Oh my darlings,
Happy Wednesday from Vienna! As I sit here in my favourite little cafe on a bustling Viennese street, my eyes are flitting from the gorgeous gingerbread houses across the road to the beautiful floral arrangement adorning our table. And naturally, I'm sporting a brand new pink tutu, of course. This one is a delicate shade of rose pink with an elegant double layer and a shimmering sequined bodice - perfect for a city filled with grandeur and beauty.
You see, this week I've traded my trusty cobbled Derbyshire streets for the grand boulevards of Vienna. A city that drips history and oozes a certain artistic magic that seems to dance in the very air. This week's trip has been all about discovering Vienna's waltzing heart through its exquisite ballet scene and, of course, the magnificent Vienna State Opera House.
A Tutu in the State Opera House
For a budding ballerina, visiting the Vienna State Opera House is a bit like a pilgrim's journey to Mecca. It’s an exquisite neoclassical marvel, with an interior fit for royalty, all grand staircases and swirling chandeliers, gleaming marble floors and plush velvet seating. Every detail is a work of art, an exquisite celebration of the world of classical ballet and opera. My head spun, not from a whirl in a waltz but from the pure spectacle of the place! And when they say you must go dressed up to the opera, they mean it. Think silk, sequins and elegant frocks, darling!
A Taste of Viennese Ballet
It wasn't just the stunning surroundings, but the performance itself which stole my heart. A timeless rendition of 'Giselle', a romantic ballet with stunning choreography, danced by an ensemble of exceptionally gifted ballerinas and dancers. It left me breathless. Every movement, every turn, and leap was pure poetry in motion. I’ve never been so captivated. Of course, no trip to the State Opera House is complete without a twirl on their magnificent stage!
The Ballet Legacy of Vienna
Speaking of ballet, Vienna holds a place of real importance in ballet history. The famed choreographer, Marie Taglioni, brought romantic ballet to its golden age in Vienna. In 1835, she took the city by storm with her breathtaking performance of 'La Sylphide,' a masterpiece that introduced the ethereal pointe technique and, for me, it is the start of the pink tutu as a truly iconic symbol. I love to think that those tiny, pointed shoes and elegant tulle skirts began their ascent to iconic ballet style right here, in the heart of Vienna. Just picture Marie Taglioni gracefully floating on stage, wearing her pink tutu, as the Viennese audience gasped and applauded – quelle belle époque.
My Ballet Boutique Find
Before heading back to the beautiful green countryside of Derbyshire, I had to make a stop at Vienna's most stylish shops! Now, if you're looking for stunning vintage couture with a modern twist, I've found your mecca – 'Madame Coco'. You'd think this quaint boutique was a secret little gem nestled away on a hidden side street but this shop is a true Viennese hidden treasure! Think elegant tulle and silk blouses with luxurious velvet jackets – simply divine. The sheer volume of tulle and lace was quite frankly, exhilarating, and after a lengthy discussion on tutu style, a very excited Emma (that's me!) walked away with a new pink tutu skirt and matching silk blouse that fit me like a dream. My, oh my, what a stylish, delicate creation, just what a ballerina girl needs.
Tutu Tuesday – It's All About Pink
On my first day in Vienna, it just felt right to take on the city's waltzing charm with a little pink tutu magic, especially in Vienna. This week's tutu is a beautiful pastel pink and I’ve named her ‘Viennese Waltz’. Her delicate chiffon ruffles and light as air texture feel perfect against Vienna's air and its historic architecture.
The highlight of my ‘Tutu Tuesday’ was taking a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, wearing 'Viennese Waltz' through the charming cobbled streets. There's nothing quite like riding along Vienna's graceful Ringstrasse and soaking up the majesty of its buildings, whilst feeling like a delicate fairy princess. This was pure Vienna, a city of contrasts with a dash of romance!
Eating and Exploring Vienna
And what's a trip to Vienna without indulging in its delectable cuisine? Vienna has it all from delicious pastries, cakes and decadent desserts to traditional hearty meals that fill you to the brim with hearty goodness!
The Delicious Vienna Style
My must-haves included the Viennese classic 'Apfelstrudel', and I absolutely had to try the Sacher Torte. Oh my darling, what an experience, an indulgence that had my heart humming in perfect harmony with the waltz. And I mustn't forget to mention 'Wiener Schnitzel'. This thinly battered cut of veal was served with fluffy potatoes and the most delicate gravy - simply divine!
The Magical Mozartkugeln
Speaking of delicious indulgence, no visit to Vienna is complete without sampling its signature sweet treat, the Mozartkugeln, exquisite marzipan chocolates coated in dark chocolate – they are quite heavenly, let me tell you! Vienna really does hold a very special place in my heart. It's not just about ballet, it's about an artistic spirit, it's about waltzing in the heart of the city and it's about feeling a very special sense of 'je ne sais quoi', that special Parisian 'je ne sais quoi', you know?
Onward and Upward...To Copenhagen!
So darlings, it's time to wave a sweet farewell to Vienna. And I leave you all with a promise to explore new horizons. Next week, I'll be twirling my way to Copenhagen, a city I hear has stunning ballet performances and enough beautiful design stores to make a ballerina girl utterly delighted. Until next Wednesday, my loves! Don't forget to stay pink!
Emma xx
* www.pink-tutu.com *
