There are two big galas coming up in the next 2 week. The Hair of the Dog affectionately known as HOD is January 20 and the Academy of Music 161st Anniversary Concert and Ball on January 27. People always ask me what should they wear when they attend these galas. I have a few examples from my “Best Dressed List” of both parties last year. (Need a Tux or White Tie, head to MenWearhouse on 1600 block Chestnut Street. For you guys going to Academy, we have a group number set up. Anyone will do, but if Will Speed is there, ask for him. -Ad)
First up is the Academy Ball.

The Academy Ball is a White Tie Gala. The most gallant, and strictest in criteria for dress.

For women it means formal, floor length evening gown, best jewels and often women will wear gloves. For men it’s black tail coat (not a white one like I originally thought the first time I went, opps) matching pants with a single satin or braid stripe, a white wing collar shirt, a white vest or white pique’ waist coat, studs and a white bow tie. Black shoes.

Not the correct bow tie or vest Mr Short

Gorgeous

Perfect

This duo is always on my best dressed list at a lot of parties,
but in this case his shoes may not be appropriate for a White Tie Gala

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Hair of the Dog is a Black Tie event

Formal evening gown or dress, or dressy cocktail dress. Males: Black tuxedo jacket, matching trousers, formal (pleated front or pique’) white shirt, black (silk, satin) bow tie, black cummerbund to match tie, optional suspenders, black patent shoes, black dress socks.

Jen Sherlock’s gown is perfect for either gala, although too much of a “nude” panel would not be acceptable at Academy Ball, while Jen’s friend cute cocktail dress is perfect for HOD

Vivian’s gown is perfect for HOD, and would be ok for the Academy Ball.
It’s gorgeous!!

These dresses are perfect for the HOD

Definitely adorable for HOD

Gorgeous gown, but the Academy Ball frowns on too much breast, where at HOD we celebrate it.
Hopefully these examples will give you an idea of what is appropriate for each event.