Good morning, my beautiful lovelies! It's Wednesday, which means a brand new blog post from your favourite pink-loving tutu enthusiast, landing straight on your screens from the heart of Vienna. Isn't that exciting? I simply cannot believe that I'm here, waltzing through the streets of this magical city, a pink tutu trailing behind me like a delicate ribbon in the breeze.
This week's adventure, my dears, has been one for the books. I've embraced Vienna's rich culture, steeped myself in its captivating history, and, of course, twirled my way through the most divine shops.
This time, I swapped the train for a carriage ride, something I simply couldn't resist doing when in Vienna. It was a truly enchanting experience! The streets of Vienna are a wonder to behold - the cobblestones, the charming cafes with their billowing awnings, the vibrant colours of the architecture. Vienna has the most wonderfully old-world feel, just what a girl with a penchant for the romantic needs!
A Tutu Tale at the Hofburg Palace
And what's a trip to Vienna without a visit to the Hofburg Palace? This majestic building has stood for centuries, a testament to Vienna's illustrious history. It was an absolute dream to wander through its gilded halls and explore its historical rooms. Did you know that the Empress Sisi was quite the fashion icon, with a passion for exquisite gowns? It’s no surprise really, she lived a fairytale life here. I actually tried to find her old tutu collection but they seem to be quite elusive! I’ll have to come back with my investigative skills sharp next time!
A Royal Affair with Ballet
Of course, no trip to Vienna would be complete without a visit to the Vienna State Opera House. Oh, the magic of that place! It’s hard to describe the majesty of the theatre. The elaborate decoration, the soaring ceiling, the sheer history within those walls – I felt as if I had been whisked back to a grand opera performance in the late 1800s!
For a week-long visit, I was lucky to catch a special performance of “Giselle” – which just happens to be one of my all-time favourite ballets. The story of the innocent, loving Giselle, tricked by the cruel Duke, and her transformation into a wilis (a haunting spirit of the forest who forces men to dance themselves to death) is truly captivating. The dancing was breathtaking - the ballerinas soared through the air with grace and power. It filled me with inspiration to continue my ballet journey and maybe one day grace the stage myself!
But enough about the stage! We’ve got to talk fashion! The dress shops here are to die for!
Vienna’s Chic Shopping Scene
Let's face it, my darling lovelies, when it comes to shopping, Vienna really knows how to do it in style. There are the famous Kärntner Straße and Graben streets, which boast a fabulous array of designer stores. But I’m drawn to the quirky and unique, so I sought out independent boutiques tucked away on quieter cobblestone streets. I found one tucked away near the cathedral with a collection of hand-crafted, beaded tutus. Yes, you heard that right! Each one was a unique masterpiece and they have me wondering how I can sneak one of them back to Derbyshire…
Speaking of fashion, let’s talk tutus. As we’re in Vienna, the Waltz is one of the main dance styles! And nothing embodies that floating, swirling beauty of the Waltz like a beautiful tulle skirt, no, tutu. Here, I’m taking inspiration from the ladies of Vienna, wearing tutus in shades of soft lavender and pale rose, perfect for waltzing around the city’s grand squares. It’s been fascinating to find so many beautiful ways to style a tutu.
I even bought a pretty black lace tutu for a romantic evening by the Danube Canal, which I absolutely fell in love with. A stroll under the twinkling lights of the cityscape, twirling gracefully under the gaze of the city’s iconic bridges - now that’s how you have a date in Vienna.
Oh, and I found the most wonderful fabric shop selling softest silk chiffons and delicate lace. I have ideas brewing about a very special tutu to take to the ballet studio. I can’t wait to whip it up. You know me – a tutu-wearing girl is always dreaming up her next masterpiece!
Sweet Delights and Happy Moments
The Vienna cafés are absolutely charming, serving the most delicious Sachertorten, that rich chocolate and apricot jam confection! And you have to try the Wiener Schnitzel, the epitome of Austrian comfort food. After my adventures exploring the city, I find myself escaping the hustle and bustle, nestled in a peaceful café, sipping my cappuccino, with a piece of this wonderful sweet treat and reflecting on all the magic of the day. Vienna is truly enchanting, a perfect place for dreaming up my next ballet performances and tutu creations.
It’s time to take off and continue my waltzing exploration! I promise, my dears, I'll be back next Wednesday with another installment from Vienna. And remember, wear a tutu with confidence.
Love always, Emma
P.S. Remember to visit www.pink-tutu.com for more fashion tips and tutu-related news! And keep sending me those questions! Don’t forget – I love hearing from all my amazing readers!
