What to wear to Presidents’ Ball

By Kamden Mulder Collegian Reporter

When people think of Hillsdale College fashion, the first thing that comes to mind is a freshman decked out in business casual for their 8 a.m. philosophy lecture. The word “serve” is reserved for lunch in the dining hall, and when someone is “giving,” they’re putting money in the offering basket on Sunday morning.

Yet this year, power suits and Hillsdale social stereotypes are taking a back seat. The Met Gala is making its college debut, setting the tone for a groundbreaking President’s Ball.

The Met Gala is an annual ball held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Celebrities such as Blake Lively, Madonna, and even Elon Musk are typically in attendance. The objective: to raise money for the museum’s Costume Institute. Not only is the “Met” the most coveted social event of the year, but it is also an opportunity for the world’s elite to make their biggest fashion statements.

Anna Wintour, best known as the editor-in-chief of Vogue, is the brain behind the event. In conjunction with the ball, the Metropolitan Museum unveils its newest costume exhibit. The thesis of that exhibit is the theme for the ball.

While it may be a glorified costume party, celebrities, social media moguls, and athletes alike work with top designers to create a cohesive look that encapsulates the theme presented in the exhibit.

Past themes of note include: “The Glory of Russian Costume,” “Jacqueline Kennedy: The White House Years,” and “Camp: Notes on Fashion.”

Even with the annual theme change and ever-evolving fashion trends, the common denominator of the Met Gala is its extravagant take on typical red carpet fashion. While some celebrities follow the theme to a tee, others reject it completely (which is so “camp”), and every person who walks up the infamous museum steps is sure to take the world by storm. For President’s Ball this year, students have been given a unique opportunity to embrace their creativity. In contrast with the actual Met Gala, there is no subtheme that attendees must adhere to. Students must embody the “Met”: be innovative, eclectic, unprecedented, and wholeheartedly themselves.

How does this translate to tangible fashion advice?

First and foremost, the theme is begging everyone to break the rules, which is something Hillsdale students tend to struggle with.

President’s Ball typically calls for long, “prom style” dresses. This year, wear something short. Shy away from that black, strapless, bodycon dress.

Only own black? This is the moment to lean into accessorizing. A colored heel can completely change an outfit and a pair of earrings or a necklace that coordinates with the shoes is the perfect way to create a cohesive look.

Magenta is the Pantone Color of the Year. Not only is it a jewel tone, which compliments the winter season, but the bright pink hue will help anyone stand out in the crowd. Winter white is also a bold choice. Although white after Labor Day is typically avoided in more conservative communities, the theme invites controversy and risk taking, something a white dress would lend itself to.

For the men, suits are still an acceptable fashion choice. This is the traditional choice for male students, and although it contradicts the advice for female students, a classic suit is the way to go.

The most important piece of advice: be yourself. That is truly what a theme like this is all about. Sure, it alludes to exaggerated patterns, asymmetrical hemlines, or puffy sleeves, but confidence is the best accessory.