How to Dress for a Debutante Ball

Since a debutante ball is a formal introduction of a young lady into good society, it's only natural this celebration would have a strict dress code. While debutante dresses may come in all different styles, one thing stays the same: the dress must be pure white. Furthermore, while the dress may be adorned with a few white crystals or lace panels, most debutante ball committees prefer for the dresses to be as plain and traditional as possible.

Things You'll Need

• List of dress restrictions

Instructions

Dress for a Debutant Ball

1. Set a realistic budget for the dress. Your debutante doesn't need to have the best, or most expensive, dress in the city. There are plenty of beautiful and affordable dresses that would work perfectly for a debutante ball.

2. Ask about restrictions for debutante balls put on by a committee. Some committees will hand out a list of appropriate and inappropriate attire, while others will require prior approval of all dresses worn by the debutants.

3. Visit a local bridal or special-occasion dress store to search for dresses for your debutante. Dresses should ideally be pure white, with no other colors in the trimming. Furthermore, variations of white, such as off-white or champagne, are usually discouraged.

4. Have a dress custom-made based on a design in a magazine. This is a unique way to truly stand out at a debutante ball. Using a local tailor may help make it a realistic and affordable goal.

5. Choose appropriate accessories to go with the dress. A young debutante should have, at the minimum, a pair of long white gloves and white satin shoes with proper heel length. Proper heel length is determined by the final length of the gown and the height of the debutante.

6. Make sure the dress is comfortable. Since the debutante is going to be spending several hours in the same dress, it's very important that she's as comfortable as possible in it to better enjoy the evening.

7. Remember that gentlemen need two separate tuxedos. The first one should be black tie, and will be worn to the rehearsal. The second tuxedo should be white tie, with gloves and tails. This one will be worn to the main event.

Tips & Warnings

• Order the dress as soon as possible to accommodate the numerous fittings that will undoubtedly take place. There can be five or more separate fittings, so it's best to order the dress several months in advance to make sure everything turns out perfect.