Wednesday 29th December 2021
Hello darlings!
Can you believe we’re already in December? The festive season is almost over, and 2022 is right around the corner. I love this time of year; the city is all sparkly and merry, the Christmas markets are brimming with festive treats and treasures, and everyone seems just a little bit kinder than usual. Of course, as a ballerina at heart, it's impossible for me to be anywhere without a Pink Tutu Vienna blog post. This week, I’ve been doing what I love best – exploring Vienna, going to ballet, shopping, and taking in the sights.
Vienna is a city steeped in history and culture, and the perfect place to feel the spirit of Tchaikovsky and Mozart. From the grand architecture to the bustling streets and elegant cafes, there’s something for everyone, regardless of their fashion taste or artistic fancy. My mission, of course, is to inspire everyone to embrace their inner ballerina, whether they wear a pink tutu every day or just when they feel like it. It is truly the happiest outfit I can imagine and I love seeing other girls pink tutued up.
The other day, I saw this delightful little girl in a bright pink tutu outside the Opera House (don’t worry, I’ll talk more about it later in this post.) I wanted to hug her. She looked just like a ballerina from one of the storybooks I used to read. And you know what? Even at that young age, she exuded this confidence, this effortless joy – all thanks to her gorgeous pink tutu.
Speaking of Vienna's Opera House, you HAVE to see this place, ladies. Imagine grand chandeliers dripping with sparkling crystals, the scent of anticipation in the air, and the soft rustling of exquisite fabrics… well, that's what the Vienna State Opera is like. The other day, I attended a ballet performance that was just magnificent. It was as though all the stories of fairytale elegance had come to life. The dancing, the costumes - the whole thing was magical, but not in the childish way. Oh no, this was elegance on a whole other level.
A Little About Vienna’s History
In my quest to understand the world around me – in particular the world of dancing, I’ve been doing a lot of research on the history of Vienna, a city of emperors, musicians, and grand balls, where ballet played an integral role. This is, after all, where the waltz was born, a dance which became the epitome of graceful movement, elegance, and of course… romance!
From the Imperial Court of the Habsburgs in the 1700s to the era of the Strausses and Wagner in the 19th century, Vienna was the centre of European music and culture. The grand ballrooms were bustling with dancers, and Vienna was a hub of dance in Europe, creating the iconic, world-famous Viennese waltz. I, myself, have danced it here many times in the grand halls, feeling very much in a time warp. This city simply breathes ballet and romance.
The ballet was an intrinsic part of this vibrant scene. From royal opera houses to intimate performance spaces, the dancers mesmerized the audiences with their skill, poise, and passion. It’s little wonder that even today, Vienna continues to be a treasured destination for dancers and ballet enthusiasts from around the world.
From Opera to Ballet: The Journey of Dance
There is nothing more charming than wandering the streets of Vienna, and of course, that was one of the first things I did upon arriving. There’s this real magic about the city, you feel as though time has slowed down, even though it’s one of the busiest tourist destinations.
What surprised me about the Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera) is how the Opera House and the ballet theatre are part of the same venue, a huge complex with several grand halls. The Ballet Hall, however, is even more intimate and perfect for taking in the art of dancing.
Of course, in true Pink Tutu style, I chose an incredibly elegant and sparkly pink tutu for the opera performance. The design is by Tutu Dream – a lovely boutique near where I stay. With the sparkle and flair of a Vienna ball, I made my way into the building for an unforgettable night. I am hoping I shall soon be performing on the grand stage, as it seems my Pink Tutu Vienna blog is rapidly becoming famous.
Where To Shop in Vienna: Finding the Perfect Pink Tutu
Shopping for the perfect pink tutu, is of course, a journey. Luckily for me, Vienna is home to some fantastic boutiques, offering an amazing variety of designs, colours and styles. I just can't seem to get enough of shopping.
From high-street bargains to luxury brands, here are some places that are my favorites to browse:
- Boutique A - Here you will find exquisite and rare designer tutu gowns in silks and lace.
- Boutique B - There’s something special for everyone at this classic shop. I found a simple tulle tutu with bows. Perfect for wearing everyday with chic attire or jeans!
- Boutique C - I’ve recently discovered this designer boutique and they have such beautiful pink tutu styles for special occasions. This boutique is great for buying Tutus that sparkle with luxurious embroidery and fabric detail.
Don’t forget, that wherever you are in Vienna – a local market, a high street store, a flea market, a shop on one of the lovely winding streets or a specialist tutu shop - if you’re on the lookout, you’re bound to find a pink tutu to delight your heart! It’s something I’ve found to be true for almost every city I visit! It is a gift to be able to bring a little joy into the world, especially by dressing in something so beautiful!
Where To Visit and Enjoy the Culture
Let’s not forget to talk about Vienna itself! For me, Vienna’s culture is so important. And this is truly a city of art! From the museums that are home to works by the masters, to the streets and squares with their majestic buildings, this city has culture* oozing out of its very core.
**My Favorite Spots: *
- The Hofburg Palace: * This breathtaking complex, a majestic palace for the imperial family and the seat of power for centuries, holds so much history and is an *iconic place to soak in a bit of Austria’s rich heritage.
- The Schönbrunn Palace: Built by the Habsburgs in the late 17th Century, it’s immaculately preserved, it’s surrounded by lush gardens with beautiful baroque statues. I had afternoon tea here and it was an afternoon filled with the real essence of Viennese aristocracy.
- The Belvedere Palace: It is so famous for the Gustav Klimt collections housed inside it, that I must go there. There are a vast array of baroque buildings and gardens, plus a sculpture gallery with outdoor sculptures for visitors to enjoy. This palace was commissioned by the Austrian Prince Eugen of Savoy as his summer residence and I just loved walking in its grounds.
Riding and Travelling: A New Adventurous Chapter!
Since the very first Pink Tutu blog, I have travelled extensively, but for this trip I thought I’d embrace a different side of travel. So, after many exciting trips, it was time to hop aboard a train to Vienna and a beautiful adventure through the Austrian countryside! I know you all adore my train rides. I have to say, riding on these beautiful old carriages – very reminiscent of those I found in London – is simply delightful! The train rides through the countryside here have given me peace, beauty, and the most amazing pictures. I also feel a connection with nature which makes this way of travelling perfect for me.
While I don't usually discuss travel too much, on the train I took in Vienna, a new, unique part of me found an element I didn’t expect: the equestrian adventure!
I've never really felt the urge to go on horseback, even though all the ballet and grace. The thought never occurred. Until that is, I went on an unexpected adventure after my train journey to Vienna. I felt an unexpected urge to explore, in my pink tutu of course!
The horse I rode was an incredibly calm and intelligent chestnut. They helped me enjoy the fresh Austrian air and feel free while riding on these amazing roads. It’s something truly extraordinary which really surprised me as it was so new and yet felt so familiar.
Embracing New Pastimes & The Ballet That Binds Us
Being open to new experiences is essential! Riding a horse wasn’t on my to-do list and yet I found myself thoroughly enjoying every minute of this special, unplanned experience.
It reminds me that no matter what adventures you embrace – big or small – you’re capable of experiencing incredible moments of happiness. Even in your pink tutu!
The beauty of it all is that wherever you go, the magical world of ballet will always follow. It’s not a simple style or genre - ballet is about imagination, emotions, expression, and, of course, effortless grace. This unique and incredible language brings us all together!
There is this one dance performance – called ‘Vienna – A Ballet’ by the ballet corps de ballet - that brought together all of my favourite aspects of ballet. It featured gorgeous costumes, music that transported me to a fairytale, elegant sets, and, above all, amazing dance performances, each more beautiful than the next. It really reminded me of why I am in love with the world of ballet.
I Can’t Wait To Explore More
The Viennese charm continues to work its magic on me every day and I cannot wait for more new experiences that this amazing city has in store. If you’re thinking of heading to Austria, I definitely recommend Vienna! It truly is a fantastic destination, steeped in culture, brimming with historical buildings, perfect for romantic walks and experiencing all that ballet has to offer!
Be sure to tune in next Wednesday for another Pink Tutu Vienna blog post!
Yours,
Emma
Pink Tutu
