No matter what course or level of study, the end of year ball is a stand-out event of everyone’s time at university. It’s effectively your Uni-Cinderella moment where you have an opportunity to transform from that hungover girl rocking up to a 9am in last night’s make-up into an elegant and glamorous red-carpet beauty. However, it is important to note the distinction between your secondary school prom and your university ball.
Tip #1 Do not overdo the prinks
Just like prom, it is likely a friend will offer their abode for photos and celebratory drinks before the event. The difference for your university ball is that you will probably be planning to go to a club afterwards, so there is the temptation to pre-drink to avoid bar prices. You need to be careful of stepping over that boundary from a classy glass of champagne into a trashy mixer, especially as there is usually wine provided at your ball. Don’t be that person that everyone remembers as the ‘really drunk one’ striking embarrassing poses and photo-bombing strangers on your course, as funny as you find it at the time it will most likely lose its appeal the following morning.
Tip #2 Stay away from the poufy diamante studded dresses
University balls are far more laid-back than prom. There isn’t a facebook group for posting your dress so nobody else buys it and there is no need to organise fancy transportation; it is a lot more relaxed. You’ll find that most people wear plain long dresses, perhaps with a cheeky side slit, but nothing marshmallow-like and not ridiculously glitzy. As mentioned, most people go out after, so girls wear dresses they wouldn’t throw a fit at if a bit of drink was spilt.
Tip #3 Sisters before misters
Similarly, university balls are relaxed in the way there is no pressure to have a date. Most people will go with their group of friends, it is rare for even an established couple to arrive together, therefore there is no reason to worry about it. The seating plan for the meal is arranged in advance as well so you can sit with whoever you want and won’t be confronted with a sudden panic that you’ll be forced to sit with strangers.
Tip #4 Remember your serviette
University balls usually include a three course dinner so please remember to cover your dress whilst eating. After going to so much effort getting ready you really do not want to spoil your outfit with a bright red tomato soup stain splodged in a suspicious area. Use your serviette!
Tip #5 Enjoy your night
Your course society will have put in a lot of time and effort into organising your end of year ball and will ensure there are lots of fun things planned. Photo booths with props are now popular so make sure you make the most of it and get some great snaps with your friends that you can treasure forever. Some events may be themed which is a fun added bonus, this year societies seem to be favouring ‘masquerade’ and ‘Great Gatsby’ so make sure you are prepared. Fire-breathers, gymnasts, magicians, bands and dancers are all forms of entertainment seen in the past, the end of year ball is an event not to be missed!
Hopefully these tips have helped you gain more of an idea on what to expect for the end of year ball. Societies should have posted their save-the-date via facebook or email so it is officially time to start budgeting for your ticket and begin the dress search … and you shall go to the ball!
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