Hello from Vienna, darling dears! It’s Wednesday, and you know what that means… it’s time for another Pink Tutu adventure! I’m writing this post from a charming little café, just a hop, skip, and twirl away from the famous Vienna State Opera House. This city, with its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and, of course, its unwavering love for the arts, has stolen my heart.
This week, I’m delving into the fascinating history of the ballet tutu and sharing my top picks for a fabulous tutu-worthy shopping spree in Vienna! (Don’t worry, darling, I’ve got a sparkly new one waiting in the wings… well, actually, it's more like a plush, velvet-lined wardrobe… but you get the picture!).
But before we dive into tutus, let me tell you all about how I got here! After a beautiful, moonlit train ride through the Austrian countryside, complete with soaring mountains and the softest, sweetest smell of pine (my fellow travellers even serenaded me with an impromptu rendition of "Edelweiss", I couldn't resist a little twirl in the aisle!), I arrived in Vienna feeling utterly refreshed and ready to dance my way through this gorgeous city.
Vienna, you see, is a city that embraces the spirit of dance like no other. From the world-renowned Vienna State Opera, home to the majestic Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, to the vibrant Ballettschule der Wiener Staatsoper, a haven for aspiring ballerinas, there's something for every dance lover here.
Of course, no visit to Vienna would be complete without experiencing its legendary Waltz. You'll hear the haunting melody echoing through the grand squares, in the charming cafes, and even the street vendors! It’s a truly captivating sound, and it instantly transports me to another era, swirling with elegance and charm.
Speaking of elegance, I’ve already had a day filled with pink-tastic discoveries! My afternoon started at the Museum für Angewandte Kunst, Vienna's dazzling museum of applied arts, where I explored a captivating exhibition dedicated to the evolution of the tutu! The display showcased the fascinating journey of the tutu, from its humble beginnings as simple, ankle-length skirts worn by court dancers, to the dramatic, voluminous tutus we adore today.
The exhibit was filled with intricate details about each era, revealing how changes in societal values, technology, and even dance styles shaped the tutu's evolution. I even got to try on a vintage ballerina's costume, and oh my, darling, I felt like I'd stepped back in time!
Later, my ballet-inspired quest took me to the Hofburg Palace. Imagine this: grand halls filled with sparkling chandeliers, echoing with whispers of emperors and empresses, and… well, this is where things get truly exciting: within these very walls, Empress Elisabeth of Austria (also known as "Sisi") practiced ballet and even performed for the imperial court! Talk about a princess who knew how to dance!
Of course, the highlight of my day was exploring the magical streets of Vienna, spotting the most enchanting shops brimming with exquisite tutus and dancewear! Think shimmering silk, intricate embroidery, and an abundance of glorious pink – it was pure tutu heaven!
But hold on, darling! There’s still so much more to come. I'll be attending a captivating ballet performance at the Vienna State Opera, with my eyes peeled for the newest tutu trends. I've got a secret shopping spree planned for the best tutus in Vienna, and I might just find a hidden café tucked away on a cobbled street to share my insights on all things pink and tutus!
So stay tuned, my lovelies! I’m already excited for the adventures this week has in store, and I can't wait to share them with you. Until next time,
Twirl on, darlings!
Love,
Emma x
P.S. Did I mention the scrumptious cake I indulged in at the Café Sacher? Oh my! It's Vienna’s signature delight, and a must-try when you visit this delectable city!
P.P.S. For all my tututastic fans, you'll find links to the best tutu shops in Vienna and a delightful recipe for the world-famous Sacher cake on my website, www.pink-tutu.com!
