For those who do not know, the formal ball emulates other formal balls. Music will range from classic waltz to contemporary (sort of like mixing slow and fast dances at a prom or something). All the music will be from anime, video games, or related sources.

The dance DOES have a dress code. Everyone who attends will be required to follow it, and those who do not meet the requirements will be turned away at the door.

Acceptable outfits:

Men:

• Tuxedos/Suits
• Japanese boy-school uniforms: This Kind
  (worn appropriately, not gangster style)
• Manly Kimonos
• Military Uniforms (Formal)
• Dress pants with dress shoes and collared shirts
• Tartans worn and equipped appropriately

* Ties are not required but are recommended when appropriate.

Women:

• Formal Gowns
• Evening Wear
• Prom Dresses
• Kimonos/Yukata
• Chinese style dresses (Cheongsam)
• Lolita Fashion
• Military Uniforms (formal)

Not Acceptable:

• Jeans
• Sports wear
• Open top shoes (for men), “Crocs” (for anyone… EVER)
• Gym shoes/ Sneakers/ Athletic shoes
• Shorts
• School-girl uniforms
• Polo-shirts or other preppy stuff you wear to get out of having to dress nice.
• Half-hearted efforts

In Short, Squall from FF8’s normal outfit would not be passable. His formal academy outfit would.

Props are discouraged unless they compliment the outfit, i.e., a sword is no good, but a cane is acceptable. A cane made to resemble a character’s sword would be awesome! Tasteful crossplay is permitted, so long as it is not clearly done for shock value or humor and reflects the self-identified gender of the wearer.

There are currently no requirements on headgear. Hats and hairstyles are at your discretion, so long as they are not overly intrusive or distasteful. Of course ballcaps, headbands, do-rags, fleece hats, dreadfalls, goggles, and other similar things are not permitted.

Creativity is encouraged, and if you think of something that isn't covered on the above lists, please ask! Remember, this is a formal ball and all outfits are required to be as such. This means respectable, dignified, subtle, and classy. Loud, tacky, showy, gaudy, or trashy outfits will not be accepted! If you have questions about outfits, please PM mikepower9 or respond in the forum page, and Michael will give you a final ruling. Also please post suggestions for music or other activities throughout the night. Last year we ended the dance by picking a king/queen. If you have a better idea for this year, we would love to hear it! I will update this post with information as it becomes necessary.

Note: Last year we opened the doors to everyone for the last hour. This was because it was a first-time event and we weren't sure how many people would be prepared for it. As it is now established, the formal criteria will be required for the entire event.

I look forward to seeing you all again this year! It was a huge success last year, and I hope that this year the turn out is even better!