Oh my goodness, darlings, Vienna is just… well, dreamy. As I write this, my feet are still tingling from an incredible performance by the Vienna State Opera Ballet, and the sound of Strauss waltzes still echoes in my ears. This city truly lives up to its reputation as the heart of Europe!
As you know, I’m all about celebrating the power of colour, especially my favourite, pink, and this week I’ve been taking it to the next level here in Vienna! You see, I’ve always been a huge fan of ballet, so I simply had to bring a few of my pink tutus along on this trip! This vibrant city is such a feast for the senses – think beautiful buildings, delicious pastries, and captivating ballet performances - and I wanted to ensure I’d add my own touch of Pink Tutu Sparkle to the experience.
Today, I’m feeling utterly inspired by all things Viennese and the iconic tutus that dance on stage at the world famous Opera House. There’s something truly magical about seeing such breathtaking dance routines, and, honestly, a certain level of bravery in the fact that those talented ballerinas can hold their balance whilst sporting those gloriously fluffy creations!
My Viennese adventure began, as it always does, with a ride on a delightful train journey. My friend Eleanor (you may remember her from our trip to Edinburgh!) is here with me this time. She's a natural at travelling, as I always seem to pick the wrong seats, I'm hopeless! It turns out there was a secret, a tip she gave me before we boarded and as a result, we sat with amazing views out of the windows and so enjoyed the journey together! Then came Vienna’s charming charm. We took a stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Innere Stadt – a feast for the eyes with its opulent palaces and ornate churches – before we stopped to marvel at the glorious Hofburg Palace, the heart of the Habsburg Empire.
Of course, a visit to Vienna would be incomplete without a delectable Wiener Schnitzel! It is said that Hotel Sacher, Vienna's famous landmark hotel is credited with creating the dish back in the 19th century and it still stands proudly on the menu at its traditional restaurant – needless to say, my taste buds are thanking me for that one! We did indulge in some scrumptious pastries too (the Sachertorte - it’s de rigueur in Vienna!), savoring every last morsel whilst people-watching at the historic Café Central.
Then, the highlight of my entire week, darling: I spent a glorious evening at the Vienna State Opera! There is something deeply moving about the grandeur of a grand theatre, with plush seats, rich red velvet curtains, and that special kind of hushed anticipation you can only experience during an evening at the opera. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't done my bit to set the scene – let's just say my Pink Tutu had its very own front-row seat!
It truly felt as if we had been transported back to the days of Johann Strauss! From the stunning performance of the corps de ballet in their beautiful tulle skirts to the dramatic storytelling by the principals – it was an extraordinary evening. As the final curtain fell and the applause filled the hall, I realised that the true beauty of ballet lies not only in its technical brilliance but also in its timeless story-telling power.
Taking a Leaf from Vienna's HistoryBefore I get to our plans for today (which are rather exciting!), I wanted to take a moment to discuss my recent passion: the history of the tutu. The sheer evolution from its humble beginnings – a simple, ankle-length skirt - to the spectacular and dramatic costumes we see today is fascinating. There is so much history tied into the elegant, flowing designs of a ballet costume! There's a whole world of fabrics, from gauzy layers to opulent silks, all with their own unique story to tell. It's just magical.
Shopping in Vienna!After such a decadent day, we needed some Retail Therapy - something that's high on my list during any trip. The boutiques here in Vienna offer so many tempting treats, and, with my Pink Tutu as my muse, I must admit I got swept away! It seems there are new fashions emerging constantly here and I just have to 'dip my toe' (a tutu inspired word for shopping?) into Vienna's shops, you see.
Today I'm totally excited! We've been booked in for a special riding lesson. There is a Riding School in the city's Schönbrunn Palace, and yes you guessed it darling – we're going to wear tutus while we learn the elegant skills of horseback riding! And before you ask, I think it goes without saying I’m already planning my outfits! There’s nothing quite like pairing the grace of a tutu with the beauty of a horse, especially at the Imperial Riding School! The majestic horses here and the graceful movements of the riders always make for a show stopping, captivating and absolutely mesmerizing experience!
Later, it’s off to the Theatre an der Wien. Tonight we’ll be enjoying a production of ‘Carmen’, so the drama is already brewing in anticipation! There’s so much culture to discover here in Vienna - something which I feel has definitely sparked my imagination.
Don’t worry, I’m going to be bringing you more stories from this fabulous city - just be sure to check back in next week, on our little Pink Tutu blog.
Until next time!
Emma x
PS. For all you fashion lovers, a little sneak peek into what I've packed: a chic vintage lace dress in shades of blush and apricot (it’s truly stunning!), my signature Pink Tutu, and a couple of elegant hats. My aim for this trip – apart from exploring this wonderful city and savouring every delicious moment – is to showcase how to *embrace a sense of pink tutu joy wherever I go.
I want to inspire *everyone to rock their own pink tutus, to bring a bit of whimsy to their wardrobes, and above all to feel confident in their own style. Stay tuned!*
