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The Gala Ball is
one of those social events when attention needs to paid to
choosing the correct clothing and accessories.
We would like to briefly mention some of the social etiquette
rules.
Dress code
Gentlemen
In the event of attending a ball where there is no dress code in
the form of dinner jackets or tails, it is appropriate to wear
a dark suit made of a lighter fabric. The most appropriate
colour is black, other dark shades may be anthracite,
graphite or navy blue. A subtle pattern is acceptable for the
darker shades.
The ideal colour for the shirt is bright white. A sober coloured
shirt is acceptable and may help to complement your
partner’s attire. A black coloured shirt is inappropriate. The
best shirt is one with a wing collar (it suits most face shapes
and attracts attention). However, it is almost impossible to get.
It is recommended to wear a tie or a bowtie with the suit. The
bowtie for a dark suit should be black, should you choose to
wear,
for example, a red bowtie, the handkerchief should then be of
the same colour. A colourful bowtie is to be left for other
occasions.
The colour rules for ties are more relaxed. It is important to
coordinate the shirt with the tie, but be careful about
combining bolder
patterns. The rule “less is better” aplies here.
It is also important to choose appropriate footwear. Patent
leather shoes are best to accompany dinner jackets or tails,
dark
suits go best with elegant black dress shoes with leather soles.
There is no choice for the colour of socks, the only appropriate
colour is black and they must also be of sufficient length.
It is best if couples coordinate their clothing.
Ladies
For such an occasion as this ball presents, ladies may wear a
ball gown, that is a beautiful dress that comes below the ankles.
However, today when a lady presents herself at a ball in a
short dress, nobody objects.
However, should the partner wear a dinner jacket,
the lady may dress in a suitable dress of any length, such as
a long dress, a long skirt with a top or she may opt for a short
cocktail dress.
The material and cut of the dress should be above all
appropriate to her age, shape and the festive character of the
event in question.
Should the man wear a black or dark suit, the lady should wear a
long dress or a long skirt with a top. She may also wear
a skirt slightly shorter but the material and cut should stay
very formal. The dress may be shiny, sequinned and striking.
If the woman wears a sleeveless dress or a dress with a low
neckline, she should also don a thin silk or chiffon scarf.
Stockings are compulsory. Regarding shoes, high heeled court
shoes are worn. However, ladies, you are expected to dance as
well as walk in them.
The handbag should be small, the best choice is a clutch handbag
where you can put a handkerchief, a powder compact,
a lipstick and a small bottle of perfume. The bag may be in the
same colour or material as the dress. Ladies may also wear
gloves, long ones with long dresses, short ones with shorter
dresses.
With beautiful ball gowns it is advisable to wear suitable
jewellery.
Shaking hands
When two couples are introduced, the lady of higher social
importance offers a handshake first to the lady of lesser social
importance and then to her partner. The hand squeeze should be
brief and firm. When kissing hands, the man’s lips do
not touch the woman’s skin.
Table
etiquette
When joining guests at the table, we introduce ourselves to
others already seated. The guests should stand up.
The lady sits on the man’s right hand side. The conversation at
the table should maintain a good mood among the guests.
Social
conversation
The conversation should flow naturally. Everybody should listen
attentively and steer clear of topics that are uninteresting
to the others. We do not talk about illnesses, intimate matters,
disasters or politics.
Dancing
The
Waltz is the king of the ball and every guest should be familiar
with it.
Dancing may commence only after it has officially been announced.
The man is the first to invite the lady to dance
and if she accepts, he may lead her to the dance floor. After
the dance is finished, he will then escort her back to her
seat and thank her for the dance.
Courteous
behaviour
At a social gathering the lady is superior to the man. The man’s
task is to protect her and do everything to
make her feel comfortable. For example, a lady should never top
up her drink herself or even ask her partner to do it for her.
Smoking etiquette
Smoking is permitted only when it is explicitly allowed, usually
in a designated area.
Nevertheless, you must not bother others with your smoking.
Drinking
alcohol
A gentleman must never lose control of himself as a result of
excessive alcohol consumption. One must leave the ball
in the same state as one came – that is with grace, dignity and
perfectly presented.
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