January 6, 2009 · filed under blonde moments, dc

48
comments

the belle of the ball

Michelle Obama will be the one true Belle of the Balls, but yours truly will be there to watch. That’s right, I am going to one of the Official Presidential Inaugural Balls…TWO WEEKS FROM TONIGHT.

I had months to pick out a prom dress, a year to plan my wedding, and…fourteen days to get ready for Washington’s biggest night perhaps ever. Hold me.

Note to self: Why didn’t you start your diet last year?…Do those Hollywood Diets really work?…How many minutes can I devote to the treadmill in the next two weeks?

Oh well, no time for major weight loss now, I have to make the most of what I’ve got. Dress code is officially Black Tie, so let’s talk about attire:

  • Husband’s Tuxedo: Purchased tonight! Men have it so easy. We just need to buy a sexy cummerbund and bowtie to complete the look. Do you think anyone has ever said “sexy cummerbund” before? Gah! I’m having flashbacks to 7th grade choir concerts.
  • My Dress: Here is where I need your help. Is it an absolute rule that I wear a floor length gown? On one hand, yes, it is Black Tie, but on the other hand, it’s the new millennium, when “rules” are no longer “rules,” right? And I have to work overtime like a madwoman over the next two weeks, so there isn’t a lot of time for shopping. And we’re already spending a lot of money on this even without the dress. And….again with the fatness thing. UGH. So — can I wear this dress?

[Pausing for a moment while you go look at the dress. I wore it to a black tie wedding in 2007, but that was for my friend, and she couldn't turn me away at the door for my dress being too short.]

Assuming you tell me it’s okay to wear that dress (but be honest!), then how should I do my hair and accessories? I just feel like an old frumpy, lumpy married lady who forgot how to look hot. Send in the troops!

Deep breaths. Right now I’m try to shove away my insecurities and just be grateful to have this amazing opportunity. Plus, It helps to know that my dress will not be as bad as Eleanor Roosevelt’s.

48 Comments

  1. Nic
    January 6, 2009 10:13 pm

    Sorry, you’ve got to get a new dress. The dress just isn’t fancy enough. For something like this, people are pulling out all of the stops. You can go short if it’s a super fancy fabric, but if you want something more plain, go long. This is a once in a lifetime event. Buy a dress. It will be awesome.

  2. Wickedly Scarlett
    January 6, 2009 10:28 pm

    Hm, yeah, that dress is super cute, but I wouldn’t say that it’s black tie. Being that you’ll be at a political event, maybe you’d want to stick with floor length too? I’m a traditional old biddy though, so I’m curious to see what other people think. You’re going to have a blast! I can’t wait to see pictures!

    Oh, and for cute hair style, I’m a big fan of the loose side bun, maybe with a couple of tendrils around your face on the side of your face without the bun. But those kind of details tend to depend on the dress you wear.

  3. Jen
    January 6, 2009 10:31 pm

    As a lurker, I feel thoroughly unqualified to weigh in here, but as a totally-wishing-I-could-be-in-DC-but-stuck-taking-a-very-meanly-timed- med-school-exam-in-Boston-DURING-the-inauguration lurker, I feel sufficiently compelled to delurk and agree with Nic, that the totally adorable jersey dress just will not fly for an event that you’ve arguably been waiting for for EIGHT YEARS. Just pretend that you have been putting away 2 dollars a month since the end of the Clinton era, to fund an inaugural ball gown of progressive glee…that’s nearly $200 right there!

  4. Carly
    January 6, 2009 10:35 pm

    This might be weird, I’m Colin Christofferson’s sister Julia’s friend Carly…we’ve met a couple of times. I found your blog through Alison’s blog and am admittedly disappointed when you haven’t posted for awhile ;)

    Anyway, I have to agree with Nic. New dress. And perhaps not this one per say – cha-ching! – but something like it would be lovely:

    http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Feature_Assortment/c atalogjcrewcomexclusives/dresses/PRDOVR~95959/95959.jsp?srcCode=AFFI00 001&siteId=KSqIQ6SzPUQ-Rz4VaV8*ucrW0x%2FPnCX10w

    The jeweled neckline is super “in” yet classic and eliminates the need for a lot of jewelry…you’d really just need stud earrings, a clutch and shoes (and maybe a cocktail ring if you wanted) and you’re good to go. Most importantly, have fun with it! What a wonderful experience, I’m jealous!

  5. Lori
    January 6, 2009 10:44 pm

    That is going to be soooo fun! Can you take pictures while at the ball? Or is that not black-tie behavior? If you could get some of senators doing keg stands or Obama singing karaoke I would be impressed.

  6. Jummy
    January 6, 2009 10:49 pm

    I’ll add my vote to the “new dress needed” category. I really think you’d look lovely in a long glam dress so I’m totally in favour of it. I know you don’t have much time (or $$$) to shop but maybe you could take a few hours to visit your favourite shopping centre and you might stumble across a deal.

    For a more inexpensive idea, do you have any friends or family members who might have the perfect long dress waiting in their closet?

    I can’t wait to see the pictures (I know you won’t let us down!)

  7. Janssen
    January 6, 2009 11:00 pm

    Much as my money-pinching heart hates to agree with everyone, I think you should spring for a new dress.

    Also, WOW you’re going to Obama’s ball!!!!

  8. BabsieD
    January 6, 2009 11:14 pm

    New dress, absolutely. And honestly, you really will want to wear flats so you’ll want to go long to conceal.

    Options:
    1.) Neimans has a HUGE rack of dresses at 40% off on their second floor at Mazza.
    2.) There’s a Nicole Miller Trunk show this weekend at Imagine Fashion Apothecary (www.shopimaginefashion.com)–they are 20% off, and are already reasonably priced.
    3.) Ginger is having a Saja trunk show this week (www.gingerstyle.com), with 10% off their gowns (which are also gorg and cheap).

    Have fun!

  9. Liz
    January 6, 2009 11:19 pm

    I’m no expert on inaugural balls, but if they’re anything like the Oscars which I watch religiously every year, then you need to go floor-length. And up-dos of any kind always appear more fancy, so even if you’re totally against doing the floor length or just run out of time/money to find something worthy, then you could maybe do an up-do with the dress you have and some fancy accessories to make it a bit more flashy.

  10. Kelly
    January 6, 2009 11:26 pm

    Awesome!!! And as much as I love that ‘lil dress, you need a gown for this shindig! :) Good luck!

  11. the ambitious mrs
    January 7, 2009 12:03 am

    Do you think anyone will notice if you re-purpose your wedding dress? :)

    I don’t think that dress is going to do it. So sorry! I would ask around for something to borrow or look at Filene’s Basement. Do you know anyone who got married in black? I don’t know that you need floor length, but what about tea length? Sounds so cool!

  12. Jenni
    January 7, 2009 12:21 am

    That is SO super exciting! I hope you have a fab time…and take pics if you can!

    I have to agree with everyone else that you need to splurge on a new dress…the one you have is really cute, but not black tie. Maybe you can find some holiday dresses (that aren’t too holiday) on sale somewhere? Even a simple black floor length dress would look great. You an pair it with some simple elegant jewelry – maybe pearls? And I think an updo would be best.

    Good luck! Can’t wait to see what you come up with!

  13. Fishing Around
    January 7, 2009 12:35 am

    Floor-length dress. Totally.

  14. Janet
    January 7, 2009 1:02 am

    I agree with the others, you need a gown.

    Have a fabulous time!!

  15. Sarah
    January 7, 2009 7:20 am

    I am sure you don’t need me to join the “new dress” chorus, but I will anyway. Also, I am so excited for you! I’d say this is reason enough to splurge and got for the full length gown. OBAMA!! When else are you going to have the opportunity?

  16. Korinna
    January 7, 2009 9:09 am

    Gown v. dress. I’ve always thought that anything with “Ball” in the event title requires a gown.

    Check out Macy’s.com. They’re having some crazy sales and can do expedited shipping. Then order a clutch, accessories and shoes on the cheap from Target.com.

    There’s always lunchtime shopping.

    More importantly have fun!

  17. catherine
    January 7, 2009 9:24 am

    yeah, that dress is cute and all, but you really must get a new one for an inaugural ball.

  18. Liberal Banana
    January 7, 2009 9:26 am

    OMG – I’m so jealous. And you’re lucky to already live in DC so you won’t have to travel far to get there. We’re in VA (within the beltway) and the idea of heading downtown is not appealing. I love love love Obama but I think I’ll be sitting this one out. Am I super lame? Yes, yes I am.

  19. RA
    January 7, 2009 9:34 am

    Phew! I agree with the general “new dress” consensus, but last night I was afraid to be the first commenter with that opinion. Yeah, I think at least a longer skirt is in order, but the jersey knit takes that dress out of the running. Good luck!

  20. Brie
    January 7, 2009 10:11 am

    You simply must have a new dress.

  21. ExSchutz
    January 7, 2009 10:15 am

    Firstly, I am JEALOUS. Secondly, I am in agreement with everyone else. Get a new dress. The sale rack is your friend. And I am your friend if you take me with you.

  22. Operation Pink Herring
    January 7, 2009 10:18 am

    I love that dress, but I agree with the million others that it’s not quite fancy enough. I also agree that floor-length isn’t necessarily… necessary.

    Also, if you are in need of jewelery my wedding earrings just came in and I would be happy to lend them to you! I have white gold diamond studs and white gold diamond/pearl drop earrings… and I also have a cheap but fancy-looking pair of gold chandelier earrings from a wedding this fall if you’re in need of gold accessories!

  23. Nathan Pralle
    January 7, 2009 10:27 am

    Agreed with the “new dress” idea — the other one is a great outfit and perfect for a formal dining with collegues — but not a ball. True black tie (and I would imagine this falls under the categorization of “true”) would dictate a proper gown.

    And hey…what woman doesn’t like shopping for a new dress?

    Yes, us men have it easy, thankfully. But we never look as stunning as you ladies in a great dress and face.

    Jealous that you’re going to one of the balls! Pictures are going to be mandatory, you realize. Enjoy the hell out of it!

  24. katie
    January 7, 2009 10:33 am

    ahhhh how exciting!!! that’s so awesome, i am JEALOUS! :)

    i would recommend going to macy’s (or some other department store)…there are a TON of really pretty dresses on clearance right now and you can get something beautiful for a steal!

    i hope you write about the ball so we can live vicariously through you :)

  25. cady
    January 7, 2009 10:34 am

    i agree with the others that you need a new dress. i think your dress is super cute, but i don’t think it’s fancy enough for this. plus, when are you going to go to an inaugural ball again?? it’s definitely a good reason to get a new dress!

  26. Monica
    January 7, 2009 10:46 am

    I think the vote is unanimous, Cinderella needs a new dress for the ball. I hope you have an amazing night!

  27. Erika
    January 7, 2009 11:31 am

    I was almost too jealous to post, but I have to say that we are totally broke right now and if I were going, I definitely would be getting a new dress and getting my hair and makeup done by professionals. Hello Visa. Seriously Janet, you are going to be telling your grandkids about this and showing them photos.

  28. lesli
    January 7, 2009 11:35 am

    You look tres adorable in this little dress, but I feel you should spring for a new, floor length gown. As for hair, definitely a stylish updo. I am so excited for you!!

  29. Bellacantare
    January 7, 2009 11:37 am

    Yeah, you need a fancier dressy dress for this kind of event. I agree with one of the commenters above about Macys. AMAZING SALES – they’re practically paying you to take stuff out of the store. Also, if you have a David’s Bridal in your area, they have dresses off the rack that aren’t necessarily wedding gowns or bridesmaids dresses. Some of their stuff is for female guests at a wedding, so those would be fancy enough for a black tie event. Good luck (and take pics if you’re allowed to)!

  30. Laurie
    January 7, 2009 11:47 am

    I think you need a bit of sparkle..I would for a night like this! If you don’t have the cash- what size are you? I have some sparkly dresses you might like…

    email me if interested…

  31. Laurie
    January 7, 2009 11:47 am

    Oh and I am up in Columbia, MD, so pretty easy to hook up (sorry forgot to mention)

  32. Zandria
    January 7, 2009 12:32 pm

    I like that dress, but if I was going to an actual Inaugural Ball I’d have to go fancier. (So jealous! Don’t you have an extra ticket to throw around?) It does suck about the money though, especially if it’s not something you’ll use all that much (or ever again).

  33. Jane
    January 7, 2009 1:09 pm

    Since it is a new era in Washington,I think you need a new dress!!! Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but I think you’d feel underdressed at a gala of this level!! Hopefully you can find some great post-holiday clearance!??

    Good luck! And how amazing! it’ll be great!

  34. Melissa
    January 7, 2009 1:12 pm

    Echoing everyone else: As much as I adore that dress on you, and as perfect as it is for any other occasion, I think the Inaugural Ball is the one occasion to go fancier. I don’t know if dress length matters as much as the overall style; I’m sure something just below the knees could look very elegant too.

    You worked so hard during the campaign… and it’s such an honor just to be present on that historical night… so why not go for it? You deserve it, and this will surely be one of the most amazing memories of your life! :)

  35. Ashley
    January 7, 2009 1:14 pm

    Oh my goodness I am so stinkin’ jealous! And because it’s such a BIG night, I think it’s an absolute MUST that you get a brand new dress to remember it by!

  36. katelin
    January 7, 2009 1:31 pm

    okay that is so exciting. and i’m no dress expert but i think i’d vote for a new, full length dress. but eeeee cannot wait to hear about it. have fun!

  37. Celia
    January 7, 2009 2:13 pm

    I’m jumping on the “new dress” bandwagon. It’s Obama! You need something amazing and possibly sparkly. I don’t think you look big but if you feel uncomfortable take comfort in the fact that you have beautiful skin and pull off anything. If nothing else, think of it as economic stimulus.

  38. Holly
    January 7, 2009 3:09 pm

    Lucky.

    I’m amazed at how many people responded, but it looks like we are all in agreement.

    I don’t think Black Tie nec means floor length, but that it would depend on the occasion. Inauguration would mean fancy and floor length, esp since DC tends to be a little more conservative in fashion.

    Dillards was selling leather tall boots for under $100 so surely you can find a fancy dress on sale at most dept stores.

  39. heidikins
    January 7, 2009 3:12 pm

    I think a new dress is in order, something shiny or sparkly or something. I don’t think that floor-length is necessary, although it would be fabulous. Have you thought about renting a dress? That way you could save a bit of money and not feel badly about not wearing it again.

    Also, J.Crew sale has a bunch of (shorter) party dresses that may work.

    xox

  40. Amber
    January 7, 2009 4:15 pm

    I’m going to have to agree. I think you need a floor length dress for this one! Something so classic that when you look at these pictures in 20 years the dress still looks good!
    There are so many sales out there right now, head into any department store and you should be able to find the perfect dress at a super cheap price!
    Good luck and have fun! I’m so jealous!

  41. Ryann
    January 7, 2009 5:20 pm

    This is the end all be all of political parties… no? New dress! And you could sell it on ebay or craigslist afterwards! Maybe get an Obama to autograph it and actually MAKE money! :)

  42. Mel
    January 7, 2009 7:09 pm

    I’m another naysayer that says the short dress won’t do. You’ll need something longer and more “gown” like. I just thought I’d run through the basics, as everyone else has pretty much said the same thing. :) Make sure what ever you get says shiny and glam! :D

  43. Jackie
    January 7, 2009 7:40 pm

    I read this post (http://askmissa.com/2009/01/07/are-you-ready-for-inaugural-events/) today and it reminded me I wanted to comment on this post. Definitely spring for the long dress!

  44. Courtney
    January 7, 2009 7:57 pm

    I am so so so jealous! I want to go!

    And I’m sorry to say it, but… you need a new dress. That one is adorable, but not black tie enough for this event, methinks. And an up-do. For sure!

  45. AuburnKat
    January 7, 2009 8:58 pm

    I would have to agree, I think a new dress is in order. This is a perfect excuse to treat yourself to a wonderful dress! Opportunities like this don’t come around that many times!

  46. Jen
    January 7, 2009 9:22 pm

    A new dress, absolutely. Floor or tea length, simple with some embellishment and then have a wonderful time! I am SO jealous.

  47. Larissa
    January 7, 2009 10:50 pm

    New dress! Maybe a dressier, longer one?

    I am so unbelievably jealous of you. I want to go to a ball!

  48. mbbored
    January 8, 2009 1:28 am

    Oh, I’m so jealous on so many fronts. Liveblogging will go a long way to assuage that jealousy! Anyways, are you set on the cumberbund? I find vests are a little more modern, provided you go for a real vest, not the falsy ones that just connect in the back with silly straps at the neck & waist.