Formal Ball

The Formal Ball features classical renditions of beloved songs from series such as Final Fantasy, The Legend of Zelda, and Fullmetal Alchemist. Attendees can enjoy a wide array of music, whether they are veteran ballroom dancers or newcomers. Please note that the Ball is a formal ballroom dance first and foremost. All attendees of the event must adhere to the dress code and rules of behavior as listed below.

Note: The formal ball is included with the purchase of your badge and does not require a separate ticket in order to attend.

DRESS CODE

The Formal Ball aims to provide an elegant experience. All attendees must adhere to the following dress code, which will be enforced by event staff at the entrance.

General Clothing Guidelines:

  • All outfits (dresses, skirts, tops, pants, and shoes) must be formal.
  • Garments with rips or tears must appear formal, and hemlines should be tidy without loose threads. Staff will have scissors available for minor adjustments.
  • Shoes and other clothing for disability needs are exempt from dress code rules.

Specific Outfits:

  • Asian Formal Wear: Japanese clothing, Lolita, and other Asian formal styles are welcome, provided they meet these guidelines. Geta sandals are allowed only with traditional Japanese outfits.
  • Military Uniforms: Only formal dress military uniforms are permitted. Fantasy or battle armor (e.g., Attack on Titan uniforms) is prohibited.
  • Fursuits: Permitted only if covered with a formal outfit that complies with the dress code.
  • Cosplay: Cosplays must follow the dress code. Characters with outfits that are almost but not fully formal (e.g., tuxedos with tennis shoes) must be modified to meet guidelines.

Tops:

  • Necklines should be formal and conservative; plunging necklines are prohibited.
  • Suits or suit jackets are encouraged but not required.
  • Dress shirts (e.g., collared shirts) are acceptable without jackets but must remain fully buttoned.
  • Midriffs must be fully covered with non-transparent material.
  • Strapless tops or dresses must fit securely.
  • Undergarments (e.g., bras, garter straps) must not be visible. Built-in undergarments that blend with the outfit are acceptable.

Bottoms:

  • Only dress pants are acceptable if wearing pants.
  • Dresses or skirts should not expose undergarments. We recommend hemlines no shorter than 2–3 inches above the knee.
  • Slits must be modest and not risk exposure of undergarments.
  • Avoid trains on dresses, as they can be stepped on.

Shoes:

  • Acceptable: Dressy sandals, pumps, flats, boots, high heels, dress shoes
  • Geta are allowed with traditional Japanese outfits.
  • Not Allowed: Sneakers, tennis shoes, outdoor sandals, flip-flops

Accessories:

  • Formal neckwear (e.g., ties, bow ties, cravats) is encouraged but not required.
  • Props are allowed but must not obstruct movement or endanger others.

Makeup:

  • Normal cosmetics and sealed body/face paint are permitted.
  • Outfits that fully conceal the face with makeup or masks are allowed.

Prohibited Items & Attire:

  • Casual or rave-style outfits
  • Jeans or cargo pants (dress pants only)
  • Outfits with visible undergarments or sheer midriffs
  • Outfits prone to wardrobe malfunctions (e.g., slipping or falling off during dancing)
  • Props that obstruct movement (e.g., swords, wings, staffs, large tails, or guns)
  • Unsealed body or face paint
  • Fursuits without proper formal attire covering them

Rules of Behavior:

All Triad Anime Con and Benton Convention Center rules must be followed. Shoes must remain on throughout the event, and personal belongings should be stored in designated areas or left in your room, as staff are not responsible for lost items. Attendees must treat staff and others with respect; any harassment, inappropriate contact, or disruptive behavior should be reported immediately to Triad Anime Con Security. If you experience discomfort, harassment, or witness someone feeling unwell, notify the staff/ safety team at the entrance promptly.