Hello darling tutu-lovers!
It's Emma, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed adventurer, writing to you live from the enchanting city of Vienna! This Wednesday marks my weekly pilgrimage to www.pink-tutu.com to bring you all the latest adventures in fabulousness.
This week, my journey led me to the heart of Austria, where the cobblestone streets whisper stories of emperors and waltzes, and the air itself hums with a musicality that's simply captivating. But before I spill the beans on all the delights of Vienna, let me tell you how I got here – a tale of trains, horses, and tutus, of course!
The Tutu Trail: Derbyshire to Vienna
As always, my travels began with a twirl-worthy outfit. This time, I was feeling bold and decided to take a spin in a brand new, cherry-blossom pink tutu I found at the delightful vintage shop in Bakewell. I paired it with a crisp white blouse, a navy blue beret, and some ankle boots for a touch of sophistication. You know, it's important to stay true to your signature style, even when embarking on a European adventure!
Now, you may be wondering how I, a humble ballerina with a passion for tutus, manages to afford all these extravagant journeys. Well, let's just say that life isn't just about pirouettes and pretty frocks. Behind every elegant twirl, there's a bit of hustle. In my case, this involves taking to the stage in local productions, fundraising, and occasionally teaching the odd ballet class. After all, a ballerina's gotta do what a ballerina's gotta do, even if it involves a few awkward “pas de deux” with Mr. Frolicks the golden retriever (long story, trust me, it's hilarious!).
This week's journey took me to the train station. It wasn't just any train journey though - no, I opted for the ultimate romantic travel experience – a journey on a historic steam train. Imagine yourself seated in a luxurious vintage carriage, the chug-chug of the engine a lullaby, while you admire the picturesque countryside rushing past. Bliss! I made sure my pink tutu wasn't the only thing making a statement – my trusty, antique hatbox was packed full of dazzling pink tulle, a sparkly sequined cardigan, and my ever-present pair of ruby red opera gloves – a true Parisian touch.
As I alighted from the train in Vienna, a warm breeze ruffled my pink tulle, welcoming me to the city. And wouldn't you know it, my journey wasn't quite over. The next part involved a ride in a horse-drawn carriage! Imagine my joy!
The horses clip-clopped through the historic streets, a scene straight out of a fairytale. I held on to the carriage with one hand, while waving to the passers-by with the other, a true ambassador for pink tutus, spreading the message of joy and femininity.
A Day of Ballet in Vienna: Shoes, Shopping and a Night at the Opera!
As I settled into my beautiful hotel room, a stunning Victorian building overlooking a charming little park, I took a moment to appreciate my surroundings. This wasn't just a visit, it was an immersive experience, a celebration of ballet and style in the very heart of Vienna! After a relaxing afternoon tea (naturally, with a sprinkle of pink, because why not!), I began my ballet exploration of Vienna.
First, a trip to Der Schuhputzer - a tiny, charming shop filled to the brim with hand-crafted dance shoes. Talk about an ode to ballet heritage! This store's been serving Vienna’s ballet community since the 1800s! It was almost as if every pair of shoes whispered secrets of a hundred years of waltzes and pirouettes.
Of course, I had to purchase a pair of dance shoes, something that will bring me great pleasure and joy as I sashay through Vienna’s famous ballet venues. Let's just say they are a glorious shade of bubblegum pink. It would be rude not to, right?
From ballet shoes to ballet costumes – no visit to Vienna could be complete without a visit to Opernmode. I mean, imagine - this store has been creating opulent costumes for the Vienna Opera for decades! It was like stepping into a fantastical wardrobe. They have an absolute treasure trove of glittering sequins, tulle, feathers, and of course, beautiful fabrics in every imaginable colour.
Don’t worry darling tutu lovers, I did purchase a dress, a dazzling pink confection - think "Moulin Rouge" meets “Carmen” and you're getting the picture! Perfect for tonight’s ballet experience.
Waltzing through the Vienna State Opera: A Magical Night at the Ballet
After my fabulous shopping adventure, the evening arrived – time for a cultural feast. My plan was to be a guest at the legendary Vienna State Opera. My dress was ready, a true masterpiece, shimmering like a constellation in the city lights. I completed my look with my ruby red gloves, a delicate pearl necklace, and a feather boa, a touch of vintage Hollywood glam.
And guess what? My evening at the opera was amazing. The orchestra was captivating, and the performance of “The Nutcracker” left me utterly spellbound. Each step, each twirl, the incredible energy in the auditorium - I was enthralled! Even as a seasoned ballet lover, I felt a childlike joy watching the performers bring this enchanting story to life. As I strolled out of the Opera House, I felt utterly charmed and rejuvenated.
Vienna has cast a spell on me – it’s a city brimming with passion for music, history, and, let’s face it, everything stylish! Oh, and the coffee is incredible!
Until next week my tutu darlings! Stay sparkly and spread the joy of dance everywhere you go. I will leave you with a picture of me with my new pink shoes, from Der Schuhputzer, outside the Vienna State Opera!
Don't forget to visit **www.pink-tutu.com every Wednesday for more tutu-filled adventures. And be sure to follow me on social media (find the links on my website!) to join in the conversation, and to see more photos from my travels and all the latest tutu inspiration.
XOXO
Emma
Your pink tutu-wearing, ballet-loving blogger.
