The military ball is designed to honor your service member and celebrate tradition. Rather than stressing over what to wear, take the next couple of months to make a plan and prepare when you walk through the door arm in arm with your loved one. If you’re on a strict budget, we have rental options. Or if you feel like treating yourself to a spare-no-expense gown or tux, we’ll help you stay classy. These 5 simple tips from the pros will leave you looking and feeling your best.
Top 10 Tips for Choosing a Classy (not Trashy) Military Ball Gown
Complement your date.
Though you may want to star in your own show and make a grand entrance, think about your date, too. You’ll want your outfit to complement your service member’s uniform, as well. Whether that means donning a beautiful navy gown or turning to the timeless black dress, (or for men, flashy accessories on a suit) think about the person you’ll be posing with in all of those photographs throughout the night.
Stop the show for the right reasons, not all of the wrong reasons
“Go big or go home is not always the answer,” explains Mindi Marshall, Stella and Dot Independent Stylist and Dot Director. “Keep the statement to one piece. If it is a necklace, keep the dress or outfit and the rest of the accessories simple. But if your dress is full of details and you want people to notice it, go simple with your accessories.”
Bold colors like red, yellow or teal make a statement on their own, so there is no need to overcompensate with busy accessories. “Make sure the outfit complements your body type and don’t overdo the red! It’s a fun and oh-so-sexy color, but too much can work against you. If the dress you choose is red, keep your jewelry to a black, gold or silver tone.” Men can follow these rules, as well. Bright, flashy suits can be fun and have their place, but a bright orange suit is probably not–well, suitable for this occasion.