Etiquette

The dress code 

The dress code of the annual ball is white tie. It refers to a tailcoat, a dark gown, or a long evening gown.

A black tailcoat can be paired with black trousers and a white shirt, vest, bow and gloves. To perfect the look, one can wear a white cloth and patent leather shoes. Wearing a dark (black or grey) suit is also possible, but the white shirt is obligatory. The tie should be silver, grey or pearly. Tuxedos and wristwatches usually don’t belong in the white tie dress code.

The evening gown is preferably a full-length evening dress so that only the tip of the shoe is showing. Otherwise there are no specific rules – the colour and the model of the dress can be freely chosen. You may also add festive jewellery and a purse. Long hair is usually tied up but it can also be held freely open.

Academic medals and the KY ribbon

Academic medals of honour include the ribbons and symbols of both national and foreign student organizations as well as symbols awarded by the state. In KY’s Annual Ball, it is a tradition to wear the orange-green KY ribbon. The ribbon can be bought from KY's office during service hours. It can be used in two ways: as a long sash going down from the right shoulder over the holder's chest down to the left or as a folded rosette on the right side of the front of the dress.

According to tradition, the ribbon may not touch its carrier’s skin, which is why an evening dress is usually combined with the rosette. Regardless of the way of use, the green colour of the ribbon should always face the ground as it reflects the soil. In a rosette, green should face the ground and outwards the body. You can find a tutorial on folding a rosette from YouTube.

NOTE: During the past few years there has been a lot of discussion if the AYY or KY ribbon should be on top if worn in KY’s Annual Ball. Usually, you should wear your student union (AYY) ribbon on top of your student association (KY) one.

However, since KY’s Annual Ball is a celebration for KY, it is also okay to wear them the other way around. This is a question of preference and although some older students might claim otherwise, there is really no correct way. However, using for instance the ribbon of a smaller student association (such as a subcommittee or club) on top can be considered disrespectful.

Code of Conduct

We follow KY’s Code of Conduct and do not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior of any kind. By attending the event you also agree to follow these principles. You can read the full code of conduct here.