Hello my darlings! It's Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad, waltz-loving, ballerina extraordinaire, and I'm positively buzzing to be back in Vienna, the City of Music and waltzes! This week, I'm embracing all things Viennese - the opulent architecture, the divine pastries, the breathtaking ballet performances, and of course, the most elegant fashion on this side of the Danube.
Wednesday is officially Pink Tutu Vienna Day on my blog, and oh darling, let me tell you, this Wednesday was a proper whirlwind of wonder! It all started with the most gloriously sunny morning. I popped out to a delightful little cafe just around the corner from my hotel. My, how those pastries did tempt my tastebuds! Imagine flaky Viennese pastries dusted with powdered sugar and plump with a tangy berry filling, all washed down with a fragrant coffee – heaven on a plate!
I'm rather partial to a leisurely morning coffee, but then, duty calls, and today's call was a trip to the Vienna State Opera, my absolute favourite venue for an afternoon of ballet! Just stepping inside the Vienna State Opera takes you back to another era – those elaborate chandeliers, those gilded halls, that buzz of excitement – it truly is a marvel. Today, we had a treat - "La Bayadère"! I just love the intricate choreography of this ballet, the gorgeous costumes, the passion and drama, the incredible athleticism – a ballet aficionado's dream come true!
You wouldn't believe it, but after the ballet, I had a serendipitous encounter! Imagine my joy at running into the most lovely dancer at a local market just across from the opera house! Her name is Helga and she’s an absolute gem! Not only was she utterly charming, but she also offered to give me a tour of her favourite boutique nearby, filled with vintage Austrian garments - my heart fluttered like a hummingbird! We wandered amongst exquisite pieces, a kaleidoscope of colours and textures, each piece brimming with the unique stories of its past. It was like stepping back in time – with a modern twist!
Now, you all know how much I adore the history of fashion, particularly the stories woven around the tutus. Well, today's vintage treasure hunt just had to be documented! My phone was snapping away, recording every last detail of these unique garments. You can bet your bottom dollar this post is getting a collection of photos on my www.pink-tutu.com page!
After an afternoon of shopping, it was time to replenish those dwindling energy levels, and let me tell you, this was no ordinary tea stop! This little Viennese teahouse had a courtyard garden brimming with beautiful, blossoming flowerbeds and charming stone walls draped with creeping ivy. We sipped delicious hot chocolate – rich, velvety smooth and sprinkled with cinnamon – as Helga recounted tales of Vienna's ballet scene. She talked about the dedication of the dancers, the joy of bringing beauty to life on the stage, and the dedication of audiences who yearned for stories told through the magic of movement. My soul was truly fed!
As the sun began its descent, it was time for another experience that set my heart fluttering. Tonight, we had tickets for the Volksoper Wien, the biggest music and opera theatre in Vienna! I adore the eclectic mix of musical offerings at this theatre - musicals, ballet, opera, all under one roof. This was my third visit to the Volksoper, and tonight's show – "Fiddler on the Roof" - just stole my heart. The music, the dance, the emotion, the storytelling, the gorgeous sets - a real theatrical feast! I love watching how a well-performed show, regardless of genre, pulls together an audience. There were so many smiling faces throughout the show and a whole bunch of happy tears when it ended! It reminded me that the joy of performing, of sharing beauty and telling stories, truly transcends genre!
With the end of the performance, the day began its final twirl. Helga waved goodbye at the station as I settled onto the comfortable plush seats of the night train, all bundled up in my vintage faux fur scarf (a real score from the boutique this afternoon!). This was no ordinary train journey. Vienna's railway network weaves a magical path through the city's streets, showcasing its hidden treasures and the glimmering lights reflecting on the Danube. Vienna, you truly are enchanting, a city that captivates the senses, a city that inspires me to dance my heart out!
My dear readers, I know what you’re thinking – “but how can I get my hands on a beautiful, swirling tutu, just like yours, Emma?!” Well, don’t you worry your lovely little head! Keep an eye on my upcoming post – "Where To Find Your Perfect Tutu" – I’ll be sharing my favourite spots to find tutus online, in boutiques and even some tips on making your very own, personalized pink tutu creation!
Until next Wednesday, may your days be filled with grace and glamour, lots of whimsy, and of course, some joyful dancing!
With love and twirls, Emma, Pink Tutu Vienna
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Stay fabulous!
