I do not intend for this to be as ostentatious as that title sounds, but gala season is pretty huge in D.C. Are most of the attendees in the upper class (or social climbers like myself)? Yes. Does that mean that they’re super exclusive? Absolutely not. If you’re new to D.C. or even if you’re coming to visit, going to a charity gala is definitely a worthwhile way to spend your time and money.
Here, I’ll answer some FAQs for gala season so you can make the most of it!
What do galas cost?
Well, it totally depends. Plan on spending between $150-$500 per person. This often will include dinner and an open bar, but not always. Note that if you’re looking to party hardy, the $500/ticket galas might not be for you. Since the price point is higher, it’ll likely be a very formal and decadent evening. Sure, there’ll be an open bar, but there will also be a stuffier environment.
What should I wear?
I can’t stress this enough: READ THE ATTIRE ON THE EVENT. Nothing, and I mean nothing is more of a faux pas than showing up to a black tie event in a cocktail dress. If the attire is black tie, wear a floor-length gown and your guy should be in a tux. If the attire is white tie (which are rare, even in D.C. because they’re so formal), you need to be wearing a floor-length gown and gloves, and you guy needs to wear a tux with tails. When it says cocktail attire, knee length dresses are fine, as are suits for the guys.
Obviously, most people don’t have a stockpile of gowns in their closet, so things like Rent the Runway are great for this. Another option is to check out Nordstrom Rack. The dress in the picture above was a Rack find. It’s Adriana Papell and cost me all of $40. Yeah. Granted, it’s missing some beads, but it’s not at all noticeable!
Another obvious option, of course, is former bridesmaids dresses. Take it from a pro…
… and this isn’t even all of them.
As far as makeup and hair goes, it’s usually a pretty good idea to go dramatic on both fronts. Either pay for someone to do your hair, or practice with some YouTube tutorials ahead of time. This lipstick is a great example of dramatic makeup, as is this highlight stick (loooove).
What are some good galas to go to?
Up until this year, I’ve worked in private schools, which have their own galas, so that was always one for me. Now that that’s no longer the case for me, I’m looking to add one to my schedule. If you have friends who are teachers at a private school, chances are they have to go to their school’s gala. Volunteer to tag along, donate some cash to their workplace, and have a blast. Most of them are quite fun.
If this is not an option for you, here are some galas that look great this year!
CCSE: I love this gala because the cause (accessible education in Catholic schools) is near and dear to my heart.
Sweethearts and Patriots: I’ve never actually gone to this one, but it comes highly recommended. Plus it’s for a great cause!
Cystic Fibrosis Brewers Ball: This looks amazing, and the charity is near and dear to my heart. A lot of you don’t know this, but my dad lost five siblings to CF, and I knew two of them. My Uncle Jimmy died at 33, which is the age I’m at now, so I especially want to get involved with the CF Foundation this year.
Why are galas worth going to?
Well, they’re always going to support to non-profit, so that’s always a plus. Not only that, but the people you tend to meet at galas are often valuable contacts. Network away, strike up conversations and exchange information. You never, ever know who knows people or who you can help with connections!
Anything else?
Have a blast and act like you belong there!