Gala Attire Explained: What to Never Wear to a Gala

Gala Attire Explained: What to Never Wear to a Gala

March 13, 2023
By Katerina Katakalides

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What is a Gala?

A gala is an extravagant, formal event that typically features a form of entertainment. Various types of galas include black-tie galas and charity galas. You’ve probably heard of the most famous gala: the Met Gala.

Many people assume that galas are only held for the rich and famous of society. However, this couldn't be further than the truth! While some galas, such as the Met Gala, are very exclusive events, there are many galas open to the public. Charity Galas are held to raise donations and awareness for various non-profit organizations and charities.

What do you Wear to a Gala? What is Gala Attire?

Galas are very formal events, so your attire should match! Floor-length evening gowns, and tuxedos are some of the most popular types of gala attire. You won’t have to worry about being “too fancy” at a gala, so it’s time to start shopping for something eye-catching and extravagant!

Gala attire means something different depending on the type of gala you’re attending. When most people think of a gala, they think of the iconic Met Gala. This extremely exclusive event is an annual fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City. Most people can agree that the Met Gala is the world’s most prestigious fashion event, so it’s nearly impossible to receive an invitation unless you’re a famous celebrity. As you can imagine, this means that Met Gala attire is the most extravagant, eye-catching, and expensive attire you’ll see! However, this doesn’t mean you’ll need to dress up like Taylor Swift when attending a charity gala.

While charity galas are still very formal events, you won’t be expected to wear something over-the-top like celebrities do across the red carpet. When choosing your outfit for a charity gala, you’ll want to stick to floor-length dresses and evening gowns. However, this doesn’t mean you should buy a simple prom dress!

Gala Attire for Females

There are a few different options when it comes to gala attire for females. Some of the most popular options include evening gowns, formal jumpsuits, and floor-length dresses. You can also add various accessories, such as jewelry, gloves, and high heels.

Attending a gala is your opportunity to put your best fashion forward. This means you can go all out with your attire! Women should avoid wearing casual cocktail dresses or informal jumpsuits to a gala. This is your time to shine!

Gala Attire for Men

When attending a gala, men should dress in formal attire, such as a suit or even a tuxedo. Adding a splash of color with an eye-catching tie or pocket square can elevate your outfit and help you match the theme.

More times than not, we can be tempted to keep things comfy and casual. While this is usually okay for most types of event, you should avoid this at all costs when attending a gala. Men should never wear jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or sneakers to a gala. These types of attire are far too casual for an extravagant gala.

Best Dress Brands for Galas

Portia and Scarlett Gala Dresses

Portia and Scarlett has countless designs that would be perfect for your next gala! Their gowns feature unique silhouettes, elegant accessories, and beautiful beadwork. If you have your heart set on a gown with matching elbow-length gloves, then you’re in luck! Portia and Scarlett have many gala gowns that come with gorgeous gloves!

Terani Couture Gala Dresses

You can never go wrong with a couture gown! Galas are the perfect opportunity for you to try an extravagant design and Terani Couture has so many for you to choose from. Whether you want to wear a structured mermaid dress, a flowy ball gown, or eye-catching jeweled dress, you’ll find a Terani Couture gala dress that’s everything you’ve dreamed of!

Tarik Ediz Gala Dresses

Do you want to achieve an effortlessly elegant look at your next gala? Then Tarik Ediz is the designer for you! Many Tarik Ediz gowns have flowy fabric, beautiful embellishments, and stunning silhouettes, making them perfect for an extravagant event like a gala. Get ready to be the most elegant one in attendance!

Jovani Gala Dresses

Jovani is one of the most popular designers out there, but did you know that you can also wear a Jovani gown to your next gala? While many of us have worn Jovani to prom, homecoming, or a pageant, you can also wear an elegant Jovani evening gown to a gala! With so many Jovani styles to choose from, you can absolutely find one that’s fancy enough for your next gala.

FAQs

Can I wear a black dress to a gala?
Yes, you can absolutely wear black to a gala! In fact, black is actually the preferred color for many black tie events, including galas. Can I wear a short dress to a gala?
Short dresses are not considered appropriate gala attire. While some galas allow attendees to wear cocktail dresses, such as the Met Gala, you will probably want to play it safe and wear a floor-length evening gown.

What colors do you wear to a gala?
The color you wear to a gala should align with the theme of the event. For example, if you attend an “Under the Sea” themed gala, then you’ll want to stick with various shades of blue. If you’re attending a charity gala, try wearing a gown that matches the color of the organization you are supporting.

Shopping for a gala dress doesn’t have to be stressful! A queen like you deserves the royal treatment whether she’s buying a new prom dress online or shopping secondhand. At Queenly, we’ve committed ourselves to promoting sustainable fashion while making it affordable for everyone. Join our community of Queens who have listed outfits in their online closet. It’s as easy as signing up for a free account, snapping some pics, and uploading the details- that’s it!

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