Hello darlings! It’s Wednesday, and you know what that means – time for a little Viennese waltz with your favourite pink tutu-clad blogger! I’m writing to you from the heart of Vienna, a city steeped in history, waltzing tunes and, of course, ballet. Oh, Vienna, you’ve swept me off my feet!
It feels surreal to be here, surrounded by all this magnificent architecture and history. Vienna is a city where the whispers of Strauss waltzes and the echoes of Habsburg royalty still linger in the air. But you know what I’ve discovered? Even in a city steeped in tradition, there’s a touch of the flamboyant, the theatrical, and yes, even a little pink!
A Royal Ballet BlitzToday, my darlings, I’m sharing my whirlwind experience at the Vienna State Opera, a true gem of this city. Imagine a grand theatre, dripping with ornate décor, and you'll be close! This place is practically a ballet history lesson wrapped up in gold leaf. The moment you enter, it feels as though you’ve stepped back in time to an era of velvet gowns, swirling tutus, and elegant gentlemen.
Before the show, we (me and a fellow tutu enthusiast, an absolute darling named Beatrice, who happened to be staying at the same charming hotel) enjoyed a scrumptious tea in the Viennese Rose Garden. It was just divine – dainty sandwiches, the finest tea and of course, those scrumptious cakes they're known for here. Beatrice is a former ballerina from the Royal Ballet School in London – she's practically ballet royalty! So much to learn from her. She tells me she's got connections with some of the world-famous dancers at the Vienna State Opera – oh, I do hope she can get me backstage sometime, fingers crossed!
The Magic of ‘Giselle’Now, onto the ballet itself – 'Giselle'. I confess, dear reader, my heart skipped a beat as I heard those famous strings kick in and saw the opening tableau. It’s a beautiful ballet, tragic, and hauntingly beautiful. Every pirouette, every jeté felt charged with emotion. This is why I love ballet so much, the storytelling through the language of movement is simply captivating. I’m still giddy from all that grace and elegance!
As I’m sure you’re aware, ballet history is intertwined with the evolution of the tutu. And what's a ballet without a fabulous tutu, eh? You know me and my obsession with tutus, well, ‘Giselle’ was no exception. The tutus in the Vienna State Opera were something else, exquisitely designed and, as always, in varying shades of pink!
I don’t know about you darlings, but Vienna seems to have sparked a certain creative fire within me. Imagine – a ballet themed fashion collection, with pieces inspired by the grand costumes and swirling silhouettes I’ve seen tonight! It’s an idea I might have to explore when I return to the UK.
Train, Tune, and TeacupsOf course, every good trip to Vienna demands a horse-drawn carriage ride! You have to feel like an empress, right? Imagine being whisked through the cobblestone streets, passing the grand palaces and ancient churches, and being a mere hop, skip and a jump from the sweet scent of Sachertorte wafting out of a nearby bakery. It was divine!
Speaking of travel, my Vienna adventure started with a leisurely journey by train, a perfect way to enjoy the countryside scenery and write up the week’s blog post – so dreamy! Vienna and its surrounds were a delight. I've also taken a few leisurely bike rides – well, okay, let's call them stylishly choreographed rides with a few dramatic flourishes (think arabesque, anyone?). The cycle paths are lovely.
Tomorrow, my darlings, I'm going to see what secrets lie in the vast MuseumsQuartier, a neighbourhood teeming with art galleries, cafes, and artistic creations. And who knows what fashion finds I’ll discover tucked away amongst the cobbled alleys and bustling markets of this magical city!
I’ll be back next Wednesday with a brand new Vienna-inspired pink tutu outfit for your viewing pleasure. In the meantime, stay inspired, stay stylish, and don't forget to sprinkle a little pink into your life!
Your ballerina in Vienna,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
