What do I wear to a Royal Navy ship's dance?

Question

I've been invited to a ship's dance on the base by my Navy fella. Does anyone know what the dress code is for these things? Will a calf length prom-type dress work (have a couple of those) or does it need to be the full-length ballgown job? Knowing him he'll be well and truly dressed up in his tux or suit so I don't want to look like a scruff. On the other hand I don't want to be overdressed.

Answer 1

The dress code will be published with the invitation so your fella should be able to check with the organiser. He will probably be in uniform if its an official do.

This is the sort of thing you will find on the invite:

Dear Guest







I hope you will enjoy the function, hospitality and facilities of our Mess. This is a friendly note to advise you regarding the attire you should wear in order to avoid embarrassment and satisfy our Mess Rules. So why a dress code? Well the Mess is wholly military in its form and is therefore run along strict military lines. Dress codes are a necessary part of service life and abiding by them ensures those who do abide are not offended by those who don’t and provides a universally accepted high standard that complements the military Mess kits and uniforms required to be worn by Mess members at formal occasions.

Formal Dress for Dinners, Balls, Ladies Nights:

Gentlemen: Black Dinner Suit (White DJ permitted in summer months or full highland rig throughout) with:

Plain black bow tie.

Stiff fronted white shirt.

Black shoes.

Belt or Cummerbund.

The following are not permitted:

Winged collars.

Any bow tie that is not plain black!

Waistcoats of any description.

‘Soft material’ white fronted shirts.

Ladies: Full length ball gown or mid calf length cocktail dress.

The following are not permitted:

Cocktail dresses shorter than mid calf.

Dresses with splits that start above mid thigh.

Trousers.

Trouser suits.

Extremes of fashion.

Grateful if you would ensure you are properly attired as refused entry often offends. In addition please be aware gentlemen must keep jackets on until ‘relax jackets’ is called by the Mess President. If in doubt please consult your host.

Answer 2

Doesn't matter, they'll be happy just to see a woman.