Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, writing to you live from Vienna, Austria! Can you believe it? I’m actually in Vienna, the city of waltzes, strudel, and stunning architecture! Oh, and let’s not forget, the birthplace of one of my favourite ballet superstars, Rudolf Nureyev! This is truly a dream come true!
Vienna is like stepping straight out of a fairy tale. Imagine cobbled streets, pastel-coloured buildings, grand palaces, and charming cafes spilling onto the sidewalks – all of this under a clear blue sky. I’ve barely even left my hotel room, but I already feel utterly smitten with this city.
Today is Wednesday, which, as you all know, is Pink Tutu Vienna day! And what better way to celebrate a new adventure than in my favourite shade of pink – yes, the vibrant, rosy hue that makes everything just a little bit more special! So, as you read this, picture me in a perfectly fluffed pink tutu (the one with the adorable sequined butterfly) as I take you all on a whirlwind tour of my adventures so far.
From Derbyshire to Vienna: The JourneyThis journey has been nothing short of magical. First, there was a charming, quaint train ride through the English countryside. I love train travel; the gentle rocking, the soft clattering of the wheels, and the opportunity to truly soak in the passing scenery. I actually sat by the window with my knitting needles, making a new pink cashmere scarf for a special performance coming up later this month!
The journey continued with a short but exhilarating ride through the German countryside – and then…BOOM! I arrived in Vienna!
The station itself was an art nouveau masterpiece – imagine stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and towering columns. Stepping onto the platform felt like I was walking into a classic movie.
Then, my trusty steed arrived - a glorious chestnut-brown horse called “Leo”! He was magnificent - so handsome, gentle, and incredibly patient as he led me to my hotel! Oh, darling, I’m absolutely in love with Leo. He knows exactly how to handle a princess, bless him.
I knew Vienna would have me enchanted, but the actual energy of this city is beyond anything I could have imagined. There is a magic, a kind of sparkling spirit that's palpable, even as I walked past the historic Hofburg Palace or meandered through the beautiful Volksgarten.
The Vienna State OperaNo visit to Vienna would be complete without experiencing the Vienna State Opera. And this weekend, I’ll be attending my very first ballet performance in this world-renowned venue! Oh, the anticipation is thrilling. I’ve chosen a pale-pink tulle dress that is almost the same colour as the stage curtain. Do you think it will clash?
I’m thinking of dancing in the street when I exit the opera, what do you think? Maybe not in the tutu, darling, but I will be wearing my ballet flats – they will blend right into the cobblestone streets, it will be such a Parisian-esque scene.
### Vienna's Ballet History
It would be remiss of me to talk about Vienna without mentioning its fascinating history of ballet. This city has always held a special place in the ballet world. Remember those classic ballerinas like Anna Pavlova, who captivated audiences worldwide? The Vienna State Opera was her “second home”. This is a rich tapestry of history and culture and ballet was woven through every thread of its existence.
Talking of ballet, do you know about the "Pink Tutu"? It’s not a well-known ballet term – but it should be! Think of the iconic fluffy tutus worn by ballerinas like Margot Fonteyn and Misty Copeland, which are synonymous with ballet itself. My vision, my darling, is for pink to be the signature colour of tutus everywhere. A global explosion of pink, if you will. What could be more elegant and stylish? More uplifting and fun?
How to find the perfect Pink Tutu:
I love shopping, as you know, darling! And let me tell you, Vienna is a shopping paradise for fashion enthusiasts. But for me, it’s not just about high-street fashion. There’s something really special about seeking out those exquisite, hand-crafted tutu shops – you know, the kind that have been in family business for generations and still work with the finest lace and tulle. My hunt begins tomorrow. If I discover the ultimate pink tutu (for me!), I’ll share all the details with you in next week’s blog!
I’m looking forward to discovering the hidden gems of Vienna - those unique shops where the air is alive with fabric and lace and those secret boutiques selling the finest ballet accessories. I hope to be back here in the future, so if anyone wants a tutu or a ballet-themed dress for any special event, let me know! My heart's already been captured by this beautiful city.
Fashion Inspiration: A Symphony of StyleWhile we’re on the topic of fashion, I need to mention Vienna’s unique style. It’s all about grace, sophistication, and a certain sense of elegance that radiates throughout this city. For instance, on my way to a candlelight cafe tonight, I saw a woman wearing an exquisite navy coat paired with an elegant pair of heels. Her hair was styled in soft waves that almost flowed with the graceful way she moved. It reminded me of Audrey Hepburn – what an inspiring style icon!
The men here in Vienna also exude a particular charm, they’re impeccably dressed, but always seem relaxed and stylish, too. I do believe that a bit of pink in a man's wardrobe would enhance the overall look – imagine a pink silk scarf with a tailored suit! Just the slightest hint of pink and everything takes on a new dimension. And let’s be honest, we all know men look fabulous in pink!
Did you see the outfit the famous football star David Beckham wore to the recent fashion awards? I can’t even! What a PINK inspiration.
Vienna has a way of drawing inspiration from the past while also looking ahead to the future, and it’s no surprise that fashion is part of that. This city's sartorial landscape is truly an exciting blend of timeless classics and fresh, contemporary ideas, a little like a ballet show itself!
I've already fallen head-over-heels with Vienna’s fashion scene. It is all about grace, elegance, and embracing the delicate details – not so different from ballet, really. Vienna is my newest inspiration – it is already seeping into the ballet and my clothing designs for next season. The Pink Tutu range is expanding, that’s for sure!
Ballet & Viennese Street PerformersYesterday, I wandered through the Old City and discovered a little gem – a bustling, charming, outdoor ballet market. The smell of fresh flowers and pastries filled the air while traditional musicians entertained with their sweet, lilting melodies. There, in the heart of the market, was a street performer dressed in a vibrant pink tutu – oh darling! It was like something straight out of a dream!
You see, in Vienna, it’s quite common to see ballet inspired street performances. Maybe the tradition goes back to those great ballet performers who once called this city home, I’m not sure. But it adds such a magical touch to this already vibrant city. My vision is that one day every city will have its very own street ballet scene, full of pink tutus of course!
Here are my favourite things to see in Vienna:
- Schonbrunn Palace: A fairytale palace with a sprawling garden. Perfect for exploring the majesty of history and for taking a break from city life!
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral: This architectural masterpiece is home to the Vienna State Opera. There is something really inspiring about the grandeur of it all!
- Belvedere Palace: This is home to an impressive collection of art including works by Gustav Klimt. Art is such an important part of Vienna and its history. It really makes this city unique.
The Albertina Museum – Vienna is full of art! I want to see as many pieces as possible before I leave, to fuel the ballet designs in my imagination!
Things to do while you’re there:
Take a ride on a Fiaker (horse-drawn carriage) - What’s more Viennese than a fiaker ride through the streets? Oh, darling, you absolutely must try it!
- Listen to a Viennese Waltz: Don’t miss the traditional Waltz music - so elegant, so charming! And I bet there are tutus all over the dance floor too!
- Visit the Naschmarkt: This market is a kaleidoscope of colours and smells!
- Take a cake walk: Enjoy the coffee houses - Vienna’s unique coffee culture. It’s absolutely heavenly!
- Buy Mozartkugeln: This traditional Viennese confectionery is perfect as a souvenir for your loved ones!
Vienna truly has captured my heart, with its blend of elegance, history, and ballet culture. I'll be sharing all of my Vienna experiences with you in future posts. But until next week, be sure to twirl with confidence and let the pink shine through, my darlings!
What are your favourite things about ballet? And have you ever dreamed of wearing a Pink Tutu?
Let me know in the comments below!
Your ballet-loving, Pink Tutu wearing, Emma
P.S. * Don't forget to check out the Pink Tutu website at *www.pink-tutu.com. We are adding new designs and features weekly. Stay tuned!
Stay tuned for my next blog! And don’t forget, pink is always the answer!
