SO YOU’VE bought tickets to the ball. Now you have to worry about what to wear. How are you going to do your hair? Do boys really have it easier? Here are some tips about what you should, and more importantly, shouldn’t do at this year’s ball.
The little black dress is safe, but take a hint from this season’s look and throw in a splash of colour. Photos: Yihong Chew
Too Cool for school
To any guy who thinks dressing up for a themed ball is childish and uncool, think again. Girls love it when you make the effort! There is no such thing as over-the-top, at least for a themed ball, so remember to check what your date is wearing and dress accordingly. Even if you’re attending this year’s outrageous Melbourne Uni Science Ball with its swanky 1920s theme, ALWAYS make the effort. It will make your night more special and will definitely impress the date.
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Just remember, a sense of humour is key in this situation, but nothing too drastic please. Don’t dye your hair a ridiculous colour. It may work with your outfit, but what are you going to do the morning after?
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Keep it classy
Girls, a ball is the perfect time to get dressed up, but remember this is a formal occasion and not just another Saturday night out on the town. Rather than wear your regular clubbing gear, make an effort too.
If it’s a themed ball, remember that’s no excuse to flaunt your… assets… it’s a chance to dress unusually and have some fun in something you normally wouldn’t wear. So keep in mind the golden rule: Less is more when it comes to showing some skin, but more is fantastic when you’re dressing for a kooky theme!
Wondering what to wear men? Draw some inspiration from the Melbourne Spring Fashion Week. Photos: Yihong Chew
Nothing suits more than a suit
When it comes to uni balls, guys have it easy. They don’t need to wear new six-inch heels or curl their hair, but that doesn’t mean they can just throw anything on. Nothing is hotter than a man in a good suit. And I mean a GOOD suit. No crazy ties that light up when you touch them, and please, no bright Nike shoes. Just keep it simple. Think Don Draper from MadMen or Neil Patrick Harris in How I Met Your Mother.
A well-fitted suit, straight leg trousers and a neatly pressed shirt will turn any caveman into a Casanova in no time at all, but you have to complete the picture. That means remembering to comb your hair and shave. It’s the finer details that make all the difference.
Know your limits. Reduce your chance of face planting by wearing heels that won’t endanger your life with every step you take. Photo: Johnny Berg
Be Practical
No one likes watching a girl who has had a bit too much bubbly trip down the stairs, but believe me, it happens. Reduce your chance of face planting by wearing heels that won’t endanger your life with every step you take.
Know your limits. If you can’t walk in six-inch stilettos, do you think you could dance in eight-inch ones? Beauty doesn’t equal pain, so don’t wear shoes that will hurt you. It’s not worth rocking up in spectacular shoes, if you’re dancing barefoot 30 minutes later. Girls should be carrying a drink in their hand, not their discarded heels.
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Accessorise accordingly
Getting your hair done is just as important as getting a new outfit, but remember, don’t overdo your hairdo. Boys want to see your face, but how can they do that if a great, big fluffy ponytail is in the way? At the same time, avoid going crazy with the makeup. You want to look like a supermodel, not a circus clown.
Accessories are a great way to give an amazing outfit those necessary finishing touches, so make sure everything is appropriate. When it comes to jewellery, try not to clutter the face, neck and arms. You don’t want people to be able to hear you coming from miles away because of the jangle of your bangles! Keep it simple and don’t forget the other important accessories, like your bag and your date! It’s not lame to match the colour of your accessories with your date either. It’s just another way to make your night special.
Turn heads for all the right reasons with a colourful little number like this. Photo: Yihong Chew
Stand out from the crowd (in the right way)
Remember that a university ball is YOUR night! You want to turn heads in the best way possible. There’s nothing wrong with wearing something a bit more colourful to grab people’s attention. Playing it safe in a little black dress can always be done, but you’re only young once! Take advantage of this season’s great prints and colours, and don’t stop shopping until you find the right dress/shoes/tie/earrings/anything! Just remember that you can be classy, comfy and timeless in any colour. Except for guys, you probably shouldn’t invest money in a bright orange suit.
Remember, a university ball isn’t just about the outfit, it’s also about your attitude and actions. Don’t forget to always compliment your date, meet new people, have a dance and NOT drink too much before your arrive. That’s a definite turn-off!
Don’t get smashed even before the party has started. It’s definitely not a good look. Photo: El Hummer
To celebrate the upcoming university ball season, Meld hit the streets to hear your fashion dos and don’ts:
The biggest turn off for girls
- “Guys shouldn’t take their shirts off when they’re drunk, especially if they’re commerce students.” – Thu
- “Don’t turn up drunk. Wear suits because suits are attractive and polished shoes. Just make some form of an effort, and always compliment the girls.” – Jessica and Mae
- “Don’t wear really funky ties.” – Hope
The biggest turn off for guys:
- “Girls should avoid very short dresses, not show too much off and have some class.” – Ben
- “Nothing really skanky or revealing. Wear whatever accentuates their characteristics. Match it with their partners.” – Karl
- “Dress appropriately, don’t wear sandals.” – Nicholas