Gala Balls: How to Dress & Impress
Every year, various student associations organize nights full of dancing, glitz & glamour, and cava! This is your chance to dig out your most stunning outfit (or treat yourself to a new one đ)! At the gala balls of student clubs, you’re guaranteed to dance until the early hours and feel like you’re in the world of Bridgerton! Here are some tips to dress and impress!
Respect the Dress Code
Dressing up the fancy way? It doesnât happen every day, so seize the moment and leave those jeans at home! Fully embrace the glamorous vibes. Check the eventâs website beforehand to see if thereâs a specific dress code like black tie, formal, or themed. Pinterest is a fantastic platform to gather some inspiration. Also, ask your friends to join in the outfit planningâitâs definitely part of the fun! đ
Comfort Over Everything
Dancing all night long? Make sure your outfit is both stunning and comfortable. Comfort doesnât have to mean boring, of course. Try out your suit or dress beforehand to see if you can move freely. Thereâs nothing worse than a too-tight outfit or a dress you keep tripping over (trust me, been there!).If you know you wonât last two hours in heels, bring a spare pair of shoes! Most events have a coat check, so you donât have to carry them around all night. Your feet will thank you. Pro tip: Take your outfit pictures at the start of the eveningâno one will know youâve swapped shoes later on. Itâll be our little secret!
Pretty on a Budget?
Buying a new dress or suit for just one event can get pricey. But there are other options! Thrifting is always a fun and sustainable alternative. Many people donate their gala outfits to secondhand stores, and Antwerp is full of them! Our favorites include ThinkTwice, Riot, Episode, and De Kringwinkel. You can also try Vinted, where you can search for specific brands and even negotiate prices. Bonus: youâre steering clear of the fast-fashion cycle!
Wardrobe Emergency
Sometimes, wardrobe malfunctions happenâbut donât panic! Pack a mini emergency kit with items like safety pins, blister patches, stain remover wipes, and deodorant. This way, youâre prepared for anything. And if your friends have an issue, youâll be their hero with your magical kit!
The Golden Tip
Whatever you wear, make sure itâs something that makes you feel amazing. Elevate your outfit with accessories that are authentically you, like a statement necklace, bold earrings, a funky tie, or a stylish hat. It might sound clichĂ©, but itâs true: being yourself is the best outfit and always impressive! đ
Feeling Inspired to Attend a Gala?
Hereâs a list of upcoming student gala balls:
14/02/2025: Gala Ball UAntwerpen
07/03/2025: Gala Ball Lingua + SE + Klio
21/03/2025: Gala Ball PSW
28/03/2025: Gala Ball Abundantia + Primus + Omnes
28/03/2025: Gala Ball Elsa
25/04/2025: Gala Ball Imbit
There are plenty more out thereâkeep an eye on the socials of Antwerpâs student associations for updates and tickets.
Have fun partying in style!
