The Midnight After Party

Ladies — three directions

• Ball gown with capeThe ball gown stays — add a cropped velvet cape or shrug for the room change. Shoes optional once the dancing starts.
• Slip dress underneathSome guests pre-plan a slip dress under the ball gown for an easy midnight reveal — lighter, looser, made for dancing.
• Velvet trouser changeA second outfit hidden in a hotel-room hanger: high-waisted velvet trousers + silk camisole + comfortable mules.

Gentlemen — three directions

• Undone black tieBow tie loose around the collar, top button open, jacket on. The classic post-midnight look that still reads pulled-together.
• Smoking jacketBurgundy or forest velvet smoking jacket over the dress shirt, no tie, soft leather slippers. Cocktail-bar energy.
• Jacket off, waistcoat onTuxedo jacket draped on the chair. Waistcoat, white shirt sleeves rolled, dress trousers, patent shoes — easy to dance in.