It's Time for The Ball Again

I have decided to write a little etiquette lesson, quite frankly harshly, I am sick of seeing the Marines bring dates, whether they be wives or girlfriends, and in some cases possibly escorts (?), arriving in inappropriate attire. In my opinion it cheapens the event, and yes, it makes you and your date look bad. On another note, like it or not, it may not be right, but, yes. People do and will talk about you, not only that evening but for years to come. Especially if you look particularly ridiculous and out of place. No one will ask you to leave, but you will probably get some pretty bad stares, and your date may even be made fun of on his next full work day.

The Marine Corps Ball is a formal event. It's a tradition and an honor to attend. It is a formal ball. If you know anything about proper etiquette you know that attendees to these events who are not wearing a formal military uniform should be wearing a floor length gown, or a tuxedo. That is what is considered to be formal ball attire.

"A formal gown is a specific type of dress a woman wears to a formal event such as a formal dinner, a formal ball, or a formal wedding. The definitions of white-tie formal wear for women occasionally changes from time to time. In the past, the appropriate clothing for white tie formal attire in female dress would have been the ball gown, and not an evening gown. Most of us would not know the difference between the two. However, according to etiquette rules, the distinction between an evening gown and a ball gown is determined by examining the fullness of the skirt and the modesty of the top. The ball gown may have a décolleté style, or have a low neckline, while the evening gown may be more revealing, with spaghetti straps or strapless. Under most circumstances these distinctions are unimportant. The bottom line is when white tie formal attire is requested a woman must wear a full-length dress- a formal dress." (Source)

It's not always about how much you spend, or what your hair looks like, or if you are the prettiest, or even the color. Remember, this event is not about you. It's about the Marines, and you are privileged to be able to attend. The least you could do is follow proper etiquette for ball attire.

A knee length dress, that you might consider formal is a cocktail dress- Just think, are you attending a cocktail party? No. Furthermore, a butt length dress with your boobs hanging out makes you look like a hooker- a cheap hooker.

Marine Corps Ball, Camp Pendleton, 2009 (YES, this was a real attendee)

Please think about what you wear. Don't embarrass yourself or your date. It's really simple: Don't dress like a slut, and make sure the dress at least goes to your ankles, although floor length is most appropriate. You can still be sexy and stylish with a full length gown.