You have probably grown up seeing ball gowns on TVs worn by princesses. The ball gown has a striking silhouette that adds just the right amount of drama to any look. The interesting part is that ball gowns also feel regal, elegant, and poised.
Traditionally, ball gowns have been associated with royalty, evening galas, formal dinners, and masquerades. Nowadays, ball gowns are very commonly worn for events such as homecoming and wedding parties.
This guide takes you through the history of ball gowns to what they are today.
What Is a Ball Gown: Understanding the History
This section outlines for you how the classic ball gown emerged.
18th-Century Origins
In the 18th century, everybody looked up to the European aristocracy. They were known for their dramatic, almost theatrical costumes. Their dresses were characterized by heavily structured skirts that were sometimes held up by hoops to maintain the width. These were worn on formal occasions and in court.
Victorian Era Evolution
A century later, in the Victorian era, these dresses transformed closer to the ball gown shape that we know and love today. For support under the skirt, the side hoops were replaced by a layered petticoat. This changed the shape of the skirt to be rounder and fuller.
In this era, the corset became an important part of evening outfits. Naturally, they became incorporated into the ball gown.
20th-Century Formal Wear
The 20th-century ball gowns were the most obvious choice of dress style for formal events. During this time, designers regularly incorporated ball gowns into their collections. Dresses were characterized by fitted bodies, cinched waists, and flowing skirts.
Modern Era
Today, ball gowns have become much easier to move in and carry. Designers have introduced lighter fabrics that make it easy to work with such a dramatic cut.
What Is a Ball Gown in Terms of Construction and Design Elements?
In comparison to other dress styles, the design for a ball gown is a little more complicated. You can explore the many different variations of this dress style in Sherri Hill’s ball gown collection. Since the ball gown is a full-length dress with a fitted bodice, the patterns have to be structured carefully to keep a balance.
Bodice
The bodice is the top part of the dress. With ball gowns, designers aim to create a bodice that is supportive without feeling restrictive. Many times, boning may be used to provide structure. Another feature is corset-style lacing to create the fitted look.
Skirt
The skirt is the most iconic feature of a ball gown. There are several ways that designers engineer skirts to look voluminous. Some designers may use multiple layers of tulle, and others use underskirts to provide structure.
Fabric
Common fabrics used in ball gowns include satin, organza, and silk. Many dresses feature a lace overlay and tulle details.
When to Wear a Ball Gown
You might now be wondering what the appropriate occasion is to wear this dress style.
Ball gowns look most appropriate when worn for formal occasions, such as prom night, homecoming dinner, wedding functions, galas, and red carpet events.
If your heart desires, though, you can get a ball gown and run through the wilderness to feel like a proper fairytale princess.
How Is a Ball Gown Different From Other Dress Styles?
The ball gown is quite different from other dress styles, but it can still be easy to confuse it with other dress styles featuring a flowy skirt.
When compared to A-line dresses, the difference is that ball gowns have a fuller skirt and a more fitted bodice. A-line dresses, on the other hand, can have varying styles of skirts and cuts for the bodice.
When compared to mermaid dresses, ball gown dresses flare from the waist down rather than from the knees. A true ball gown is also always full-length, fitted at the top, and has a voluminous skirt.
Styling a Ball Gown
Although it may seem daunting at first, styling a ball gown is quite simple. With a ball gown, the dress does all the talking, and the rest of the look is best when kept simple.
Accessories
For accessories, opt for minimal jewelry. Depending on the neckline, you can skip the necklace and only wear earrings and a bracelet. For the bag, clutches look great with any kind of ball gown.
Hair and Makeup
For the hair, choose a romantic updo such as a messy bun. Depending on the dress, Hollywood waves also look great with ball gowns.
Makeup can be a little tricky when styling ball gowns. You want to match the glam of the dress without overdoing the look. Choose a full-coverage foundation and bold eyes. To soften the makeup, choose a lipstick in a “my-lips-but-better” shade.
Final Timeless Style Notes for a Ball Gown
When picking out a ball gown, incorporate your own personal style. Go for colors that speak to you and choose a fabric that you can comfortably wear. Confidence is the best accessory to elevate your look, especially when wearing a ball gown.
