Medallion Ball Dress Requirements

The Medallion Ball celebrates a long-standing tradition of grace, modesty, and formality. To honor this, all Medallion Candidates must follow the official dress code outlined below.

The Ball Dress

A floor-length formal dress is required for the Medallion Ball.

The dress must be pure white—not off-white or ivory.

To confirm the color, hold a blank sheet of white paper next to the fabric. If the dress appears any shade other than pure white, it is not permitted. No exceptions.

Most candidates purchase their gowns from a dress shop. Please note:

  • Ordering and alterations can take several weeks or even months.

  • The dress must be ready for program photographs taken between June 1 and August 15.

  • The photo can be taken before the dress is hemmed, if necessary—please inform the dress shop.

  • Photographs will not be accepted for the Medallion Ball program unless the formal dress code is followed.

Unacceptable Dress Styles

The following styles are not permitted:

  • Halter, backless, strapless, off-the-shoulder, or spaghetti-strap dresses

  • Dresses without shoulder straps at least two inches (or two finger-widths) wide

  • Dresses with trains (trains must be removed or modestly under-bustled by a professional seamstress)

  • Dresses with low or revealing necklines — cleavage may not be exposed

  • Evening pants or jumpsuits

A strapless dress may be purchased only if regulation straps (minimum two inches wide) are professionally added.

Embellishments

  • Clear crystals and pure white pearl beading are allowed if modest and understated.

  • Colored accents are not permitted — this includes silver, gold, or colored beads, iridescent (“rainbow”) crystals, colored threads, or belts.

  • Ivory or off-white pearls are not acceptable, as they differ from pure white.

Slips, Crinolines & Petticoats

Because professional stage lighting will be used, a slip or crinoline petticoat is strongly recommended. A bridal slip or crinoline will also enhance the dress’s silhouette beautifully.

Shoes

  • Shoes must be pure white (not off-white).

  • Choose a style that is comfortable for walking and dancing.

  • Acceptable styles include pumps, peep-toes, sling-backs, ballet flats, sandals, or flip-flops — provided they are pure white.

Gloves

White formal gloves are required.

They should complement the dress sleeve length and be made of solid fabric without embellishments.

Lace or net gloves are not permitted.

Jewelry & Accessories

  • Small, simple earrings are acceptable.

  • Pearls or a delicate chain necklace may be worn.

  • Avoid oversized or excessive jewelry.

    Please remember: the Joan of Arc Medallion will be placed on a ribbon necklace during the ceremony.

Unacceptable Accessories

  • Visible body piercings (nose, lip, tongue, brow, cartilage, etc.) — not permitted. No exceptions.

  • Hair adornments of any kind — including clips, ribbons, or decorative pins — are not allowed.

Escort Attire

Escorts wear white tie and tails in keeping with the formal and traditional nature of the Medallion Ball.

Full details about escort attire and presentation protocol are reviewed during in-person meetings.

Questions?

For clarification or approval of a specific dress style, please contact the Credentials Committee.

Thank you for respecting the traditions and standards of the Medallion Ball and St. Lucy’s Auxiliary to the Blind.