Party in the style of a Masquerade Ball: script, outfits, decoration and competitions. Vintage women's things. Everything for the ball What did you wear to the balls?

Bal When the first stage - the squeals of delight - subsides, the next stage sets in - panic: “What should I wear?!” You're heading in the right direction, dear: a flawless ball gown is a woman's armor, a literal couture Kevlar vest. When you are confident that you are dressed impeccably, you feel bulletproof from all life's adversities.

Ballroom fashion 1940-60s; “Don’t say yes and no, don’t wear black and white” - this legendary children’s rhyme answers the main questions about the ballroom dress code. White is the color of young debutantes, and if you are not one of them, it is better to choose an outfit of a different color. Black, despite all fashion trends, is a mourning color for a women's ball gown. You still have a choice from the rest of the rainbow spectrum, but for now I’ll tell you about the canonical style of the ball dress.

Jean Harlow Immediately cross off trousers and even the most elegant ones from the list pantsuits. To the ball you can wear only a floor-length dress or a set of something elegant on top and a floor-length skirt.

For such cases it is worth getting evening option classical women's suit - fitted jacket combined with a long straight skirt. It may look a little boring, but if you don’t plan to dance the mazurka all evening, and your figure is far from model standards, then such an outfit will make your look appropriate.

Princess Grace of Monaco The main thing in such a costume is to choose the right material. I recommend dense, well-kept comb and brocade in rich noble shades - burgundy, emerald green, golden bronze, sapphire blue. Best decor This outfit is accompanied by first-class fur, for example, sable cuffs and collar. A mink stole will also work.

Jacqueline Kennedy and designer Oleg Cassini If your build and age allow you to choose something lighter and airier, be careful with full skirts and a ruffled neckline, choose a dress of the simplest style and a minimum of cutouts in the front. Bare shoulders or back - this is the choice of adults and confident women! Also, remember: at any formal event, the more conservatively you dress, the better you look. This is a commandment that has been tested for centuries.

King Farukh of Egypt and Queen Farida with their family at the palace ball. Well, as for the foolish girls who received an invitation to the ball, they have every right to go all out and realize their childhood fantasies about To the beautiful princess- numerous petticoats, corsets, frills and white elbow-length gloves.

Sophia Loren; Norma Shearer dressed as Marie Antoinette But that's all pleasant words, and now I come to the harsh reality. The ability to wear a ball gown is an art. To walk, dance, sit beautifully, not to mention walk down the stairs in long skirt, without lifting it up to the ears - you need experience. If you think that I am too pessimistic about life, then take a walk to any registry office on Saturday, and you will burst out laughing!.. In other words, when dressing up for the ball, soberly assess your capabilities. To begin with, at least shorten your skirt - to the ankles - this will allow you not to step on the hem every second, and in the saddest prospect - to trip over it and collapse in front of the amazed ballroom audience.

Princess Grace of Monaco at the masquerade ball But even the dress is a minor matter. Of course, it’s good if you have a couture or vintage ball gown hanging in your closet, but, as a last resort, visiting a large shopping mall, a long evening dress can be bought quite quickly. But what exactly causes a lot of trouble and at the same time creates a full-fledged ballroom look is accessories. Shoes, handbag, fur stole or boa and, of course, jewelry.

I think you will somehow figure out for yourself that it is not appropriate to come to the ball with an office bag, and fashionable shoes with ten-centimeter stiletto heels will not allow you to dance until the morning. I’ll tell you a little about jewelry, which forms an important part of the ballroom dress code.

Mona Williams, Ben Ali Haggin and Cecil Beaton at the ball; Heiress Doris Duke with escort Gold and diamonds will tell everything about you even more clearly than expensive clothes. A couple of small elegant decorations that only hint at their presence have never harmed anyone. If your appearance and means allow you to wear precious stones, then don’t waste your time on trifles: buy the most worthy ones - without defects, with a first-class cut and in an elegant frame.

What should you do if you received an invitation not to a classical ball, but to a masquerade ball? Correct answer: “Find out the dress code and who is invited.”

Masquerade at the New York Cotton Club Masquerade can be themed - this is when guests have to dress up in uniform style, for example, as the heroes of a film or characters of a certain historical period. A classic masquerade - when each guest chooses a historical, cinematic or mythical outfit according to his own taste. In any case, there is only one way for you - to the theater costume store.

Princess Grace of Monaco at a masquerade ball But before you figure out how much the image of Marie Antoinette will cost you, get a list of guests to this masquerade ball. If most guests are widely known for not bothering with choosing a costume, at best they just put on masks, then you shouldn’t fuss, so as not to look like a dressed-up black sheep in their company. A bright evening dress and a shiny half mask are more than enough.

Sophia Loren; Norma Shearer dressed as Marie Antoinette

December 3, 2015

What exactly do you associate with a masquerade ball? With something mysterious and romantic or mysterious and ancient?

Unsolved mysteries of masks and silhouettes in the twilight, stunning images and songs that penetrate straight to the heart - all this is a masquerade ball for adults! Only here can every guest feel like an aristocrat of the Middle Ages, feel the full depth of colorful colors and costumes in the MardiGras style, an exquisite carnival in Venice, a noble ball in the palace of Louis XIV or a Victorian operetta.

All these ideas can be brought to life at a birthday party, corporate event, High school prom, New Year, Halloween, wedding or just a meeting of good old friends. A masquerade ball is a holiday where old traditions and modernity harmoniously combine.

The essence of a masquerade ball

Masquerades originate from ancient Greece, where noisy holidays were held with dressing up and processions in masks accompanied by music, singing and fiery dancing in honor of the god Dionysus. In medieval Europe, masquerades became very popular in aristocratic circles starting from the 14th century. By changing into a different costume or putting on a mask, a person went beyond the norm and was transported into a world of prohibitions, harmony, and otherworldly power. Feeling like someone else, at least for one evening, people took a break from the daily hustle and bustle and were distracted from the harsh reality of the world. Soon the mask began to symbolize equality between different segments of the population; it did not divide people by their religion or status.

The masquerade was an ideal event for weaving intrigues, gossip, unbridled fun, and, of course, forbidden love. Everyone who was wearing a mask could pretend to be a different person for the evening, show a different side of themselves, which had a positive effect on the fight against their own complexes. The true “I” of each person was lost at the ball, in the twilight of the masquerade a new personality was born, with its own mystical story...

What kind of story you write depends on how the party is organized correctly.

Defining the topic

A masquerade ball can have different themes, and depends on the preferences and imagination of the organizers, as well as the general vision of the holiday. Let's consider the most striking topics for the event:

• MardiGras is a holiday for lovers of rich colors, unusual images and unbridled fun.
• The Phantom of the Opera is a Victorian party set to classical music.
• An aristocratic party in the spirit of 18th-century France - a celebration of luxury, pompous outfits, expensive jewelry and gourmet food.
• Old Hollywood is an event dedicated to glamor and high life, all guests of the event coquettishly hide their faces behind exquisite masks.
• Movie-cartoon masquerade is a celebration of the heroes of your favorite cartoons and movies, suitable for both children's and adult parties.

Important factors when determining the theme of the party are the allocated budget and the location of the holiday. Some masquerade balls are relatively budget-friendly, such as the Old Hollywood themed party, while MardiGras requires you to shell out quite a bit for the ballroom and costumes.

Invitations to a masquerade ball

After determining the theme of the masquerade, you need to organize invitations for guests. The main symbol of such celebrations is a mask, so it is not surprising that invitations are most often made in its style. Front side can be decorated like a Venetian boudoir, that is, covered with elegant fabric, painted with gold paints and sparkles.

You can do more simple options, for example, cut out a mask from cardboard, paint it with glitter glue, paints, markers or confetti.

The text of the invitation may be different, but it is important to indicate the date, location of the event, theme, and dress code. Each guest can come up with a name for themselves in accordance with the theme of the holiday. For example, if the party is in the style of the French aristocracy of the 18th century, then the guests can become Josephines, Constances, Jacques, Louis, etc. This will be interesting and at the same time piquant.

Masquerade outfits

Attire is very important for a theme party, and it is bad if some guests ignore the line warning about the theme of the evening. To avoid embarrassment, you need to introduce several rules:

• Invitations are given to guests of the event at least 2 weeks before the masquerade.
• IN mandatory The dress code is discussed with each guest.
• You need to have a few extra masks for those who still do not properly prepare for the holiday.

A costume for a masquerade ball should be thought out to the smallest detail and extremely luxurious, with notes of sexuality and humor. He must show all the mystery of the image.

There are many places in cities where costumes, wigs and necessary accessories are rented; you just need to provide the phone number to the guests. The suit can also be made to order or by hand if you have the skills of a seamstress.

For the holiday, girls can dress up as a queen, lady, movie diva of the 20s, or Princess Elsa from the cartoon “Frozen.” For men, suits in the style of a count, baron, Zorro, or even the image of Marlon Brando are perfect - a black tailcoat with a bow tie will always be in place.

Party masks

It is worth mentioning separately masquerade mask, as a symbol of this holiday. Even an ordinary tailcoat or small black dress together with an elegant mask will look harmonious at the ball. The ideal plaster mask can be easily prepared at home. You will need some equipment and the skills of a decorative artist. For preparation you need:

• 20 strips of medical plaster based on gauze, measuring 2.5 cm by 4 cm.
• Cream.

The face is smeared with cream, and plaster strips soaked in water are applied to it. After drying on the face, the impression is taken and given the desired shape using a sharp knife. Then everything depends solely on will and imagination. The mask can be painted, decorated in different styles, decorate different materials, stones, threads, sequins, etc.

It is much easier to make a fabric goggle mask at home. Pearls, guipure, sequins are a small part of what can bring notes of mystery and perfection to the look of a woman in a mask.

The most affordable accessory for a party will be a blindfold mask. Its presence will make a woman’s look full of charisma, expression and mystery.

Room decoration

The atmosphere at a holiday of this type simply must be mysterious and unusual for all guests, otherwise the whole meaning will be lost.

If you are planning a large party, you can order the services of special agencies for decoration banquet halls. If the masquerade will take place in an apartment or private house, then the organizers themselves should take care of decorating the rooms.

The main decorative elements for a festive room will be beads, feathers, candles, and mirrors. Well, masks, they should be everywhere. On the walls you can hang thematic posters depicting Venice, French balls of the 18th century, paintings by famous artists of that time, tapestries and candelabra.

An interesting and practical idea would be to decorate a room in one color scheme. This will significantly reduce the problems of choosing matching colors and save money.

The walls of the room can be draped with burgundy, green and blue fabrics. Garlands will perfectly complement the decor of the room; these can be pendants made of flowers and butterflies.

If the party is planned in a fun and modern movie-cartoon style, then you can decorate the walls with posters of your favorite cartoon and movie characters, install several funny tantamares (decorations with holes for faces for photography), and scatter confetti and streamers around the rooms. Gold, silver, yellow, red, blue air balloons and electric garlands are also used as decorations for masquerade balls.

Musical arrangement

If the party is organized in the style of a masquerade ball from the Middle Ages, then the best music will be classics: Bach, Beethoven, Mozart and other masterpieces. Eternal music, like no other, will fill the evening with a pleasant atmosphere, encourage the guests' imagination, and invite them to talk about important topics or just have a good time with friends.

If the party is organized in a movie-cartoon style, then the musical accompaniment can be modern hits, songs that remind friends of a fun time in their youth, or any other fun music.

Entertainment at the ball

Undoubtedly, the main type of entertainment at the ball is dancing: classical, Latin or modern.

At the masquerade ball of the times of Louis XIV, dance cards were in circulation; each lady was awarded a certain gentleman with whom she was obliged to dance the entire evening. A similar practice can be offered to single guests at your masquerade. The ladies themselves will draw a card with the gentleman's name, and maybe by the end of the evening several more strong couples will be organized among your friends.

On this themed holiday You can do the following entertainment.

"Theater"

The guests are divided into two groups. One is interesting and funny scenario, and the other person embodies it on an improvised stage under the clear guidance of the “director” from the first group. The team's script could be a parody of everyone's favorite movie, theatrical performance, or fairy tale.

"Competition for the best image"

A traditional competition at almost all events. It is important that participants carefully prepare for it and think through their image to the smallest detail. The participant who receives the most applause for their costume wins.

"Queen of the Masquerade Ball"

Girls are simply in awe of various beauty contests. The most beautiful, mysterious, sophisticated, sexy and at the same time interesting lady becomes the queen of the masquerade ball. The winner will wear the crown all evening and be surrounded by all sorts of honors.

"Auction"

Holding an auction is an aristocratic occupation. An unusual mask can be used as lots self made, a bottle of rare wine, a shoe from the queen of the evening, etc. An important feature of this game is the host’s sense of humor, who is able to conduct an auction in a positive and cheerful atmosphere.

At the very beginning, a minimum bid per lot is set; it can be a coin of a designated denomination or a small bill.

"Themed photo shoot"

Who wouldn’t want to get a photo as a souvenir, and in such a chic look? Therefore, an interesting and positive photo session of holiday guests will give everyone present a great mood.

"Dress-Up Competition"

In the company of your best friends, you can be a little frivolous and, for example, dress up in a costume of the opposite sex. Ladies will become gentlemen and vice versa. After a fun dressing up and applying make-up on the newly minted “young ladies”, you can hold a competition where participants will compete for the title “Mrs Gentleman” and “Mr Lady”.

"Roomy petticoat"

Such a competition is only suitable for a party in the style of Europe of the 18th century, since it requires ladies in dresses with full skirts. The essence of the competition: two girls in dresses and a team of guys choose, the more gentlemen each can fit under their skirt, the team wins. hide under fluffy dress You need it completely, no peeking arms or legs. Fun is guaranteed for all guests of the holiday.

Another version of this competition: one of the girls has a gentleman hiding under her skirt. Guests must guess which of them is hiding the lucky one.

Gifts and prizes

Beautiful masks, hair accessories, pendants with keys, butterflies under an elegant tailcoat, or comic prizes can be used as gifts and prizes at a masquerade ball. For example, a bandage on a leg, a mustache on a stick, a mask with a nose or a funny shape.

Treats and table setting

The idea of ​​a classic masquerade ball does not provide for a standard feast. Guests of the party are treated to a buffet. Ideally, hire waiters, but if this is not possible, then you can simply organize the delivery of snacks and drinks yourself.

The evening's treats may include beef medallions, mussel or shrimp salad, rosemary chicken, French bread, sesame buns, etc. Cognac, red or white dry wines, and champagne are perfect drinks.

Dessert can consist of “mask” cookies, strawberries, grapes, cakes decorated with lace chocolate patterns, and, of course, a cake decorated according to the theme of the holiday.
The masquerade ball is a fun and original event, the relevance of which has not been lost for centuries. Each guest of the evening can feel like an aristocrat of the 19th century, an actor from the era of the 20s, or partners Bonnie and Clyde, by trying on the appropriate image. The main thing is that it is fun, interesting and unusual.

A masquerade is a place where time periods intersect, the past becomes the present so that a beautiful and bright future can take place.

Every girl dreams of feeling like a queen at least once in her life. Today, during the active theme parties and balls, creating a cherished image for yourself is not so difficult. In addition, this type of celebration has become fashionable. Therefore, turning from Cinderella into a princess is often the hidden desire of many fashionistas. However, stay stylish and fit fashion trends also important. That's why every girl should know what dress to wear to the ball.

A classic and win-win solution would be to wear a fluffy dress to the ball. After all, if we take as an example the images of the court ladies who regularly attended balls, this is exactly the outfit that appears. However, previously, a mandatory element of such a dress was floor length, many petticoats and tulle or satin ones. Today, stylists allow short evening dresses for balls. According to professionals, the main thing in this look is bright sparkling accessories and jewelry.

To the girls who stick modern views on fashionable image, and stylists advise opponents of conservatism to choose for the ball Nice dress in accordance with the latest fashion trends. The most popular today are dresses with frills, models with long trains, as well as asymmetrical styles with deep slits up to the thigh. Stylists say that in such dresses you can achieve a royal look.

Masquerade ball dresses

In addition, masquerade-style celebrations have become very popular today. Main feature Dresses for a masquerade ball are considered mysterious and enigmatic. For such an occasion, stylists suggest choosing an extraordinary designer outfit that will not only make you stand out from the crowd and highlight your sense of style, but will also help you create the most unusual and memorable image. In such a dress, you will undoubtedly attract attention, and someone will definitely want to rip off your mask.

Information taken from open Internet sources.
The page was created for ballroom reconstructions, themed events, etc.

Ball translated from German means ball. In the old days, there was a custom in Germany: on Easter, rural girls sang around the houses of their friends who had gotten married over the past year.

Each of them was given a ball stuffed with wool or fluff. In response, the young lady undertook to arrange refreshments and dances for the village youth.

About balls in Russia:

They began to be held in St. Petersburg and Moscow in 1717. The assemblies served as a means of entertainment and a place “for reasoning and friendly conversations.”

The ball is a real find
For young dandies and ladies;
The beauty is waiting for him with delight,
It is a holiday for gloomy fathers.
So that my daughter dresses like a doll,
An experienced mother is busy,
And so that she doesn’t stay too long,
Taking her to dance. (F.Kony)

The last ball in Russia was a costume ball on February 13th. This was the last ball of Imperial Russia. Several costumes worn by the participants in these celebrations have been preserved in the collections of the State Hermitage. Costume ball 1903 in the Winter Palace

A ball is a solemn event, which, like a rite, has its own ceremony and rules of conduct, which makes it so majestic and luxurious.
To maintain sophistication and deliciousness

People came to the ball dressed smartly.

Gentlemen wear a tailcoat, tuxedo or suit (depending on the decade), a white shirt and always white gloves.

Moreover, in the manuals, a lady has the right to refuse a gentleman without gloves, and it is better for a gentleman to come to the ball wearing black gloves than without gloves at all. A boutonniere was attached to the lapel of the tailcoat. The military came in uniform.

The suits of the gentlemen depended little on fashion and were recommended to be sewn in classical forms so that the robes would last longer. Gentlemen wore boots to the ball, and only military men could afford boots, but without spurs.

Main decorations men's suit in the first half of the 19th century, cufflinks and buttons made of gold, silver or precious stones on formal ballroom costumes, gold buckles on culottes. I. S. Turgenev, who is known to have always dressed with great taste, had a signature blue tailcoat with gold buttons in the shape of lion heads. I. I. Panaev saw him in such a suit in 1843 and 1844.

In the 1830s, an untied tie was invented for an evening tailcoat, fastened with precious pins, which were used to pin a shirt at the beginning of the century. Watch worn either on a short chain with charms hanging from a vest pocket, or on a long chain that was worn over the head.

Chains were sometimes replaced with beaded and silk laces, laces woven from hair, black or colored ribbons. Since the forties, diversity in men's clothing It is considered a sign of bad taste, and all the colors are given to ladies' dresses.

Some originals of 19th century ball gowns:

Ladies and girls dressed in dresses according to the latest fashion, each of which was designed for 1-2 balls.

Ladies could choose any color for the dress (if it was not specifically specified - for example, on January 24, 1888, an emerald ball was held in St. Petersburg, at which everyone present was dressed in the appropriate color), dresses for girls were sewn white or pastel colors - blue, pink, ivory.

Gloves that matched the dress were matched to the dress or were white (wearing rings over gloves was considered tasteless).

Ladies could decorate themselves with a headdress - for example, a beret.

The ladies' jewelry could be anything - the main thing is that it is chosen with taste. Girls should appear at balls with a minimum amount of jewelry - a pendant around the neck, a modest bracelet.

ball dresses mid 19th century:

With such a cut of the dress, neither a lady nor a girl could appear in society without jewelry around the neck - a chain with a pendant, a necklace - something was required to be worn. Felix Yusupov in his memoirs describes the following incident: his parents, Count Sumarokov-Elston and Princess Yusupova, went to a performance at the Mariinsky Theater.

During the intermission, a lady-in-waiting of Empress Maria Feodorovna came into their box and asked the princess to remove the family diamond that was hanging on Zinaida Yusupova’s neck, since the empress had not adorned herself with a diamond of that size that day.

The princess immediately did this, but since she had no other jewelry for her neck, married couple was forced to leave the theater.

General rules of conduct at the ball

By accepting the invitation to come to the ball, both the young man and the girl thereby undertake the obligation to dance. If there is a shortage of ladies or gentlemen at the ball, everyone who comes to the ball is obliged to make up for this deficiency.

Refusing to participate in dancing, as well as showing dissatisfaction or letting your partner know that you are dancing with him only out of necessity, is considered a sign of bad taste.
Conversely, it is considered a sign of good upbringing at a ball to dance with pleasure and without coercion, regardless of the partner and his talents.

At a ball, more than at any other social event, a cheerful and amiable expression is appropriate. Showing at the ball that you are out of sorts or dissatisfied with something is inappropriate and impolite towards those having fun.

If you are late, the first thing you need to do is greet the hosts of the ball. Starting conversations with acquaintances before paying tribute to the owners is considered indecent.
At the same time, not greeting acquaintances (at least with a nod of the head) is also unacceptable. At balls there is a special culture of inviting people to dance.

An invitation to dance in advance is allowed, both before the ball itself and at the ball. At the same time, it is considered discourteous if a lady arrives at the ball having promised in advance more than the first three dances.

In the ballroom, the ball manager monitors order and dancing. His instructions must be followed unquestioningly; disputes and scandals with the master of the ball are equated to disrespect towards the hosts.

In addition to monitoring the progress of the dance part of the ball, the manager is supposed to be responsible for order on the floor and in the dance hall.
During the ball, gentlemen must monitor the comfort and convenience of the ladies: bring drinks, offer help. The gentleman must ensure that his lady does not get bored.

Conversations at a ball are certainly permissible. At the same time, it is not recommended to touch upon complex and serious topics, or to gather a large company around you. Buffoonery is not appropriate at balls.
Even gentlemen who have an overly cheerful disposition are advised to behave with dignity at the ball.

Quarrels and disagreements between gentlemen are extremely unwelcome during the ball, but if disagreements arise, it is recommended to resolve them outside the dance hall. Ladies are the main decoration of any ball.

Therefore, it is appropriate for them to behave affably and nicely. Loud laughter, slander, and bad humor can cause disapproval from polite society.

The behavior of ladies at the ball should be modest; an expression of extreme sympathy for any gentleman can give rise to condemnation.

In general, the ball should be dominated by a combination of modesty, goodwill and grace. You should pay attention to dance preparation in advance.
But even if you have no inclination to dance, affectation, excessive coquetry and rudeness at the ball will cause condemnation, ridicule and pity.

/ East: Forum " Three Musketeers: Secrets of the French Court"/

Ball in Russia in the 19th century —

He (or she) was condemned for “disregarding society”, they stopped inviting him, men had problems with career growth...

Of course, in the absence of television and the Internet, balls were the most important entertainment, a vanity fair, and, in addition, virtually the only place where ladies and gentlemen could communicate freely.

For the sake of the ball, they sewed the most fashionable outfits, invited the most famous musicians, stayed awake at night and slept during the day.

The ability to dance well and behave correctly in society could contribute to a career young man: if he was noticed at a ball, and besides, a high-ranking official or his wife liked him, he could expect advancement through the ranks.

The writer and historian V. Mikhnevich wrote about balls in Russia in the middle of the 19th century:
“Having become a kind of cult, ballroom dancing becomes, as it were, a mandatory duty for every member of society entering the world.
It was unthinkable for a socialite, and especially for a lady from Alexander’s time, not to dance... The ability to dance was a valuable asset and constituted success not only on the floor, but sometimes also in the field of an official career.”

Women at balls performed exactly the same social duties, refusal of which could lead to various troubles, up to and including “excommunication from the world.”
The ball, of course, was entertainment, but by no means relaxation.

A society lady wrote to her friend:
“Balls are definitely a burden for me... It’s nice to dance once every two weeks, but to twirl around so often is unbearable.”

In addition, dance evenings were often simply dangerous to the health and sometimes even the lives of the participants.
Even pregnant women were not exempt from participating in dances.

It is known that Natalya Nikolaevna Pushkina lost her child after one of the Maslenitsa balls - upon arriving home she had a miscarriage.

In addition, in addition to physical stress, the dancers experienced even greater emotional stress. At the ball, it was necessary to look impeccable, control every movement and word, and at the same time appear natural, friendly and cheerful.

Ballroom science required many years of training, so children began to be taught dance and social etiquette from an early age.

......................................................................................

To reconstruct the balls of that time, it is interesting to recreate the very behavior at the balls.

19th century ballroom etiquette

Ball –

In Russia, balls appeared in the 18th century, during the reign of Peter I, but became widespread in the 19th century.
Balls were given all year round, but the season began with late autumn- the time of the greatest concentration of representatives of high society in the urban environment - and lasted throughout winter period, except during periods when one should fast.

Often in one evening it was necessary to attend two or three balls, which required considerable strength from the dancers, besides, many balls ended in the morning, and the next day it was necessary to pay visits and prepare for the upcoming amusements.

Sometimes such a stressful life had a detrimental effect on the health of the ladies - a cold caught at balls sometimes led to death.

Ballroom etiquette includes not only ballroom costumes, culture of behavior at the ball, proper dance performance, but also the design of ballrooms (halls, smoking room, buffet, games room).

Balls and masquerade balls were divided according to class, professional, age categories, were timed to coincide with special celebrations, and were court, public, private, merchant, wedding, children's...

Balls of the Assembly of the Nobility, balls of artists and balls held by foreign embassies were popular at one time.
The etiquette presented here applies mainly to the capital of the Russian Empire and to balls held for high society: the features of the ballroom appearance, secular rules of behavior at the ball and the main points of the dance program are considered.

Invitations to the ball were sent out at least seven to ten days before the start - mainly so that the ladies had the opportunity to prepare the appropriate outfit: it was necessary to appear at the ball in a new and fashionable dress.

For thematic balls (for example, monochrome - i.e. a certain color, costume, flower ball, etc.) it was indicated what type of outfit should be prepared.

Having received the invitation, they responded in writing within two days about their consent to take part in the upcoming ball, or expressed regret about the inability to attend the event - but a good reason was required for refusal.
People did not appear at the ball during a period of deep mourning, but they were allowed to attend while mourning for a cousin, during half-mourning after an uncle, and at the end of a deeper mourning.

Ballroom appearance was strictly regulated. The ladies' dresses were always open, complemented by a bud of fresh or artificial flowers.

(see below on the Accessories page - my note.)

Married ladies had a wider choice in colors, styles of dresses and wearing jewelry.

Ballroom shoes were soft shoes, often without heels. The use of cosmetics was kept to a minimum; it was not forbidden to use only powder, and then in moderation.

Mid-19th century dresses:

Mid-19th century hairstyles:

For gentlemen there were their own canons of ballroom costume: a tailcoat pair, white vest, white (1830s) or black (second half of the 19th century) tie. There were tailcoats different colors, only towards the end of the 30s did the fashion for black become established. During the reign of Nicholas I, civil servants wore the uniform appropriate to their position at court balls.

The military appeared in ceremonial uniforms corresponding to their regiments, and everyone wore ballroom shoes; only the lancers were allowed to wear boots. Having spurs was frowned upon, but some broke this rule for the sake of showing off.

The most important attribute was the presence of immaculately clean and snow-white gloves. For ladies, they were often above the elbow, silk or kid. Gentlemen in civilian clothes wore kid gloves, and military men wore suede gloves.
The gloves were never removed, even if they burst - in this case it was recommended to have a spare pair with you.

An important component of a lady's ballroom costume was a fan ( see accessories below - my note.), which served not only to create a fresh breath, but also as a language of communication, now almost lost.

Arriving guests had to show their respect, in the form of a greeting, first of all to the hosts.

A married lady came to the ball with her husband; in his absence, she was allowed to appear with her friend and this friend’s husband.

Girls at the ball:

A girl could come to the ball accompanied by her father, who introduced her to his acquaintances, and he was introduced to gentlemen who wanted to dance with his daughter. As a rule, the owner or mistress of the house asked the gentlemen they knew to invite ladies to dance, who were forced, most often due to external unattractiveness, to sit on the sidelines.

In any case, one was not supposed to outwardly show mental suffering, disappointment or a bad mood - at the ball one should smile pleasantly and naturally carry on small talk.

ball gowns of the late 19th century:

When a lady went to a ball, she took with her a ball book - a carne or an agenda - where, opposite the list of dances, she wrote down the names of the gentlemen who wanted to dance this or that dance with her. Sometimes the reverse side of the fan could be used instead of the agenda.

Ballroom books were attached to the belt of the dress and served as a memory aid - making a promise to two gentlemen for one dance was not only considered bad manners, but could also lead to a duel between the applicants, therefore, if found in a situation of such indiscretion, the lady was recommended to skip the dance.

If an invitation to dance was received simultaneously from two gentlemen, the lady could make a choice in favor of one of them. It was considered excessive coquetry to show off your completed agenda, especially to those ladies who were rarely invited.

Before the ball or during its continuation, the gentleman could engage the lady to dance in advance, and if at the beginning of the 19th century the gentleman, having learned that the next two or three dances had already been promised to others, left with nothing, then at the end of the 19th century the gentleman asked which of them free dancing he can claim. The popular ladies had an agenda written out in the first minutes of the ball.

In the rules of social decency of the 1880s, there is an indication that a lady should not give consent to more than three quadrilles, and it is immediately said that the gentleman, when inviting, continued to list all the quadrilles available in the program until the lady herself said which one she had free.

According to the rules, the gentleman began his invitations to dance with the mistress of the house, then all her relatives came, and only then came the turn to dance with the ladies he knew.

early 19th century:

At the beginning of the 19th century, the ball opened with a polonaise, where the first couple was the host with the most honorable guest, and the second couple was the hostess with the most honorable guest. At the end of the century, the ball began with a waltz, but court, children's and merchant balls opened with a majestic polonaise.

In the 30s of the 19th century, a lady could dance with any gentleman - it was believed that the fact of his presence at the ball was already a guarantee of trustworthiness and the lady did not need to fear for her reputation. In the second half of the 19th century, a gentleman who wanted to dance with a lady he did not know first introduced himself to her through mutual friends.

Ball gowns of the early 19th century:

Throughout the 19th century, the number of dances that a gentleman could dance with one lady during the ball changed - for representatives of the 1830s this number was one, and already in the 1880s two or three dances were allowed, not following each other in a row. Only the bride and groom could dance more than three dances.

If the gentleman insisted on more dancing than required, the lady refused, not wanting to compromise herself. At a private ball, the owner of the house and his sons were required to dance at least once with all the invited ladies.

We were invited to the square dance in advance.

The duties of the gentleman were to enlist a counterpart before the start of the dance, and if his role was a relative of the lady, then only with her consent.

Wanting to invite a lady to dance, the gentleman approached her, bowed and uttered a polite phrase like: “Let me have the honor of inviting you to a polka (mazurka, waltz, etc.)” or “Can I hope that you will honor me dance a waltz with you (gallop, square dance, etc.).” The lady, accepting the invitation, responded with a curtsy.

The gentleman gave the lady his right hand, the lady gave the gentleman her left hand, and the couple went to participate in the dance.

It was possible not to accept an invitation to dance due to fatigue or if the dance was promised to someone else. To refuse, citing fatigue, and then immediately agree to dance with someone else, was considered extreme bad manners.

If the emperor was present at the ball, then his invitation was always accepted, regardless of whether the lady gave consent to dance to someone else.

Having received a refusal from one lady, the representative of the 1880s extended an invitation to her neighbor, while in the 1830s this action was considered offensive to the lady.
The bows of gentlemen changed little throughout the 19th century, but the curtsies of ladies underwent noticeable changes.

While dancing

the gentleman entertained the lady with light small talk, but the lady answered modestly and did not dare look into the dancer’s eyes too often.

The gentleman's duties also included preventing collisions with other couples and preventing his lady from falling - if this happened, the gentleman would help the lady get up, accompany her to her place, apologize and ask if she needed any help.

Getting up to dance without knowing the figures, behaving familiarly with a lady (pulling too close to you during the dance, asking her for a fan, scarf or flowers), forgetting to find the invited lady before the start of the dance, stepping on the trains of dresses - all this did not characterize the dancer with the best side.

But the ability to dance deftly and beautifully, combined with good manners and knowledge of the world, could contribute to the career of young people.

At the end of the dance, the gentleman asked the lady where to take her: to the buffet or to the place where he took her from. Having exchanged mutual bows, the gentleman either left, or could remain next to the lady and continue the conversation for some time (concerning this convention, the instructions in the books are contradictory: at the beginning, middle and end of the 19th century, it was not recommended to hold the gentleman after the dance, while there are references , that in the 1830s and 1880s small talk was not forbidden, provided that the gentleman did not prevent other dancers from inviting the lady with whom he was conducting a dialogue).

19th century ball gown details:

In the 1880s, a couple was allowed to walk through the ballroom arm in arm, with the lady barely touching the gentleman's hand. The gentleman led to dinner the lady with whom he danced the last dance before dinner, and accompanied the same lady back to the ballroom after the meal.

In the first half of the 19th century, a lady could only approach the buffet accompanied by her guardian and a gentleman, or the gentleman would bring the lady from the buffet whatever she wanted. At the end of the 19th century, the rules were simplified and a lady could go to the buffet in the company of only one gentleman.

To dances such as the mazurka or cotillion, the gentleman usually invited a lady well known to him. Often a long dance served as an opportunity to confess one's feelings. The ball ended with a cotillion or Greek dance, but in the second half of the 19th century, the ball program was usually completed with a waltz.

Guests could leave whenever they wanted, without focusing on their departure - but over the next few days, the invitee paid the hosts a thank-you visit.
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19th century dances:

The question of how to dress for a ball has not sunk into oblivion at all. If you think the days of these chic rites are over, you're wrong. Those who think that balls are the exclusive prerogative of those in power or socialites who spend all their time in idleness are also deeply mistaken. Schoolgirls-graduates, office employees attending corporate events, and ordinary housewives trying to have a good time at costume masquerades think about what to wear to the ball.

So, first about etiquette. Time: 20.00-24.00 and later. Occasion: diplomatic events, charity evenings, new year holidays, a night at the opera.

The dress code at the ball is the most formal and at the same time fabulous choice, where the diamonds will not seem too large, the furs too provocative, and the dresses too lush. The main requirement: a ball gown, impeccable appearance and a radiant smile.

In dance rooms, the floor surface is smooth and slippery so that it is easy to move on it while dancing, and this should be taken into account when choosing shoes. Peculiarities evening dresses depend on the country: in the USA it is influenced by Hollywood, in Britain - by palace rituals.

In the worst case scenario, a woman who chooses the wrong dress for a ball is refused admission. It is worth noting that this does not happen at balls as often as at strictly guarded entrances to discos and nightclubs.

Do not attend events with a white tie dress code unless you have the appropriate attire.

Dresses, gloves, shoes, bags and decorations for the ball (with photos)

Dress. In the heyday of balls, the dress code was extremely complex, but in our time its main rule for such events is very simple: a long, low-cut ball gown. It is called the “grand ballroom toilet.”

Look at the photo: A ball dress is an outfit designed for dancing.

Its characteristic features are a special long wide skirt, which is comfortable to dance in, and an off-the-shoulder bodice reminiscent of a corset. The color of the dress can be anything, but is often determined by etiquette (girls are expected to wear light-colored dresses), as well as fashion or the theme of the ball. A ball gown creates an elegant, feminine, luxurious impression. The depth of the neckline depends on the status: modest necklines are recommended for girls, bolder necklines are recommended for married ladies.

Shoes. Satin shoes are recommended. Instead of silver stiletto sandals, it is better to wear flat ballet shoes - this way you will look more natural, more modern and, most importantly, you can really dance until the morning.

Bag. The handbag should be small enough that you can simply hold it in your hand.

Decorations. Jewelry is required to be luxurious, but compact so as not to lose it during the dance. Tiara and Jewelry in the hair. Do not wear earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces from the same set together. Jewelry is excluded. An evening high-style hairstyle emphasizes the beautiful curve of the neck. evening make-up required.

Gloves for the ball– these are long satin models to match the dress.

The history of the most famous balls

Balls and masquerades were introduced in Russia by Peter I, who issued a decree on the organization of assemblies in 1718. The fashion for balls flourished in 1812, the year of the victory over Napoleon. There were so many of them in one evening that the socialites couldn’t keep up with everything. Under Nicholas II, charity balls became a tradition, the proceeds from which went, for example, to benefit orphans.

In pre-revolutionary Russia, the ball season began in the fall, after the nobility returned to the city from their estates. Following the autumn ball, the second was the New Year's ball. In St. Petersburg, the New Year's ball was held in the Winter Palace, and in Moscow - in the house of the Governor General. The ball season lasted until Maslenitsa.

A ball is not just dancing to an orchestra, it is a ritual. The invitation was sent ten days in advance. The balls did not begin before ten in the evening, but ended in the morning. From the history of the most famous balls it is known that it was indecent for a woman to appear at a ball without her husband, just as it was indecent for a girl to appear without her mother. Men came to the ball in black tailcoats and white kid gloves. Traditional color The ladies' dresses were white, pink and blue were also allowed. Such beautiful social events as balls are still held in many countries, and each has its own main ball. In America - the Oscars. In England there is a tea ball. In Monaco - a touching ball of seven princesses. Viennese balls are the most magnificent and most famous in the world, especially the Vienna Opera ball, a ticket for which costs a thousand dollars.

Debutante Ball (Le bal des debutantes), Paris, October.

The richest heiresses on the planet from noble and famous families, “coming out into the world” for the first time, gather for the debutante ball at the Crillon Hotel. This is the most famous ball and the most beautiful social event of the year. A prerequisite is outfits from famous fashion designers. French and Italian haute couture houses provide debutantes with their breathtaking ballroom gowns, which perfectly highlight their youthful freshness and beauty. Starting your social career with such a ball is a huge success in the life of any girl.

New Year's Ball (Kaiserball), Vienna, December.

Throughout the winter, Vienna hosts themed balls: jewelers, firefighters, tourists and students dance. But there are two main balls: New Year's - in the former imperial residence, the Hofburg Palace, and Opera - respectively, in the Opera. Ballroom shoes required Long Dresses for ladies, tailcoats for gentlemen. And, in extreme cases, you will be taught to dance on the spot.

Grand Venetian Ball (Gran ballo della Serenissima), Venice, February.

During the Carnival, lavish costume balls with champagne and fireworks are held in various ancient palazzos. At the Grand Ball in one of the luxurious palaces, guests dance in masks and historical costumes.

Masquerade ball "Rudolfitia Redoute", Vienna, January.

For the most fun event of the season, ladies and gentlemen wear masks. This is the only ball in Vienna where real princes and princesses come to dance without fear of being recognized. Princes demonstrate good manners, princesses hide behind masks. Only here is there a chance to get to know them better - at other balls it is not customary to communicate with strangers.

White Tie & Tiara Ball Charity, Windsor, July.

Elton John is known to be a big entertainer. Every summer he hosts a costume ball and auction at his Windsor estate, and no invitation is more eagerly sought in London than these. A charity ball is a great occasion to come up with an enchanting outfit and have a lot of fun. Among Elton John's guests are the richest and most famous. All proceeds from the auction ball go to the fight against AIDS.

Fire & Ice Ball, Hollywood, December.

The Ice and Fire Ball is the main exhibition of the outfits of models and film stars, where stars donate millions to fight cancer. This event takes place on two continents: the European version is in London, the American version is in Hollywood. They dance little, mostly show off.

Vienna Ball at Gostiny Dvor, Moscow, June.

In order to dance in a tailcoat or ball gown, now you don’t have to fly to Vienna. Viennese balls, as well as debutante balls and early spring celebrations in the center of Moscow are no longer a fairy tale.

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