So you bought a ticket to the Diplomatic Ball. Good choice. This Friday night you’ll be sipping on champagne (or soda) with classmates, friends, and some the worlds most influential diplomats and politicians. You’ll listen to killer performances from Georgetown’s own GraceNotes and dance the night away with a live DJ performance. You’ll make valuable life-long connections and memories. It’s time to make sure you’re adequately prepared for this momentous occasion.
Obligatory:
1. Conversation starters. Practice introducing yourself and politely starting a conversation with a guest bearing a “VIP” tag. There’s no need to try to be overly clever or impressive, just be yourself and relax. Ask them if they’re enjoy the evening, or if they have any connection with Georgetown. Speaking in a friendly, open, and curious manner will lead the conversation in a stress-free course, and you may find yourself connecting with someone not just professionally, but personally as well.
2. The correct address. It seems there was a misprint on the invites, so there is a little bit of confusion regarding the correct address of the venue. To be fair, the misprinted address signifies the corporate office of the Women’s Memorial, but it certainly isn’t the beautiful venue where the event will be held. The correct address of the stunning Women’s Memorial is:
Women In Military Service For America Memorial
1 Memorial Ave
Fort Myer, VA 22211
3. A firm hand shake. Nothing says “rude” quite like a noncommittal wave and shifty eye contact.
4. Confidence. The best way to have a great evening is to feel proud and secure in everything you say and do! Now that doesn’t mean that you should start singing Pitbull songs in the middle of a speech (or at all), but it means that you shouldn’t be intimidated by the profile of some of the attendees—they’re people too. Grab your friends, a smile, and your best attitude.
5. A formal outfit. I’m hesitant to say that this needs to be a dress for two reasons. Firstly because I’m really hoping someone will rock a gorgeous jumpsuit, like this one from BCBG Max Azria.
Secondly, because some readers might feel more comfortable in a classy pant suit, or perhaps a tux! Whatever makes you feel confident, I say go for it. However, it is a formal event and dressing for the occasion is an absolute must. If you’re looking for a last minute outfit, check out the new Rent The Runway store on M street for a plethora of sizes, styles, and prices.
A word of advice on style from the Dip Ball planning committee chair Annabelle Timsit, “Think Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady at the Ball. The DipBall is a time to enjoy a sense of taste and glamour that we don’t have as much of during the school year. As nice as it is to get dressed up, for me the beauty of the ball is that it’s one night of timeless elegance that makes you forget we’re all busy, stressed college students.”
While most outfits seen at the Dip Ball will be far less glitzy and glamorous than Hepburn’s famous white gown, the over-reaching aura is captured by Annabelle’s comment on “timeless elegance”.
Fun, but not required:
1. A Beautiful Blow Out. As recommended by Dip Ball chair Annabelle, a glossy blow out from Dry Bar on Wisconsin will leave your hair in pristine condition for the evening, and for only $40.
2. A Mani/Pedi. Let’s be real, no one really needs an excuse to grab some friends and head out for a pretty french manicure…or maybe silver…or red…or gold…or blue. TOO MANY OPTIONS.
3. Make up. I’m going to try to keep this brief because I could ramble on about my favorite products for ages. My recommendation for make-up:
- Less glitter and more nudes.
- Keep it gentle on the eye lids but heavy on the lashes.
- Cover up those spots but don’t over-do it on the bronzer.
- 100%, absolutely rock a red lip.
4. Jewelry. This really depends on your style of outfit. Jewelry can either compliment or overshadow a beautiful ensemble, so make sure to keep it simple and in keeping with your color scheme. Personally, I’ll be heading out to LouLou on Wisconsin to pick up inexpensive but beautiful costume jewelry.
Hopefully these tips will help guide you as prepare for a fabulous. See you there!
Image Credits:
2. clarkconstruction.com
3. galleryhip.com