Taking Questions Tuesday: A Question of Dress

I so love today's question.  Here it is:

What is the appropriate thing to wear to a (Republican) gubernatorial inauguration ball in the South?

First of all, I am not the one going to an inaugural ball, though I wish I were.

Second, let me break down the facets of this question for a sec.  

The question implies:  (1) that the answer is different depending on political party, (2) that the answer is different on the elected position being inaugurated, and (3) that the answer is different depending on the part of the country in which the event takes place.  

While those are usually aspects of a tricky etiquette or fashion question to ponder, in this case, they actually don't matter.

Huh?  What am I talking about?  I am talking about how the short answer to the question is this:

Wear a long, formal, classic gown to an inaugural ball.  Period.

And here's why I say that.  Not that many elected positions get inaugural balls.  So, if you're going to the inaugural ball of the Liberty County, Texas Constable for Precinct 3, you're actually going to a barbecue.  Just a tip.  No, in all seriousness, governor and presidents get these fancy shindigs.  So, right there, if you're going to one, you're dressing up.

Because these events are so important, the ever-changing tides of fashion do not reach them.  And as these events are attended by important people who are politically involved, motivated, or influential, the ever-changing tides of fashion do not reach them, either.  As a former (but die-hard, stars and bars, baby) DC native, I can attest -- the real political world isn't trendy.  It is classic, if a bit frumpy.  Be forewarned.

As for the part of the country where the event is held, I suppose that does factor in a bit.  As in, I would tend more toward a black dress on the East Coast, and would feel more comfortable choosing a brighter color in California or the South.  But other than that, it's really pretty equal across the board.

That said, I happen to know that this question has been posed by a dark haired beauty, so I would recommend these dresses for her (or something like them).  I also know that she's just finished graduate school and is on, shall we say, a budget.  So, all of my choices are less than $200!

So, I think this one is actually my favorite.  I love the wrap look and the fact that your cute shoes will pop out, even though the dress is (appropriately) long.  

Adrianna Papell Faux Wrap Chiffon Gown, $158, Nordstrom

Here is the classic black strapless gown, which will serve you well for future charity events, other balls, evening weddings, etc.

JS Boutique Strapless Stretch Satin Gown with Back Bow, $158, Nordstrom

This is the black gown with personality, as in, lace, a nice deep V (very flattering) and a ruffled skirt.  I love this with a chignon.

Adrianna Papell Lace & Chiffon Gown, $188, Nordstrom

And finally, to make sure that I provide a *really* colorful option, a sexy red one-shoulder dress that is still proper enough to wear to a ball.  I would choose the other three over this one, but in the event that our guest feels like Going For It, here's an option.

JS Boutique Beaded One Shoulder Jersey Gown, $158, Nordstrom

I'm not going to get all Polyvore on you and create outfits, because, well, I have enough trouble doing that for myself.  (Case in point, I like to pin entire outfits that are already assembled.  They're like cheat sheets.)

So, my dear ball attendee and dear readers, what do you think?  Which dress would you choose?  Would you be excited or nervous to attend a gubernatorial ball?

Cheers, I say,