The Paradise Ball also honors Mrs. Post, who purchased her home in Palm Beach in 1922, the same year as the Salvation Army of Palm Beach County was founded. A double centennial celebration! Her gracious entertaining and philanthropy was world renown. She is elegantly dressed in this portrait, perfect for a White-tie Ball.
It is finally happening! After months of planning, and the joyful execution of three pre-celebratory events, The Salvation Army of Palm Beach County’s 100th anniversary, Paradise Ball, will take place this weekend!
While I have already discussed White-tie attire for men in a previous newsletter, a few of your inquiries prompted me to cover these additional details for ladies.
White-tie dress code for ladies:
The appropriate dress is a floor-length gown. If you always wanted to wear a Cinderella ballgown, this is your moment. Ballgowns and floor-length gowns contribute to the gracious old-world elegance of a White-tie Ball. Cocktail attire, semi-formal dresses and pantsuits are not worn. Think White House State dinner, or a Buckingham Palace Royal State Dinner.
Shoes:
Heels with a closed toe are traditionally worn, and not an open-toed shoe. Glass slippers? Doubtful! What about Dorothy’s “click-your-heels-sequin-sparkly” shoes? Definitely! Glittering silver or gold is always festive! The most classic shoe of all is covered in peau de soie (silk/satin weave fabric) and may be in any color to complement the gown.
Gloves:
Gloves are not required but are considered de rigueur. If you do choose to wear opera-length gloves, a bracelet may be worn over one glove, not both. Rings are not worn over a glove- and I doubt they would fit anyway! Remember, one may drink with gloves on, but one does not eat with gloves on. When dining, both gloves are either removed, folded in half, and placed on one’s lap, or unbuttoned under the wrist so the hand portion of the glove is tucked up inside the glove.
Jewelry:
A must! This is the perfect opportunity to sparkle! Drop earrings, diamonds, and pearls, or other gemstones chosen to complement your gown will enhance your overall glamorous aesthetic. Brooches are worn over your heart, on your left side.
Tiaras:
Tiaras (preferably inherited from the family) are only worn by married women or a bride. While appropriate for a White-tie event, they are traditionally worn only when the invitation indicates “White-tie with Decorations.” Although protocol has become more relaxed in America, many opt to wear a tiara to a White-tie event regardless.
Hair:
If your hair is long, it should be pulled back or swept up in an updo. (Your drop earrings will have an opportunity to be seen and shimmer!)
Evening purse:
Elegantly small in size, and in silk, satin, kid leather, or one that is jewel-like (my preference!). What do I carry inside my purse?
A tiny silver purse pen, two personal calling cards, lipstick, a tiny comb, a tiny powder, a tiny perfume, a safety pin, mad money (a $20 bill), and if space allows, a little embroidered hanky. My phone and eyeglasses never seem to fit, so my husband Stuart gets that privilege… one that he would gladly relinquish!
What an honor to Chair the Paradise Ball! It has been a dream to work alongside my stellar and supportive team. This is a charity I truly believe in. Located in 131 countries and every zip code in America, the Salvation Army can be counted upon to be there in support of disasters and so much more. Each day, this faith-based charity feeds over 25 million people, including providing more than 225 million meals total and nearly 10 million lodgings. And most importantly, more donated dollars go directly to those in need than to overhead, unlike many other notable charities. Case in point: The Paradise Ball was underwritten with generous sponsors and ticket sales… thanks to many of you!
When you see the red kettle- think pink! Come and get involved with me. I am looking forward it seeing many of you, my darling subscribers, at the Ball.
Xx
Holly