My dad was inducted into the Shriners 2 weeks ago, and has invited us to go to the formal Christmas ball in a few weeks. We are super stoked to go, but, we aren't sure what to wear. Do any of you know if it is a just a long formal dress or if it needs to be a real "ball gown"? We just want to make sure we find the appropriate dresses. Guys are easy with a tux.
Thanks so much for you help! Mom is too embarrased to call and ask the ladies herself.
I suggest you call. It is a logical/reasonable thing to do. I suggest that expectations are likely different across the country.
I would go ahead and call for her, or check out their website or old copies of their newsletter if you can find one on-line and see if there are any photos of last year's party so that you can see what the women wore.
Beads, tea length or longer, full? maybe...if you're youngish, high hemline in the front and long in the back? no. Low V front with lots of cleavage? no. Strapless? maybe. Plain church style dress? no. Better, fancier than church dress. Any sort of a train? No, that would be a trip hazard for anyone around you and if you're not totally used to having one your dress will be in tatters by the end of the evening. Sexy, form fitted mermaid? No, dress demurely so you will honor your family. Dress a bit more conservative that others for this first time. Don't get a dress you hate but something you'll feel beautiful in and comfortable.
Tea length, ankle length, or floor length.
They tell you the what to do and what to NOT do on this site. Very informative. If you have any questions you can always call a hostess and ask.
http://www.elegantwoman.org/
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http://www.elegantwoman.org/definition-of-society-balls.html
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http://www.jjshouse.com/Special-Occasion-Dresses-c3/Tea-L...
LOVE the red one on the top row.
The teal in the middle of the 2nd row.
Red one on the 3rd row.
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http://www.jjshouse.com/Special-Occasion-Dresses-c3/Ankle...
The aqua/light teal one in the middle of the top row
The white one next to it.
Actually, any of these that appeal to you that are not more of a prom dress are excellent choices.
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http://www.jjshouse.com/Special-Occasion-Dresses-c3/Ankle...
That first one, the gray, that's me. Totally for me....
The silvery gray one two below that is awesome too.
Any of these are great choices too.
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hubs took me to something a bit similar and I went full out and bought a ball gown and wrap and dyed shoes and bag, it felt like what I would have worn to prom had my mom been able to guide me. Hubs loved it, but when I walked in I realized I had way over done it. everyone else was in long slinky things not full skirted gowns. So over doing it is as bad as under doing it.
Is it possible to go to a Boutique where you live and ask the sales women???? There might be a chance that other people will be shopping there as well and the staff might have a good feel for what is appropriate, if you ask and they have no other customers going to that ball, walk out and try another place. Working with a boutique you might also lessen the chance of showing up in something that someone else is already wearing.
Google, under "Images"
Shriners' Christmas Ball, and then the city that it is being held in.
See if there are any photos.. Or search their local newspaper under society or people and see if there are photos.
I would just call and ask on your mom's behalf. That way there is no question in your mind. Have fun!
You really should call or I like Laurie's idea, but it really all depends on where you are. Some places go all out and some do not. I know my dad was one when we were little and it was a huge affair with long dresses etc, but now a days not so much.
I don't think you can go wrong though with a long black dress and some jewelry.
What did Wilma and Betty wear when Fred and Barney wore their hats? :)
Little black dress with bold costume jewelry?
Simple... call and ask.
I don't understand why mom would be so embarrassed to ask a simple question but... if she is, call and ask for her.
If the guys wear a tux then it is pretty formal. I'd find out for sure if it were me so I wouldn't run the risk of embarrassing myself if I were over or under dressed.
