Annual Ball Etiquette

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The annual ball is Preemio’s most important and prestigious event of the year. Therefore, it is essential to keep a few key points in mind both while preparing for the celebration and during the evening itself.

As the event approaches, it’s a good idea for first-year students to familiarize themselves with the etiquette of such a distinguished occasion, and for senior students to refresh their memory. This ensures the spirit of the celebration is preserved and that everyone enjoys a pleasant evening!

Dress Code

At the evening gala and cocktail event, the dress code is "tailcoat or dark suit." According to this dress code, one can wear a tailcoat, a dark suit, a formal evening gown made of celebratory material, or a full-length evening dress. Additionally, the overcoat should be chosen according to the style of the event. A tuxedo or other variations are not considered appropriate alternatives to the tailcoat according to etiquette.

Tailcoat or Dark Suit

A tailcoat includes a black coat with tails, trousers with silk side stripes, a white vest, a white shirt with a stiff upright collar, a white bow tie, simple cufflinks, and a white handkerchief placed in the chest pocket of the tailcoat, with a subtle fold.

For the trousers, white suspenders are worn, hidden beneath the waistcoat of the tailcoat. Shiny black leather shoes (patent leather) and black socks are worn with the tailcoat. The shoes are plain at the toe and lace-up.

A dark suit should be more formal than everyday wear, either single- or double-breasted, and one-, two-, or three-piece with no pattern. The color of the suit should be black, very dark gray, or deep dark blue. A pinstripe suit is not suitable for the anniversary ball.

For a dark suit, the shirt and handkerchief should be white. It is recommended to wear a tie in a subtle color, without a pattern or with a very moderate pattern. If a tie is worn, its pattern and color should be restrained. A plain black tie is typically reserved for funerals. Shoes should be black leather lace-ups.

According to etiquette, white suspenders should be worn with a dark suit. If a belt is used, its color should match the shoes, and the buckle should be understated, preferably matching the color of the belt.

There is no hurry to leave the celebration, so wristwatches are not part of formal attire. However, with a tailcoat, a subtle pocket watch is acceptable, and its chain should remain hidden.

or

Full-length evening dress
The hem of the dress should cover the wearer’s ankles.
The color and material of the dress are freely chosen, as long as the dress is appropriate and suits the elegance of the event.

If the dress does not cover the shoulders, a shawl covering the shoulders must be worn. The shawl should be worn until the hostess removes hers.

Hair should be styled and secured if the length allows.

Delicate bracelets, rings, and elegant earrings are welcome accessories with evening and formal dresses. Shoes worn with evening or formal dresses should have closed toes.

The evening bag must be strapless, matching the color of the dress or shoes, and small in size. The bag should not be placed on the floor during dinner, but kept on the wearer’s lap.

Student Organization Ribbon and Medals

It is customary to wear the ribbon of your student organization in accordance with proper etiquette. Members of Preemio ry are entitled to wear the organization’s burgundy ribbon. When paired with a tailcoat (or suit), the ribbon is worn diagonally from the right shoulder down to the left side of the torso. It is placed under the waistcoat of the tailcoat (or suit) but over any tie, with the shiny side facing up.

When wearing an evening gown or a formal dress, the ribbon can be styled as a rosette and pinned on the left side of the chest. Alternatively, with a formal dress, the ribbon may be draped over the left shoulder and wrapped around the body across to the right hip. However, the ribbon should never touch bare skin.

Merit badges are worn on the left side of the chest. With a tailcoat (or suit), they are affixed to the pocket. A pocket square is not used alongside merit badges.

The flow of the Celebration

Arrive at the event on time.
At the door to the hall, greet the hosts with a handshake.
After the handshake, once you have your drink, proceed to your assigned table. You can check your seat on the seating charts in the hall. Do not sit down yet; wait for the entire table to arrive.
It is polite to assist a guest sitting next to you if they are wearing a long evening gown.
The celebration begins when the master of ceremonies delivers the opening speech.
During speeches and award ceremonies, remain quietly seated at your place. Allow others to enjoy the evening and show respect to the invited speakers.
You should only leave the table during breaks.
Please refrain from using your phone, smartwatch, or other electronic devices during the event.

Dinner

The first drink can be consumed when the moment to raise the glass comes.
You may begin enjoying the starter and dessert only after the entire table has received their portion.
The main course can be started once all your neighbors at the table have been served.
Begin the meal with the outermost utensils.

Manners

The anniversary ball is the most important, grandest, and most valuable event of the year, and the board, teams, and other active members have put in a lot of effort to make it a success. Let’s remember to respect the event and behave accordingly to its significance.
You can request songs from the master of ceremonies during breaks, but remember that you may only request songs listed in the program.
The master of ceremonies should be treated with respect.
Any additional conversation should be reserved for mealtimes and breaks.
The guests make the celebration, so it’s important to behave in a manner worthy of the event’s dignity.
At the anniversary ball, as with all Preemio events, the principles of a safe space apply. You can review these in the Preemio Code of Conduct.