I'm going to my first ball in a couple weeks and I found a lovely, simple classy red gown, however it does have a slight train in the back. Will this pose a problem during the night?
First off, congratulations! Balls are so wonderful and exciting. I'm sure you're going to have a fantastic time. Your red dress sounds lovely and I admire you for keeping it classy. It will perfectly match the red stripe in your Marine's trousers. I think a shorter train will be alright. But remember to always be very concious of it. You will be part of a busy cocktail hour and dance floor. Others may not be very aware of their steps so don't be too surprised if you feel a slight tug sometime during the evening. But really, I do think you'll be just fine. Congrats again and have a beautiful, fun night!
I completely understand your desire to be comfortable, especially as the evening is long and includes dancing. However, I personally do not think flats are the best choice for the Ball. It is very formal and you will notice that all the women will be wearing a formal evening shoe. That being said, I don't think they have to be 4-inch heels. If you have some 2 inch or even kitten heels I think that would be preferable to flats. On the plus side, a large portion of the evening will include sitting so you will find some relief there. And the minute you walk out the door, throw on some comfy shoes! In short, I think you actually might be more comfortable wearing an evening shoe on the inside, even if its uncomfortable on the outside. Enjoy your big day and best wishes!
How late is too late to hold a Marine Corps Birthday Dinner? We have a small group of 20-25 former Marines who hold an annual dinner in Washington where we invite active duty Marines to join us, and it is scheduled for Nov 7 this year, and several of our group have proposed waiting until Nov 20 or 21 because a former attendee will be visiting from overseas those days. Is that too late to hold a Birthday celebration to which we invite active duty Marines? Many thanks for your guidance, and Semper Fi.
First, I'd like to say I think this is such a wonderful thing that you do. It's always so great to hear that even after retirement former military members and spouses work to uphold tradition and honor those still in service. I thought a while about your question and considered a few different aspects, but here's my take on it. There are many regiments that hold balls the weekend before the 10th. So 10 days after is really not too big of a leap in my mind. As long as you're sticking to November I think you're safe. But wait...there's more! You mentioned you have active duty Marines joining you. It might actually be a good thing to plan it for the 20/21 as that will give them a little time between celebrations (I like to think of it as getting two birthdays in one month...who wouldn't love that?). They can first concentrate on the official ball and then still have something to look forward to and concentrate on a few days later. Also, I think it would be quite an honor to your overseas guest to wait for him. I'm sure he very much enjoyed your dinners in the past and would love to be part of one again. And if other members are already on board with the idea, then its smooth sailing. So in short...no, it is not too late at all in my opinion, especially when you work in the other factors you have going. Either choice you make, I wish you a wonderful dinner celebration. I'm sure it will be fantastic no matter what. Semper Fi!
First off...Wow! How lucky are you to have such an amazing and talented friend. That is a super nice offer and your one of a kind dress will no doubt look gorgeous (plus there is no chance of wearing the same dress as someone else, which does happen!). Okay so colors. By far, the most popular dress color is red (likely due to ladies trying to match the red stripe on your Marines dress blue pants). Navy and black are the two other most noted colors on the deck. Now all three of these do look great, so if you decide on one don't be discouraged that others will likely choose them too. You're going to look spectacular no matter what. If you're open to more colors I'd say a safe bet is a darker color tone as they tend to be more formal in appearance. Maybe a dark purple or deep emerald green. I only caution the lighter colors as they tend to come off as a bit prom-like unless the dress is cut in a very mature fashion. No white period (no wedding dress doubles lol). No matter what though, with a custom made, tailored dress I'm sure you'll be ravishing. Hope this helps and best of luck at your ball!
Thank you for replying to my friend is a seamstress. I do have another question about shoes. I have a disease that has made my feet completely numb and it affects my balance. I have been known to fall. The last thing I want to do is embarrass my husband. Would a shorter heal be ok to wear.
There are many times in life that fashion trumps both comfort and reason...this is not one of those times. In this case, by all means, go for the kitten heel! As I'm guessing you've discovered their are many beautiful little heels out there that would be very appropriate. And since your going to be on your feet all night I think it's completely fine to wear something that fits your needs for the long term. It's going to be a blast!
Hi Lori, thanks for your question! There's no minimum age to attend the ball that I've ever heard of. Some Marines even choose to bring their children on occasion. In terms of the drinking age, it's still 21 through
Well at 17 you will be in like company! The majority of the Corps is made up of enlisted Marines, many of which tend to be on the younger side as you will clearly notice when you attend the ball. There are loads of 18 and 19 year olds, several of which likely have dates 17 and up. I wish you the best of luck and hope you have a wonderful time!
I have a black dress that has beads all over . It's straight and beautiful. Do you think the beads would be too much? Also am I to wear black gloves with this?
Thanks for your question! Long and black sounds like a very classy look. Im trying to picture the beads in my head though...are they black as well? Or something a little more silvery? Over the years I've noticed sequins becoming more prevalent and lots of girls use the popular long prom dresses with beading (at least the younger set do, ha). Gloves are not necessary and I've observed few people wearing them to be honest (the occasional one or two per ball). However, if your dress is strapless and you are residing somewhere that can be cooler in November you might consider a wrap.
Hello, My son just asked us to go to his Marine Ball in November, as parents , does my husband need to wear a tux ? , what is the edtiquette of Marine parents ? Please help feeling stressed, don't have much time to shop !!
Thank you for your question! Not many parents are asked to the Marine Corps ball so you should feel quite honored . This is a wonderful event to share with your son and I'm sure it will leave some great memories. Your husband does not need to wear a tux. A simple suit will do just fine. Female marines often bring non-military dates and they typically wear a black suit. The etiquette for a Marine parent follows the same line as dates for the most part. I think as a parent you truly want to brag about your child (not too obviously or purposefully of course, ha) and maybe want to tell some cute stories. I'd just suggest holding back on that a little. He's considered a grown man, and a tough one at that, so even though you'll always think of him as your little boy (which he is!) my only advice is to be respectful of his current position and his commanding officers and senior enlisted fellows. Other than that I think you're going to be great. You clearly care a lot about your son and want to support him and make a good impression so there's no need to stress. It's a really fun night and a fantastic way to meet your sons friends and coworkers and get a feel for the Corps. Just be ready to get "mam-ed" all night long, lol. Have a great time with your family and let me know how it goes!
My boyfriend and I are both Marines and I have herard that if we go to the USMC Ball together one of us doesn't have to be in uniform. Is there any truth to that?
Thank you for your question! I apologize for the delay in response. Is it your boyfriends ball, yours, or is it a shared ball (do you both work for the unit that is hosting the ball?) I believe if it's your ball, or a shared ball, you have to remain in uniform for the duration of the event (because if you could change it would mean all the Marines in your unit could also change). However, if you are attending your boyfriends ball I think you can go out of uniform and wear a gown. The only exception I've ever seen to this is a Marine who was very pregnant and wore a gown because her dress uniform did not fit at all. Just to be 100% sure though I'd suggest checking with someone in your command you feel comfortable talking to and could give you an official answer. I can certainly see why you would like to wear a gown and enjoy the ball all dolled up. It's definitely a perk for female spouses. I hope this response helped a bit. Have a wonderful ball! P.S. If you find a definite answer within your command please feel free to post it here for others who might be wondering the same thing.
My question is that my boyfriend has asked me to the Marine ball the only thing though is that he will be in MOS training at fort Lejeune NC he said that he should get a 96 hour pass does that usually happen? How do passes usually work for people in training? and just a quick clarification I would meet him at the ball? What are the regulations and what's acceptable as PDA is concerned? I apologize for all the questions I just don't want to embarrass my Marine if I can help it
Hello and thank you for your question! As you will come to learn in the Corps things can be a bit washy-washy and leave is no exception. Until there is an actual leave order handed down by the command for those in MOS training it's not official, just a rumor. From what I understand those in MOS training DO usually get to attend the ball, although whether it's a full 96 is up to the command. The one exception is the Infantry Training, which usually rolls to its own beat and may or may not give leave for a ball event. I would assume you two might stay in one of the hotels on or around Camp ( the Army has Forts) Lejune so you would probably leave together from the hotel and arrive at the ball together. As far as PDA goes, keep it modest. It is technically a work function. When you go you'll generally observe couples stay close to one another but are not holding hands, kissing, etc. Dancing is another story but for meet and greet, pictures, and ceremony it's all very formal. I don't think you'll embarrass anyone and I'm sure you're going to have a great time. Here's to a memorable evening! Cheers :)
After honorable discharge can you still attend the Ball if it's being held locally in my city? My fiancé would like to attend one she's heard so many great stories.
Thanks for your question! You can in fact attend a ball after an honorable discharge. There are two ways to go about it as you will need to procure tickets. Option 1: If you already know someone at the command they can buy the tickets for you. Option 2: You can contact the admin shop or local Sgt Maj/1st Sgt and ask to buy tickets. Unless there are extenuating circumstances you shouldn't have any trouble. And of course, you can still wear dress blues. Good luck and Semper Fi!
Hello, just a question for you. I'm 32 weeks pregnant and in November is when I'm expected to actually give birth. Is there anyway my husband could get out of driving to the Marine Corp ball. I would hate to have to have our child and him not be here for it just bc of a ball. I'm trying to figure away for people to understand that I'll need him here with me as I'm pretty much on bed rest and I'm not allowed to drive. Plus let's face it, what pregnant women want to be but in a small dress when he belly can't fit in anything. Thanks
Hello was wondering if there was anyway my husband could get out of actually going to the ball. We are expecting our first baby on the 8th of November but I was told that it would be the 10th they would induce me. I've been having false labor pains. Just don't want him being 2 hours away from bc I could literally go at any moment I've been told. Is there something we could do in order for him to stay, that way I don't have to do it all on my own. We have one car, and he's never driven more Than an hour and has never been on the highway. I can't go because I'm on bed rest and I dont want to be away from him when our son is almost here
I’m going to the marine corps ball this year in NC and it will be my first time going with a female date, my girlfriend Courtney. She wants to get a picture of us kissing. Is that allowed in uniform for one picture?
I'm going to my first ball in a couple weeks and I found a lovely, simple classy red gown, however it does have a slight train in the back. Will this pose a problem during the night?
ReplyDeleteFirst off, congratulations! Balls are so wonderful and exciting. I'm sure you're going to have a fantastic time.
DeleteYour red dress sounds lovely and I admire you for keeping it classy. It will perfectly match the red stripe in your Marine's trousers.
I think a shorter train will be alright. But remember to always be very concious of it. You will be part of a busy cocktail hour and dance floor. Others may not be very aware of their steps so don't be too surprised if you feel a slight tug sometime during the evening. But really, I do think you'll be just fine. Congrats again and have a beautiful, fun night!
Is it necessary to wear heels as a female date? I would prefer to be comfortable throughout the night and wear close toe flats. Is this acceptable?
ReplyDeleteI completely understand your desire to be comfortable, especially as the evening is long and includes dancing. However, I personally do not think flats are the best choice for the Ball. It is very formal and you will notice that all the women will be wearing a formal evening shoe. That being said, I don't think they have to be 4-inch heels. If you have some 2 inch or even kitten heels I think that would be preferable to flats. On the plus side, a large portion of the evening will include sitting so you will find some relief there. And the minute you walk out the door, throw on some comfy shoes! In short, I think you actually might be more comfortable wearing an evening shoe on the inside, even if its uncomfortable on the outside. Enjoy your big day and best wishes!
DeleteHow late is too late to hold a Marine Corps Birthday Dinner? We have a small group of 20-25 former Marines who hold an annual dinner in Washington where we invite active duty Marines to join us, and it is scheduled for Nov 7 this year, and several of our group have proposed waiting until Nov 20 or 21 because a former attendee will be visiting from overseas those days. Is that too late to hold a Birthday celebration to which we invite active duty Marines? Many thanks for your guidance, and Semper Fi.
ReplyDeleteFirst, I'd like to say I think this is such a wonderful thing that you do. It's always so great to hear that even after retirement former military members and spouses work to uphold tradition and honor those still in service. I thought a while about your question and considered a few different aspects, but here's my take on it. There are many regiments that hold balls the weekend before the 10th. So 10 days after is really not too big of a leap in my mind. As long as you're sticking to November I think you're safe. But wait...there's more! You mentioned you have active duty Marines joining you. It might actually be a good thing to plan it for the 20/21 as that will give them a little time between celebrations (I like to think of it as getting two birthdays in one month...who wouldn't love that?). They can first concentrate on the official ball and then still have something to look forward to and concentrate on a few days later. Also, I think it would be quite an honor to your overseas guest to wait for him. I'm sure he very much enjoyed your dinners in the past and would love to be part of one again. And if other members are already on board with the idea, then its smooth sailing. So in short...no, it is not too late at all in my opinion, especially when you work in the other factors you have going. Either choice you make, I wish you a wonderful dinner celebration. I'm sure it will be fantastic no matter what. Semper Fi!
ReplyDeleteThat's really helpful -- we're going ahead with the later date. Thanks again and Semper Fi!
DeleteI have a wonderful friend who is a seamstress and wants to make my dress for me. What colors are appropriate for the dress.
ReplyDeleteFirst off...Wow! How lucky are you to have such an amazing and talented friend. That is a super nice offer and your one of a kind dress will no doubt look gorgeous (plus there is no chance of wearing the same dress as someone else, which does happen!). Okay so colors. By far, the most popular dress color is red (likely due to ladies trying to match the red stripe on your Marines dress blue pants). Navy and black are the two other most noted colors on the deck. Now all three of these do look great, so if you decide on one don't be discouraged that others will likely choose them too. You're going to look spectacular no matter what. If you're open to more colors I'd say a safe bet is a darker color tone as they tend to be more formal in appearance. Maybe a dark purple or deep emerald green. I only caution the lighter colors as they tend to come off as a bit prom-like unless the dress is cut in a very mature fashion. No white period (no wedding dress doubles lol). No matter what though, with a custom made, tailored dress I'm sure you'll be ravishing. Hope this helps and best of luck at your ball!
ReplyDeleteThank you for replying to my friend is a seamstress. I do have another question about shoes. I have a disease that has made my feet completely numb and it affects my balance. I have been known to fall. The last thing I want to do is embarrass my husband. Would a shorter heal be ok to wear.
ReplyDeleteThere are many times in life that fashion trumps both comfort and reason...this is not one of those times. In this case, by all means, go for the kitten heel! As I'm guessing you've discovered their are many beautiful little heels out there that would be very appropriate. And since your going to be on your feet all night I think it's completely fine to wear something that fits your needs for the long term. It's going to be a blast!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for answering my questions. You have eased my nervousness. I appreciate it very much and you are just awesome.
DeleteGlad I could help! And thank you! :D
ReplyDeleteHow old do you have to be to attend the marine corps ball?
ReplyDeleteHi Lori, thanks for your question! There's no minimum age to attend the ball that I've ever heard of. Some Marines even choose to bring their children on occasion. In terms of the drinking age, it's still 21 through
ReplyDeleteOkay, great thank you! So much :) my boyfriend asked me to attend it with him and I'm 17 an didn't know If there was a age requirement.
ReplyDeleteWell at 17 you will be in like company! The majority of the Corps is made up of enlisted Marines, many of which tend to be on the younger side as you will clearly notice when you attend the ball. There are loads of 18 and 19 year olds, several of which likely have dates 17 and up. I wish you the best of luck and hope you have a wonderful time!
ReplyDeleteI have a black dress that has beads all over . It's straight and beautiful. Do you think the beads would be too much? Also am I to wear black gloves with this?
ReplyDeleteThanks for your question! Long and black sounds like a very classy look. Im trying to picture the beads in my head though...are they black as well? Or something a little more silvery? Over the years I've noticed sequins becoming more prevalent and lots of girls use the popular long prom dresses with beading (at least the younger set do, ha). Gloves are not necessary and I've observed few people wearing them to be honest (the occasional one or two per ball). However, if your dress is strapless and you are residing somewhere that can be cooler in November you might consider a wrap.
ReplyDeleteHello, My son just asked us to go to his Marine Ball in November, as parents , does my husband need to wear a tux ? , what is the edtiquette of Marine parents ? Please help feeling stressed, don't have much time to shop !!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your question! Not many parents are asked to the Marine Corps ball so you should feel quite honored . This is a wonderful event to share with your son and I'm sure it will leave some great memories. Your husband does not need to wear a tux. A simple suit will do just fine. Female marines often bring non-military dates and they typically wear a black suit. The etiquette for a Marine parent follows the same line as dates for the most part. I think as a parent you truly want to brag about your child (not too obviously or purposefully of course, ha) and maybe want to tell some cute stories. I'd just suggest holding back on that a little. He's considered a grown man, and a tough one at that, so even though you'll always think of him as your little boy (which he is!) my only advice is to be respectful of his current position and his commanding officers and senior enlisted fellows. Other than that I think you're going to be great. You clearly care a lot about your son and want to support him and make a good impression so there's no need to stress. It's a really fun night and a fantastic way to meet your sons friends and coworkers and get a feel for the Corps. Just be ready to get "mam-ed" all night long, lol. Have a great time with your family and let me know how it goes!
DeleteMy boyfriend and I are both Marines and I have herard that if we go to the USMC Ball together one of us doesn't have to be in uniform. Is there any truth to that?
ReplyDeleteWell I'm no expert; but I've heard many times that you're allowed to change into a formal gown after the ceremony as a female Marine.
DeleteThank you for your question! I apologize for the delay in response. Is it your boyfriends ball, yours, or is it a shared ball (do you both work for the unit that is hosting the ball?) I believe if it's your ball, or a shared ball, you have to remain in uniform for the duration of the event (because if you could change it would mean all the Marines in your unit could also change). However, if you are attending your boyfriends ball I think you can go out of uniform and wear a gown. The only exception I've ever seen to this is a Marine who was very pregnant and wore a gown because her dress uniform did not fit at all. Just to be 100% sure though I'd suggest checking with someone in your command you feel comfortable talking to and could give you an official answer. I can certainly see why you would like to wear a gown and enjoy the ball all dolled up. It's definitely a perk for female spouses. I hope this response helped a bit. Have a wonderful ball!
ReplyDeleteP.S. If you find a definite answer within your command please feel free to post it here for others who might be wondering the same thing.
My question is that my boyfriend has asked me to the Marine ball the only thing though is that he will be in MOS training at fort Lejeune NC he said that he should get a 96 hour pass does that usually happen? How do passes usually work for people in training? and just a quick clarification I would meet him at the ball? What are the regulations and what's acceptable as PDA is concerned? I apologize for all the questions I just don't want to embarrass my Marine if I can help it
ReplyDeleteHello and thank you for your question! As you will come to learn in the Corps things can be a bit washy-washy and leave is no exception. Until there is an actual leave order handed down by the command for those in MOS training it's not official, just a rumor. From what I understand those in MOS training DO usually get to attend the ball, although whether it's a full 96 is up to the command. The one exception is the Infantry Training, which usually rolls to its own beat and may or may not give leave for a ball event. I would assume you two might stay in one of the hotels on or around Camp ( the Army has Forts) Lejune so you would probably leave together from the hotel and arrive at the ball together. As far as PDA goes, keep it modest. It is technically a work function. When you go you'll generally observe couples stay close to one another but are not holding hands, kissing, etc. Dancing is another story but for meet and greet, pictures, and ceremony it's all very formal. I don't think you'll embarrass anyone and I'm sure you're going to have a great time. Here's to a memorable evening! Cheers :)
ReplyDeletecan you attend after being kicked out
ReplyDeleteAfter honorable discharge can you still attend the Ball if it's being held locally in my city? My fiancé would like to attend one she's heard so many great stories.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your question! You can in fact attend a ball after an honorable discharge. There are two ways to go about it as you will need to procure tickets. Option 1: If you already know someone at the command they can buy the tickets for you. Option 2: You can contact the admin shop or local Sgt Maj/1st Sgt and ask to buy tickets. Unless there are extenuating circumstances you shouldn't have any trouble. And of course, you can still wear dress blues. Good luck and Semper Fi!
DeleteAre recruits able to go to the Birthday Ball?
ReplyDeleteAre Honorable discharged able to attend the Marine Corps ball?
ReplyDeleteHello, just a question for you. I'm 32 weeks pregnant and in November is when I'm expected to actually give birth. Is there anyway my husband could get out of driving to the Marine Corp ball. I would hate to have to have our child and him not be here for it just bc of a ball. I'm trying to figure away for people to understand that I'll need him here with me as I'm pretty much on bed rest and I'm not allowed to drive. Plus let's face it, what pregnant women want to be but in a small dress when he belly can't fit in anything. Thanks
ReplyDeleteHello was wondering if there was anyway my husband could get out of actually going to the ball. We are expecting our first baby on the 8th of November but I was told that it would be the 10th they would induce me. I've been having false labor pains. Just don't want him being 2 hours away from bc I could literally go at any moment I've been told. Is there something we could do in order for him to stay, that way I don't have to do it all on my own. We have one car, and he's never driven more Than an hour and has never been on the highway. I can't go because I'm on bed rest and I dont want to be away from him when our son is almost here
ReplyDeletehow many guests can a Marine invite to the Marine Corps ball?
ReplyDeleteI’m going to the marine corps ball this year in NC and it will be my first time going with a female date, my girlfriend Courtney. She wants to get a picture of us kissing. Is that allowed in uniform for one picture?
ReplyDelete