Frostiball: Part Une

It’s the time of year when the big holidays are over but it’s still freezing outside and the winter doldrums are about to set in.  What better time to break out the black ties and satin skirts in glamorous Overture Hall? 

This year marks the 22nd annual Frostiball, coming directly to downtown Madison on February 2nd. This year’s event will feature 3 different venues within the Overture Center for the Arts, food from Catering a Fresco, and music by the Dick Judson Orchestra. This is the event in Madison; a signature night of pure and simple celebration, unique from any other event downtown. 

Susan Schmitz, who has attended nearly every Frostiball since its inception, says that the event is much more than just a “grown-up prom” because “you can do so much more with it”. Although it’s black tie invited, the welcoming and open atmosphere encourages people to step out of the normal formal-wear boundaries. Other than Halloween, this is the day of the year that you can wear a ball gown, top hat, dress kilt or feather boa in front of a crowd. Whatever your interpretation of dress-up is, wear it to the Frosti.

Like Halloween, some have been planning their Frostiball ensemble for six months. Others may scramble in these last few weeks before the event, checking out downtown boutiques, local designers, consignment stores or even a friend’s closet. Both Elizabeth Wewerka of Lady Moxie and Schmitz noted that many women will recycle dresses and accessories or trade with friends, a sensible option considering there are few other occasions in Madison with so much style. (Just try to search The Daily Page  for “gala”.)

If you’re still out there looking for what to wear, there are still plenty of classic and trendy options to go with. According to Susan, long skirts and black are always timeless and elegant.  Lately long gloves and bling bling jewelry (large, glittery pieces) have become very trendy items. Her best advice to men and women is not to limit yourself, especially with dramatic pieces; “Where else would you wear it but to the Frostiball?”

Elizabeth also has good advice for Frosti-goers: “Sexy  or trendy is what you feel good in. If you feel uncomfortable, it’s going to show. Wear something that you feel good in and that confidence will be hot.” She contends that Frostiball is a great event for people to have fun dressing up; short skirts, long skirts, tuxes, kilts and suits are all acceptable. Even a minidress could work if done right.

So, whether you want to stand out in the crowd or just do your own thing, the Frostiball is a welcoming reprieve from the ordinary.