Type of dress needed for a masked ball?

[Hulababy]

I don't think my long straight black dress is (a) going to fit without being very tight and (b) now really teh right style.

I have two other dresses:

1. calf length deep red prom dress

1. calf length black dress - like a very fine material over an oyster coloured layer beneath

Or I could look at getting a new dress but don't want to spend a fortune on one.

I am only 5 foot and carrying a bit too much weight at the moment. Have small chest but biger round tummy/hips/thighs.

Not bought mask yet so colour choices not a problem.

THis is the red dress I have

think either of those would be fine. Masked ball suggests "elegant" to me

Trouble with full length is getting one to fit. There are very few dresses in these ranges that fit me at just 5 foot. Have tried almost every year for the balls I go too, hence almost all my dresses have been calf length. And so many are not suitable for shortening.

Renting out for same reason - have never been able to because of the length issue.

Definitely full length for a ball, might be able to get away with something shorter in the summer but not now.

I'd rent one, it'll make you feel special, especially if you don't normally get a reason to wear the whole shebang.

Ah x post.

I like this but not full length.

I refuse to spend hundreds on a dress as I relly don't wear them over and over, I prefer new ones!

And renting is definitely out - tried it before and no go.

Where can I get full length in petite length, without paying over the odds?

It won't be especially formal as it is the school ball rather than a corporate event.

Not sure this place looks alright, and they have between 50-70% off their winter stock.

No special offers on the website though. I do know the shop though as been before - expensive normally I believe. And not normally petite sizing. It is the length that is the issue.

How about this you could accessorise it really nicely for that price as well.

yes minkvelvet is right
are you sure it's a real "ball"?

some can be what used to be called dinner dances

and unless the music is to be waltzes etc you will feel funny in a long dress

something beautiful and gorgeous and cocktailly but long is not de rigeur

it's nice to feel you're going to a ball though

the word "ball" basically means you can make yourself look as gorgeous as possible

(but I still wouldn't go long)

and why don't you get a spray tan the day before.. i know it sounds a bit "my dear" but honestly it's great with the bare shoulders and arms, and you can wear toe-less (?) shoes without tights

a bit expensive but stunning [http://www.monsoon.co.uk/invt/15222803 monsoon petite]]

Thanks all.

Yes, I agree, most balls are not "real balls" as such. We go to at least 2 or 3 a year, normally more, via DH's wok, and I guess they are more dinner and dancing rather than a traditional formal ball. The ball is just its formal name I guess.

And I agree re the mask. I am definitely getting one on a stick as I know it will be a pain after a few minutes!

And I got a dress today It is exactly the same colour as my other deep red.wine coloured prom dress. But this is floor length and it feels lovely on.

this one I got the bag to match too.

"nless the music is to be waltzes etc you will feel funny in a long dress
"

TBH I don't agree, having been to these things plenty of times before. Have been with lots of people - young and old - in long dresses and all have felt very comfortable. I only have had calf length before simply as normally can't get a long dress the right length. I have worn long in the past when had a couple of dresses made for me and loved the feeling.

hula have fun it's a great dress! x