https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:45:22 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410271 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 20:14:42 +0000 Jenni NZ 2410271@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well, I am on holiday and so did go through all the pages! This one is my favourite. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410270 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 20:05:27 +0000 Jenni NZ 2410270@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>There are only a few options on that first page of your link with short or elbow sleeves which are not cap sleeves, but there are a few there. One with a V neck was a paler blue, like a lighter kind of sky blue, that could be lovely with your shoes. Some of the navies seem a bit too dark to be festive?<br /> I didn’t go through the other pages. A lot of choices but many not covered enough I agree, spaghetti straps etc. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410268 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 18:52:40 +0000 unfrumped 2410268@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don’t like cap sleeves either! It is so hard to find a refined true short sleeve. I love 3/4 sleeves also. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410254 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 15:28:19 +0000 anchie 2410254@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>unfrumped - yes, I am also looking for sleeves, but I don’t like those cap sleeves. I am even open to sleeveless if it has more coverage, definitely not spaghetti straps or anything requiring special undergarments. And nothing fussy and too revealing. And also no high neck, I think I would prefer v-neck. Will see what it narrows down to. There is 20% off promotion today so will try to order soon to get that. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410251 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 15:13:04 +0000 unfrumped 2410251@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, a long list of options!</p> <p>If choosing for myself, it’s easier because I only look at the ones with sleeves! </p> <p>Still, you must have some idea of what styles to exclude— either re: flattering, undergarment requirements, wardrobe malfunction risks, hot/ cold &amp; whether some require fussing with a wrap all night or trying to find a special topper etc. so perhaps can r/o some bodice styles, r/o some shades of blue.<br /> But I’d also try to order 3-4 top contenders right away to try with your shoes ( for length &amp; hemming needs) and to see as soon as possible if you’re on the right track. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410235 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 13:34:06 +0000 anchie 2410235@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Not sure if you can access this link, here are my possible options in blue in my size. Store is our equivalent of Nordstrom</p> <p><a href="https://www.peek-cloppenburg.at/de/damen/bekleidung/kleider/ballkleider/size-kg_40.ig_m/color-blau" rel="nofollow">https://www.peek-cloppenburg.a.....color-blau</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410231 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 12:30:43 +0000 kkards 2410231@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Beautiful shoes! &nbsp;I vote keep </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410230 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 11:22:11 +0000 Jenni NZ 2410230@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>They look lovely on your feet. Yay for comfort! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410229 Sat, 11 Apr 2026 10:34:36 +0000 anchie 2410229@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jenni - wow, you do look like a million dollars here. </p> <p>Thank you all for your guidance, and especially Angie that she found time to comment during her busy week. I feel little less overwhelmed now.</p> <p>I started browsing online and there is so much choice but I haven’t yet seen anything that spoke to me. Lot of very embellished over the top dresses, lot of dresses that seem to exposed - strapless, backless, with weird cutouts or just very body con. And then the other extreme- lot of mantronly dresses. Nothing yet that seems right. </p> <p> I was waiting for my shoes to arrive before I go to look in person. And they just arrived - to my surprise, they are extremely comfortable, and even toe cleavage is not too bad. And I think they can be worn to the graduation too, and even the office, not just one occasion shoes. Keepers? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410165 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:56:10 +0000 Jenni NZ 2410165@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Here are the old photos Anchie. Everyone said I should wear it again but I never got to and I weigh quite a lot less now so think it would need taking in. Maybe one day!&nbsp;<br /><a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/my-ball-dress--wiw-just-the-once">https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....t-the-once</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410142 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:05:54 +0000 Kyle 2410142@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Exciting! Your daughter is lovely.</p> <p> <div>I also love the idea or navy or some other shade of blue for you. </p> <p>This caught my idea recently and I think it would be beautiful on you, Anchie. And I love just about all of the gowns from a designer called Amsale.&nbsp;</p> <p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/8789946?color=410">https://www.nordstrom.com/s/8789946?color=410</a></p> <p> </div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410139 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:41:59 +0000 unfrumped 2410139@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>As shown in one of Angie’s picks, Kay Unger does lovely gowns. </p> <p>I tried one of the beaded bodice gowns last fall &amp; it was very heavy— as often noted in the tev. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410136 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:10:25 +0000 Star (Lise) 2410136@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Anchie no advice from me. I know that Deb balls here in Bulgaria are very big dress up occasions. A lot of different colours in the past photo you posted but I also noticed a lot of black on the women and men. Maybe more black and dark colours than light. I also was wondering if the colour recommendations you are getting here are based on your silver hair. Is it still blonde or have you returned to you natural silver? I know for me the colours that look best are vastly different when my hair is my natural silver or when I have coloured it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410135 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:01:01 +0000 Angie 2410135@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>WOW! Your daughter looks stunning and ethereal :)&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Anchie</b>, can't top the advice you've been given already!</p> <p>FWIW, &nbsp;love the idea of navy, fuchsia or an iridescent smoky grey for you. You'll probably need to have the dress altered so create time for that.&nbsp;</p> <p>Keep us in the loop!</p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410125 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:18:37 +0000 RobinF 2410125@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>How fun! I have never been to a ball like this! Maybe you could go to a few stores and do some try-ons to see what feels good to you. If they don't have exactly what you want then you could order online but it would help to get an idea in person first. From last year's picture it looks like there were a variety of colors and styles so it seems like you have some flexibility. The shoes you have coming would go well with almost any dress.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410124 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:13:21 +0000 unfrumped 2410124@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Your daughter looks so beautiful! What a special occasion. </p> <p>Most long gowns will need hemming to your shoe choice, because they’ll bd made longer to accommodate person heights &amp; higher heels. . If you are able to buy &amp; try a couple of returnable shoe options, great. Do you have a large department store that carries formal gowns? You could try there at least for some style direction ( say, this , not that, colors tgat work best) , and if nothing there suits, then order 2-3 options. You may need to order these multiple options because of timeframe.<br /> With long gowns, I think there is more opportunity for lower- heeled shoes ( dressy flats, ankle strap flats, 1-inch heel) because the gown covers most. Still a “ dressy” material like a sleek/ gleaming leather or metallic if possible.<br /> If you do find a heeled shoe that’s wearable, you could get lucky and heel height works with gown length already, but it’s important not to be tripping over too long a dress. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410116 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:29:21 +0000 kkards 2410116@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well no ideas, but want to see I’m looking forward to seeing what you pick. (And how lovely your daughter looks) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410112 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:19:18 +0000 anchie 2410112@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jenni - do you have a photo of your dress, I would love to see it? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410111 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:45:06 +0000 Jenni NZ 2410111@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well I think I don’t really regret spending the money (forget the exact figure, about $300-$350 which was discounted as it was a special outlet type store with a wonderful name, Serendipity.) Because I felt really fantastic! For once I felt exactly right, like “a million dollars” as the saying goes. At that time I wasn’t thinking about cost per wear as much as I did later. The cost per wear has been whatever the dress cost, since I have not worn it again. So if you are worried about possible allergies, then maybe it will be worth it to you to spend on a new dress. And then maybe you would get to go to more balls! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410108 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 09:08:57 +0000 anchie 2410108@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jenni NZ - so nice of you to remember my first (and only) ball. That one was on very short notice and I had to improvise a lot - borrowed dress and clutch from a friend, did my own hair, wore uncomfortable shoes, and didn’t have enough time to sort out shapewear. It was still fun, but this time I’m hoping to do it properly.</p> <p>Suz - you looked fantastic in your opera outfit; I didn’t realize you were in town.</p> <p>When we were looking for a dress for my daughter, we quickly realized that shoes had to be sorted first. Even for renting dresses, they asked her to wear the shoes she’ll use for the ball, because they tailor and adjust the length based on the exact heel height.</p> <p>I’m a little conflicted about renting a dress for myself, even though it would be the simplest solution. I’ve had sensitivity to dry‑cleaning chemicals in the past, and the last time I wore something freshly dry‑cleaned I developed a terrible rash and ended up in the ER. It was years ago, and I’m fine now with colouring my hair again (I also reacted to hair dye back then). I’m hoping that rental dresses are usually cleaned well in advance and that airing them out reduces the risk, but even a small chance of a reaction makes me hesitate, because it could ruin the night.</p> <p>Regarding my current hair colour: I still colour it, but each time I go lighter, and now it’s a very pale platinum blonde - only a shade away from my natural silver. It would be easy to stop colouring completely at this point. I did enjoy being blonde, though, and I’m open to going a bit darker again. I just hated the maintenance. I’m planning to have my hair done professionally before the event and adjust the tone depending on the dress colour. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410089 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 03:18:37 +0000 Suz 2410089@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What fun! I have never been and never expect to go to a debutante ball, but I have been to the opera in Vienna and I know that people there truly enjoy dressing up!&nbsp;</p> <p>You've already received some great advice. I really like the shoes you ordered. They should work well, if the fit is good. In a similar situation, I would probably wear my silver slingbacks (Finds). Dressy flats or low heels are not too difficult to find these days, thank goodness.&nbsp;</p> <p>What colour is your hair, currently? With silver hair, you looked great in brights, but I can see that might be an issue considering you probably don't want to upstage the debs! But jewel tones could definitely work.&nbsp;</p> <p>I like Sal's suggestion to ask parents of last year's debutants, if you can find any. And ask them for shopping ideas, too. Or rental places. You and your daughter are both going to look beautiful for this event.&nbsp;</p> <p>(Photo is last May at Tosca in Vienna. Alas, it was too cold that night for me to wear the swishy skirt I had planned on -- had to be trousers. I definitely was less dressed up than most as a result!)&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410082 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:59:45 +0000 Sal 2410082@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The shoes are lovely!!</p> <p>I think the key thing is to start looking, maybe it will be easy and you can find something to rent or second hand.&nbsp; Maybe you will end up buying new.</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410060 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 20:08:24 +0000 Jenni NZ 2410060@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Also, the shoes you have ordered look gorgeous. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410059 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 20:07:35 +0000 Jenni NZ 2410059@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Your daughter looks so beautiful. I headed back to your 8-year old post about going to the UN ball, when you borrowed your friend’s dress. You looked amazing in some bright blue dresses you tried on. I’m not sure if your hair is coloured at present because that and whether you currently prefer gold or silver jewellery might make a difference.<br /> When I went to a ball in 2013 I bought my dress but I only wore it once. I don’t think renting was quite as easy then but I think now it might be easier and I would consider it. The worn-once dress still sits in my closet. I would also look in consignment and secondhand stores if you have time. In that old thread Ralph Lauren was a brand that came up a lot. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410054 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 19:32:47 +0000 Carol 2410054@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Didn't read through the responses yet, but the first dress Carla picked is about exactly what I had in mind.</p> <p>I would do a really quality fabric in a simple cut, that is flattering to my shape. That muted blue is great, unless the feel of the party is sort of spring/summer, in which case I might lean towards a mint green, satiny silver...or even a jewel tone, like a muted vermillion or hunter green.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410050 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:22:01 +0000 anchie 2410050@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sal - you look great in your dress and green shoes are such fun, fabulous contrast. Great idea to look for photos from previous years, here is one I found, people in photo are tiny and details are not visible. But I got general idea about venue too.<br /> Carla - those are nice examples, great starting point. Unfortunately, I don’t have appropriate shoes either, I mostly wear sneakers and loafers now. I was looking for something metallic but couldn’t find anything that was not too high heel. Just ordered this pair, hope they are appropriate? Neutral enough to work with any dress color. My daughter will also have high school graduation in May, so it will be best to find shoes that I can wear to both events. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410048 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:55:28 +0000 Carla 2410048@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Colour:&nbsp;</b>Navy blue seems to be an almost universally flattering colour for formal events in which the wearer wants to look her best, yet doesn’t want to be center stage. &nbsp;However, you need to be happy - so pick a colour you like, but avoid white (the debutants’ colour) and black.</p> <p><div><br /></div><div><b>Silouhette:&nbsp;</b>an A-line shape seems to flatter most bodies. &nbsp;Elbow or bracelet (3/4) length sleeves provides coverage, and possibly some warmth if it’s cool or there is A/C. &nbsp;Sleeveless works if you are comfortable with the style.</p> <p><b>Footwear:&nbsp;</b>metallic closed toe. &nbsp;Probably silver for your colouring. &nbsp;Might have some longevity in your closet - or you might already have something?</p> <p><b>Hair:&nbsp;</b>a French twist, coiled bun, or some other elegant up-do. &nbsp;</p> <p></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Accessories:&nbsp;</b>a metallic bag/clutch to co-ordinate with footwear. &nbsp;Depending on the neckline, and whether or not the dress is embellished, and how you style your hair - earrings, a necklace, and/or bracelets. &nbsp;(Not all three!) Possibly a topper of some sort to account for cool temps.</p> <p>Check out consignment, second hand, or rent. &nbsp;</p> <p></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410047 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:40:02 +0000 Sal 2410047@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>How exciting Anchie! Your daughter looks stunning in these dresses!</p> <p>I haven’t been to a debutante ball but I love dressing up - this is what I would do.</p> <p>- see if there are photos from last years event or talk to someone to see what parents wore.<br /> - do you have shoes already and work upwards. Last year I bought a long dress but wanted to wear shoes I already had.<br /> - I like underwear that has some shaping but not too much so. For me shaping pants make a big difference in how formal pieces sit on my tummy area. But they are not extreme versions as I don’t want to be uncomfortable all.</p> <p>As to the other questions - I think it needs to feel like you and not be like the debutantes - so I would go for a straighter shape. I could see you in all the stunning blues or metallics or greens.</p> <p>Last year I had an award ceremony and had four days to pick a dress. I visited a trusted local boutique and came up with a dress and jacket and felt really happy with it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/need-guidance-choosing-a-formal-gown-for-my-daughter%e2%80%99s-debutante-ball#post-2410038 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:57:08 +0000 anchie 2410038@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hello Fabbers , it has been a while since I last posted. I’m looking for practical advice on what to wear to my daughter’s debutante ball in the second half of May. Special occasion dressing is very rare for me, and I don’t have anything appropriate for an event at this formality level, so I’m starting completely from scratch.</p> <p>To give a sense of the dressiness and overall aesthetic, here are two photos of my daughter in the dresses she tried. She will also be wearing above‑the‑elbow white gloves and white shoes so the look is very classic and traditional.</p> <p> I would really appreciate guidance on what styles, silhouettes, colours, and fabrics are suitable for a mother at this type of event.</p> <p>What I know so far:</p> <p>• A long gown is required<br /> • It’s a very formal evening event at the Vienna Rathaus<br /> • I’m open to both buying and renting</p> <p>I would love advice on:</p> <p>• Flattering silhouettes for formal gowns<br /> • Appropriate colours that work well for me<br /> • Fabrics or details that look elegant without being overly flashy<br /> • Shoe styles that are comfortable enough for a long evening<br /> • Simple, polished hair ideas (I prefer low‑maintenance styles)<br /> • What level of accessories is typical for this kind of event<br /> • Supportive underwear or any other details I am forgetting </p> <p>Since I’m starting from zero, any guidance on what to look for, and what to avoid , would be very helpful.<br /> Thank you in advance! </p>