu, of course, provided the perfect counterpoint to the grandeur.
A Tartan Trip
As it happens, there was also a wonderful fashion exhibit on display at the Hofburg, all about Scottish Tartan. Yes, tutus and tartans! Two of my favourite things! It turns out tartans aren’t just for kilts - there was a beautiful selection of tartan fabrics, and clothes – skirts, dresses, and even an incredible tartan coat.
I found myself deeply engrossed, pondering the history of the kilt, and trying to imagine wearing a flowing tartan skirt. Perhaps that would be my next costume, paired with a vibrant pink tutu. Maybe not, but a girl can dream!
A Waltz at the Vienna State Opera
But of course, no trip to Vienna would be complete without a night at the Vienna State Opera. It is truly the jewel in the city’s crown, a breathtaking venue that has hosted some of the greatest names in music for centuries. It was founded in 1741, has had a distinguished and complex history – which included being damaged by bombs during World War II – and is now once again a thriving center of artistic and cultural excellence.
I’d snagged tickets for a performance of The Sleeping Beauty – the sheer joy and artistry of the performance were breathtaking! The graceful ballet, the romantic music, the opulent costumes... It was as though a fairytale had come to life right before my very eyes!
Of course, the costumes were absolutely stunning – I've always loved tutus, especially those fluffy white numbers you find in The Sleeping Beauty. And the dancing, my goodness, was simply magnificent. Every gesture was filled with precision and grace. It left me feeling completely mesmerized and utterly inspired.
The Imperial Gardens
The next day, I spent a few glorious hours in the beautiful gardens of the Schönbrunn Palace, enjoying the sunshine and admiring the lush flower beds and fountains. It's always such a delight to be outdoors in this elegant city! The Gardens of Schonbrunn are simply sublime!
Imagine this: green rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, magnificent trees that could have been planted by giants, all carefully sculpted and meticulously planned. And then there are the incredible fountains! Imagine powerful jets of water soaring skyward, creating a ballet of their own against a backdrop of perfect, vibrant flowers.
I couldn't resist twirling amongst the blossoms, feeling the sunshine on my skin, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of wildflowers, and the beauty of Vienna all around me.
A Shopping Spree
It wouldn’t be a trip to Vienna without a bit of shopping! There's a whole street – Mariahilfer Straße – dedicated to the fashion and style enthusiast, so, of course, I had to go there!
I strolled along, taking in the shops filled with clothes and accessories from every style imaginable. It was a sensory overload of bright colors, stylish designs, and delicious fabrics, but my eyes kept darting towards anything pink or tutu-related, naturally.
I picked up some beautiful shoes that look absolutely amazing paired with my favourite tulle tutu. And some fabulously-textured chiffon scarves, because what’s a ballet fan without a touch of bohemian charm?
The shops themselves were lovely, so chic! Each shop had its own distinct personality, creating a captivating and stylish shopping experience that's unique to Vienna. The fashion scene here is eclectic and sophisticated, something I love. There's a bit of whimsy, but also an undercurrent of chic elegance and refinement.
Ballet Class and Ballet History
The Vienna State Opera hosts amazing ballet classes, which I am very excited to tell you all about, as I managed to get myself booked in for a private lesson with the company’s very own ballet master!
Imagine my joy when I walked into a beautiful, grand rehearsal studio! And this master, well, he is simply exceptional – patient, knowledgeable, and passionate about the art of dance. I'm learning about the specific techniques used by Viennese dancers and gaining insight into the rich ballet heritage of Vienna.
And we talked history! The history of ballet is fascinating. Did you know that it started as a social dance in the Renaissance? There are even accounts of dancers wearing tutus in the 17th century. But tutus as we know them – with the wide skirts and full forms – really began in the 19th century when the romantic period swept the stage.
You know I’m going to have to write a post specifically about the evolution of tutus. But for now, it’s back to the beauty and tradition that is Vienna!
Riding Through the City
No trip to Vienna is complete without a horse-drawn carriage ride. My favourite thing is the way the horse’s hooves click against the cobblestones. And let’s not forget the carriage – so stylish and elegant – I felt like I was stepping into a film set. Vienna is a place where elegance and history blend so effortlessly.
Of course, a pink tutu is always a wonderful way to add a little extra pizazz. I chose my favorite – a beautiful light pink with lots of tulle – and felt absolutely fabulous as we cruised through the streets.
Next Week
I have so much to share with you, and my dear tutu twirlers, I will! It's hard to pick my favorite part of Vienna, there's simply so much to love: the rich culture, the exquisite architecture, the exuberant music, the vibrant shopping and the stunning art of ballet!
Next week, I am heading out to explore the vineyards, the countryside surrounding the city, which, according to what I’ve read, is said to be a truly enchanting and magical landscape. It should provide a beautiful and very photogenic backdrop to my favorite tutu.
But before I go, let's get a little "Tutu-tastic!" If you’re looking for a little inspiration for your next tutu ensemble, here are a few of my favourite tips:
- Embrace the colour: pink, obviously! It’s the colour of love, happiness, and of course, my favourite tutu.
- Choose the right length: There's a perfect length for every occasion. Choose one that you can twirl in freely.
- Layer up: You can easily add extra layers with different types of skirts and leggings or jeggings to change up your look, without having to wear an actual tutu all the time! For example, you could pair a pair of leggings with a bright pink fluffy tutu.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Have some fun and add some accessories! And remember, confidence is your most stunning accessory.
Until next Wednesday, my darling tutu twirlers, happy dancing and lots of love!
Your always pink and tutu-tastic,
Emma
