#PinkTutuVienna blog on 2021-11-24

Hello darlings!

It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another dose of pink-tutu-filled travel bliss! This week, I've been twirling my way through the stunning streets of Vienna, Austria! You might remember that I'm a big fan of trains and horses - and Vienna just has this gorgeous romantic fairytale feel to it. Think horse-drawn carriages, elegant palaces, and classical music drifting through the air. It's the perfect recipe for a magical ballerina adventure!

This week I've been focusing on embracing all things tutu and theatre in Vienna. And believe me, darling, this city doesn't disappoint. Let's dive right into the highlights of my Vienna adventure, shall we?

Vienna is a city bursting with ballet history and beauty. From the stunning Vienna State Opera, where legendary ballerinas have danced for centuries, to the impressive dance studios and museums showcasing the history of the tutu itself (more on that later, lovelies!), this city is a ballet lover's dream come true.

Imagine, darling, waltzing through the corridors of one of the most iconic opera houses in the world! That was me this week, feeling like a real-life prima ballerina as I explored the Vienna State Opera. This majestic building is steeped in history and tradition, and walking through the grand foyer, I could almost hear the echoes of the famous voices and the thunderous applause of bygone eras. It truly feels like a grand spectacle, and a truly wonderful reminder that ballet is an art that spans centuries and generations.

I spent a dreamy hour strolling through the halls, admiring the stunning architecture and imagining all the stories these walls have seen. It's like a mini museum within itself, displaying impressive sculptures, paintings and historic costumes. Honestly, I'm a little in love! You can tell, by the incredible details and sheer beauty of this building, just how much passion they pour into the arts here.

Now, who doesn't love a good ballet performance? On the 22nd, I finally got to see my first ballet show at the Vienna State Opera. Oh my word, it was utterly exquisite! It's one of those performances you simply have to see to fully appreciate, darling. I'll have to share a few sneaky photos with you soon.

I fell in love with the costumes - oh my! And I couldn't help but get caught up in the romance of the storytelling, the emotional depth of the dancing, and the overall magic of live performance. It truly transported me to another time and place, reminding me just why I adore the theatre so much. The energy in that grand auditorium, I tell you, it was pure electric. I felt a connection to the dancers, the music, and the whole audience - a magical feeling, truly.

Talking about history, darling! I stumbled upon something utterly exciting while browsing Vienna's museum scene: the Kunsthistorisches Museum! I went into this incredible building expecting to see stunning paintings (and there were indeed hundreds), but I was blown away to discover their fashion and textile collections.

There, amidst the beautifully crafted robes, jackets, and jewellery, nestled a collection of stunning antique tutus! I could barely contain my excitement, darling. You know me and my passion for these gorgeous tulle creations!

They even had a section devoted to the evolution of the tutu - imagine, darling, from its earliest, more simple designs to the magnificent, billowing tutus of today! It was such an eye-opener. And, let me tell you, the tutus from the 1800s - so beautifully crafted and detailed, the perfect mix of delicate and majestic. I practically cried, darling!

This stunning imperial palace in Vienna was next on my list, darling! The moment I walked through the gates, it was as if I was stepping straight out of a fairy tale. Just like that, imagine the sun shining through the elegant arches of the courtyard, creating these intricate, shimmering light patterns - the perfect setting for an Instagram photoshoot! And the Hofburg Palace's beautiful gardens just added to the whole fairytale aesthetic. You can bet I had my camera at the ready!

This building houses the Imperial Apartments, a treasure trove of lavishly decorated rooms. They even have a museum showcasing the opulent crowns and royal jewelry worn by past emperors and empresses. Imagine, darling, walking through the history of the Habsburg Dynasty. I was truly enchanted!

### Indulging My Sweet Tooth at Café Sacher

Speaking of enchanting experiences, darling, I couldn't possibly have been in Vienna without a visit to Café Sacher - home to the famous Sachertorte! You know how much I love pastries - especially if they involve chocolate. Well, I'm delighted to report, this classic Viennese torte truly lived up to the hype! The dense, rich chocolate, paired with a smooth apricot glaze - it's the perfect after-ballet treat! And I couldn't resist having a spot of tea with my slice of cake - absolutely divine, darling. I must say, I highly recommend adding a visit to Café Sacher to your Vienna itinerary. You'll thank me later!

Now, I simply cannot talk about Vienna without mentioning the absolutely incredible fashion scene here! This city knows how to embrace the artistic flair and bring out the chic side in everyone. It's easy to see why Vienna is such a trendy destination for fashion lovers, with designers and stylists from all over the globe wanting to capture a piece of this glamorous city. And when you add in the incredible art galleries, theatres, and concert halls - it's simply an incredible cocktail of style and culture.

And you can bet, darling, I've been on a little shopping spree myself! You see, every great ballerina needs a well-stocked wardrobe! This trip has definitely given me inspiration for some future pink tutu creations, maybe a touch of Austrian lace and crystal detailing... I’ve been admiring all the lovely fabric shops around the city, picking up a few pink ribbon and sequins, as well.

Let me give you a few of my personal Vienna recommendations for fellow ballerina travellers:

• Getting around: While you'll certainly be tempted to take the city's iconic trams or subway, there's something extra magical about exploring Vienna on foot or, if you're lucky enough, by horse-drawn carriage. I opted for the carriage ride, darling! I simply felt like I was stepping out of a grand movie scene, with the horses gently trotting through the cobblestone streets and the magnificent palaces looming over me! Honestly, it was an absolute dream.
• * Ballet Heaven:* Don't forget to pay a visit to the beautiful and enchanting Vienna State Opera. But make sure to book your tickets ahead of time - this place gets busy! You could also consider checking out one of their fantastic dance studios for a few ballet lessons. I hear the teachers in Vienna are amazing!
• Sweet Treats: I simply cannot recommend Café Sacher enough! And don't forget to sample other delicious Austrian sweets while you're here, darling!
• * Embrace the Atmosphere:* There's a unique charm to the streets of Vienna, it's filled with historical charm. So be sure to soak it all in. This city is just as beautiful by night as it is during the day. Just imagine all those romantic cafes and bustling plazas illuminated by twinkling lights, and the melodic sound of waltzes serenading the streets - it's the perfect backdrop for a romantic stroll, don't you think?
• * Pink-Tutu Vibes:* I definitely think you'll find lots of pink inspiration here! Especially in the window displays, clothing shops, and the overall aesthetic of this chic city! You never know when you might need a pink-tutu fix.

Vienna, you've been absolutely magical! The memories, the costumes, the food - and, oh, the shopping! It's hard to say goodbye to this fairytale city. But don't you worry, darlings, my travels will continue! This is just one of many incredible journeys ahead. You know me, my ballerina heart is constantly on the move. I have a few more places I'd love to share with you, so stay tuned! I'm already planning my next trip and I cannot wait to show you what I find.

As always, darlings, I encourage you to embrace your inner ballerina and join me in spreading a little pink-tutu joy wherever you go!

Until next week, my sweet tutu sisters.

Stay twirling,

Emma 💖

www.pink-tutu.com