So I'm going to the Montana Governor's Inaugural Ball

tallt

I have never gone to an official formal event like this. Will a Montana ball be truly a fancy ball, I don't know. I have a long but simple black dress that looks great on my 6'1" somewhat slim frame. The ball is happening the second week of February and the possibility is that there will be snow on the ground. What do I do for a "coat". I have a remarkably long sweater coat - as long as the dress. Is that retarded? Perhaps a bollo faux fur shrug would be more appropriate? Also, I have silver sandals that are open toed. Do I wear stockings with that even though they are open toed? If so, what kind? Any ideas?

12 years ago

Dressing

8 replies

Latest reply was from rachylou

Spiffy

Active Member

I don't like open toe shoes with stockings. Maybe if they don't have the seam at the toe but even then I tend not to like them. I would say with the time of year, opt for closed toes. A LBD is alway appropriate for any level of formality.

The word 'retarded' is pretty emotionally loaded. For many of us who love a family or friend whom the world thinks is 'retarded' it is very hateful word to throw around so casually.
'Inappropriate', 'Silly', 'Incorrect', those are all words you could have used instead that wouldn't hurt so much.

12 years ago

sopranomom

Active Member

I'm betting that this ball will be truly fancy in every way. I'd love to see pictures of the long black dress. It sounds stunning. As for your outerwear: the sweater might be too casual and therefore inappropriate. I'm often freezing at semi-formal events. Is your faux fur shrug the sleek, formal kind rather than the fuzzy, casual kind? Your accessories can really make the long black dress shine for you. Good luck. Good thing you're planning ahead.

12 years ago

Anonymous

A faux fur shrug sounds like a good choice for your long dress. Could you wear thin leggings from the hosiery department under the long dress to keep your legs warm and still leave your feet bare in the open toe sandals? Visit a Nordstrom's (or other department store) hosiery department to see what your options are. I've seen but not tried toeless stockings and there are toeless shoe liners

12 years ago

kkards

Veteran

since the event is being held in the winter, in a state known for winter, i would think that there would be a coat check room, so i would wear a "real" winter coat and check it. i would probably do the same with boots.

12 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

As someone who has gone to two inaugural balls (although one was for Bill Clinton, can't believe how long ago it was!), I'd say don't skimp on the dressing up. Your dress sounds great.

I would wear a nice coat, and yes there will be a coat check, but you'll feel better going in, and especially since many folks go to dinner before, etc. If you don't have anything appropriate, I'd consider borrowing one. I have a long white wool coat that only gets worn maybe once or twice a year, but I've had it for over a decade, it's a timeless cut, and I'll always keep it for dressier occasions.

As for shoes, I'd personally choose something with a little more coverage than sandals in the winter -- I have a pair of black peep-toes that can be worn with hose. I just always feel like bare sandals look odd in the dead of winter.

I realize Montana is less formal than DC, and I'm sure you will see some dressed-down people there, but I am personally more comfortable erring on the side of being dressier. People are taking photos, etc., and it's a very special occasion and honor, so I like to step it up.

Have a great time!

12 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

PS. An aside, I just visited Montana for the first time two years ago, and I loved it. Glacier National Park was a big highlight of my trip (I spent two months driving/photographing/ camping during a solo cross-country road trip), and I can't wait to go back!

12 years ago

Beth Ann

Veteran

Are there pictures of past Ball's on a website or facebook page? That might be one way of gettiing a feeling for what "formal" means in this case. Oh --- and I second a more closet shoe!

12 years ago

rachylou

Veteran

I was just wondering that too, Beth Ann, that maybe there were pictures on the web from past balls. I like the idea of peep toes with stockings (stockings are de rigeur for formal) and, I would, a secret pair of leggings!

A fancy coat is a good idea. I have a couple of fur lined coats I keep just for dress up occasions.

The dress sounds right. You will have fun!

12 years ago

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