Attire for the Olde South Timeline Ball
Want to come to the Olde South Timeline Ball, but wondering what to wear? Not to worry! We have answers for you!
Whatever shall I wear to the ball?! Luckily for y’all, our ball timeline spans 1700-1899, so you have a lot of fun historical eras to choose from! Modern modest formal attire is also welcome, as are formal military uniforms.
Here are some tips to consider when planning your outfit:
Historic Ladies' Clothing
Ladies, choose dresses that don't drag the floor, especially with a train. Dresses that sweep the floor look elegant, but they will trip you up all evening! You may even fall! If you wish to have a train, make sure you can loop it up for dancing.
Headwear for these eras could have included flowers, lace, feathers, ribbons, turbans, a tiara... but NOT a hat. If you are renting a costume, don't let the rental agency talk you into a hat. They are a hazard as they can block your vision and even side-swipe fellow dancers!
Footwear for these eras ranged from ballet flats to low heels. You will want to choose dressy shoes that are comfortable, and stay on your feet. High heels can be wobbly and hazardous.
Gloves should always be worn while dancing, regardless of era. A source for period-correct leather gloves here. A source for more economical ladies cotton gloves is here. Or visit a local bridal shop.
Need help on creating a historical outfit? There are many Facebook groups to help sewers of all eras. Check some of them out for advice and ideas!
Historic Gentleman's Clothing
Gentlemen may choose to wear either an historic military or civilian formal outfit. We ask that there be no hats, sabers, or other weapons worn during the supper and dancing. This was not only considered impolite, but weapons can also be a hazard to the ladies' dresses! We will have a hat table for those who wish to arrive and be photographed with these accessories.
White or ecru wrist-length gloves should always be worn while dancing. A source for period-correct leather gloves is here. A source for more economical men's cotton gloves is here.
Modern Ladies' Clothing
There are many modest modern formal dresses that would look lovely at our ball! Ladies, be sure to choose a dress that does not drag the floor. You don't want to be tripping on your hem all evening and you don't want to fall!
Footwear should be dressy shoes that are comfortable, and stay on your feet. High heels can be wobbly and hazardous.
White or ecru wrist-length gloves should always be worn while dancing. A source for period-correct leather gloves here. A source for more economical ladies cotton gloves is here. Or visit a local bridal shop.
Modern Gentleman's Clothing
Gentlemen may choose to wear either modern military or modern civilian formal attire. Civilian attire should be a nice suit or tuxedo. We will have a hat table for storing hats of those who wish to wear a hat with their ensemble.
White or ecru wrist-length gloves should always be worn while dancing. A source for period-correct leather gloves is here. A source for more economical men's cotton gloves is here.
Where to Get Historical Attire
For fully authentic attire, you may need to plan far in advance in order to work with a seamstress’ schedule or have time to make it yourself. Most historical attire for ladies will require a full set of proper under-pinnings as well as the dress itself. Gentlemen’s suits often take a lot of work as well.
However, you still have time to order ready-made outfits online or rent them from a costume shop. These will not be fully authentic, but they can still be very pretty or handsome! If you need help selecting an outfit or have questions about attire, please email us at info@oldesouthball.com.
Please let us know if you have any questions! We look forward to seeing you all there!
Your Ball Ticket Includes:
* A sumptious formal supper and homemade dessert
* The acclaimed Timeless Dance dance directors
* Our wonderful live band, The Blue Ridge Rounders
* A free dance practice at the hotel
* Free formal photography by our Olde South Ball Photography Studio
* And some fun shopping at our Olde South Bazaar and Silent Auction!
We look forward to seeing all of you there!
Sincerely,
The Sheens
