Starlight Ball

The Starlight 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. Although Ball gowns and Tuxedos are encouraged, a minimum of semi-formal attire is all that is strictly required. Informal clothing such as T-shirts, jeans, sandals, sneakers, flip-flops, boots, platforms flannel, etc. 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. We do our best to be versed in a wide variety of formal attire but we are not versed in all types of traditional dress. If you plan on wearing cultural or period formal wear that we may not be familiar with, please send us an email beforehand or bring a reference picture with you to the event to avoid confusion at the door.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact us! We would rather answer 20 questions than turn one person away.

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. Sneakers, boots, or sandals will not be allowed. Dress hems should be at least knee length and individuals should avoid non-formal fabrics such as denim, leather and vinyl. While cotton is allowed more formal fabrics such as satin or chiffon are encouraged. Those who do not wish to wear a dress may come dressed in a woman's pant suit.

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, boots or platforms shoes will not be allowed.

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, Ukitake Juushiro's captains uniform from bleach

Informal:Ichigo's kimono from Bleach, Katara's "Kimono" from Avatar

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 Cosplay Attire: Cosplayers are certainly welcome at the ball! However we ask you please remember that it is a formal dance event first and foremost, and the dress code 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. Please see our Formal Attire Inspiration Guide for more information and inspiration on formalizing your cosplay!