The Cerulean Ball is a formal occasion and whether you decide to come as Princess Serenity or in your best kimono, you must dress in a manner befitting the occasion. Ball gowns and Tuxedoes while not required, are encouraged! Informal clothing such as T-shirts, jeans, sandals, sneakers, flip-flops, flannel, or other such casual attire will not be permitted. Anime Boston staff reserve the right to refuse admittance to attendees deemed inappropriately dressed, at their own discretion.

Below is a guideline for what is considered appropriate attire for the Ball. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact us! We would rather answer 20 questions than turn one person away.

Formal Eastern Attire
Those wearing formal attire from Japan or other eastern countries should be clothed neatly and in full attire. For gentlemen this means the full Haori-Hakama, for women a formal Kimono such as the Furisode or Kurotomesode.

Formal Kimono: Aoi Sakuraba's kimono from Ai Yori Aoshi
Informal: Ichigo's kimono from Bleach

Footwear exception: Those dressed in formal Japanese clothing may wear zori sandals with tabi socks for footwear. Geta sandals are difficult to dance in and thus not recommended. All other forms of sandals are not suitable for this event.

Formal Western Attire

Female
Those dressing in female formal wear (regardless of their own gender) should wear at least semi-formal level dresses and appropriate dress shoes such as heels or dress flats. Skirts should be at least knee length and individuals should avoid non-formal fabrics such as cotton, denim, leather and vinyl.

Male
Those wearing male attire should be neatly dressed in at minimum a button down shirt, slacks, dark colored jacket or blazer and tie. Suits and tuxedos are encouraged. Men are expected to wear formal shoes such as dress shoes or loafers. Sneakers or boots will not be allowed.

Formal Cosplay Attire While costumes are not required at the Cherry Blossom Ball, they are certainly encouraged. However please remember when deciding to cosplay to the Ball that the dress code comes first and must still be adhered to. Cosplay for men and women should resemble formal wear of the non-costume variety. For example: long gowns, formal military attire, etc. School uniforms, armor, chains, and excessive belts are all considered informal. Large props, wings, weapons, or anything that impairs your field of vision will not be allowed in the event as they are an impediment on the dance floor and may be broken or harm others. Anime Boston reserves the right to ask for the removal of costume portions or props that are problematic.

Think to yourself "what would this character wear to a formal event"? For a very good formal cosplay reference please go here (note this is just a reference, not all examples meet our dress code)

Not Suitable	Suitable Conversion
Edward Elric from Full Metal Alchemist	Replace the red coat with a red blazer, the shirt with a black button down, and add a tie with the alchemist symbol printed on it.
Asuka's yellow sundress from Neon Genesis Evangelion	Make the dress out of satin or another formal fabric (not cotton). Pair with dress shoes and matching jewelry.
Sakura Haruno from Naruto	Convert her red dress into a floor length china doll dress without black leggings. Replace the Naruto head band with a formal satin head band. Pair with appropriate accessories.
Alucard from Hellsing	Remove hat, replace boots with dress shoes.