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Proper Formal Attire: Benefits, Ballet, and Glove Etiquette

Formal attire, gloves, ballet, opera, balls

Confusion surrounds choosing attire for formal events, especially those that can be or should be grand.  I receive countless questions concerning attire every year.  Here are a few of my most favorites.  You’ll notice, a few are a number of years old.  Nevertheless, the advice is still the same. 

Bolshoi Ballet Attire Advice

Proper attire for the Bolshoi Ballet

This wonderful young woman had asked for the proper attire for Bolshoi Ballet.  I had thought it would be a bit more formal.  

Thankfully she has shared her experience with us.

Visitor's Experience at the Ballet

“I thought I would let you know the dress code at the Bolshoi Ballet, which was absolutely fantastic. Most of the men wore suits—not dinner jackets—and most the ladies wore smart casual dress.  I saw about four women wearing cocktail/evening dresses, others wore trousers and nice tops or even jeans!!!

We had a great time; it is a shame that people don't seem to want to dress up for these occasions anymore!” 

Benefit Dinner Attire

Dear Polite One,

My husband and I have been invited to attend a benefit dinner for Diabetes, the invitation states to wear your best summer whites.  Does this mean that everyone wears white and, if so, is a dress necessary for me, or are white slacks sufficient?  Please let me know what you think is the proper attire for this event.

Thank you,

JW

Dear JW,

It may be best to call and ask, because so many interpret this differently.  It is supposed to mean that men wear a white linen suit and women dress in very nice dresses, typically white.

Must I wear long, elbow-length white gloves with the ball gown?

Dear Polite One,

I will be attending a very formal ball wearing a strapless, black, partially beaded, full-skirted ball gown. Must I wear long, elbow-length white gloves with the ball gown?

Sincerely,

Glove Etiquette

Dear Glove Etiquette,

When wearing a strapless gown, long gloves are considered part of the outfit.  The bottom line though, it is your choice.  And here's some glove etiquette: If you choose to wear them, please remove them when you begin to dance or when the meal is served.

Sincerely,

The Polite One

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