Ball Gowns are perhaps the most extravagant of dress forms for a female to wear. The actual design of a ball gown has not changed much over the years and a traditional gown will have the same elements today as it had in years past. This style gown is usually worn for a special occasion or ‘black-tie’ events which usually is comprised of the most formal of occasions.
Elements common to a proper ball gown are:
_ A fuller skirt design that reaches to the floor, or at its shortest length to the ankles.
_ Extravagant fabrics and lush materials are used to comprise the basic body of the gown,
_ Light and airy trims accent the gown from embroideries to soft braidings, to gems such as pearls, diamonds, or lustrous crystals.
_ Most ball gowns are designed with a plunging neckline, and
_ Are shoulder-less in design. Be it an off-the-shoulder look or a completely strapless look, the shoulders are always revealed while wearing a true ball gown.
_ A wrap is added for comfort against the elements as opposed to a coat; this also protects the detailing of the gown from crushing under the weight of a traditional overcoat.
Traditional ball gowns are usually accented with such things as sparkling jewelry, long gloves, slippers upon the feet, all of which add to the delicacy and design of the overall appearance being created by the look of wearing a ball gown.
Newer designer gowns that have a more body-hugging skirt or plunging lines along the back or the sides or those that have added sweeps or trains behind them are not considered to be true ball gowns in the means and purpose behind the wearing of a ball gown.
These newer looks are often popular and misplaced in the world of ball gowns by the younger generation who seeks a more updated, modern flair to their formal look. However, a true ball gown is a true ball gown as opposed to a formal dress designed for a prom or for a bridesmaid to wear.
If you are seeking to find a ball gown for a true ‘black tie affair, the elements above are critical to the choosing of the gown you will wear. The elegance of the sweeping, flowing appearance created by a true ball gown cannot be replaced by modern design and detailing.
It is the old-fashioned elegance that gives a ball gown its place in the world of formal entertaining and celebrations. While accessories may vary amongst all of the ball gowns that appear at any given formal event, the basic design and structure of the gowns themselves will all share the traditional specifications mentioned above if one truly seeks to properly present themselves in a true ball gown.