Every now and then we see a fabric we just can’t forget. An encounter with an ivory colored silk shantung, embellished with chenille blossoms in ivory and apricot, was such a moment. It put us in mind of the glamorous spectacle of the Vienna Ball Season.

Every year the cold, dark months of January and February light up with dozens of balls throughout the enchanting city of Vienna. Many are organized around guilds, such as the Confectioners and the Coffee Makers. The Opera Ball, which takes place in ‘the most beautiful ballroom in the world’ in the Vienna Opera House is the official State Ball of the Republic of Austria.

The waltz is part of a ceremonial program based on courtly customs that date from the 18th century. After the opening fanfare there are formal processions, planned spectaculars, and the traditional call to begin, ‘Alles Walzer!”

Here in Washington, DC, where we find the embassies of over 200 foreign countries, the Austrians have made a special contribution. Years back they opened their embassy, which houses the most gorgeous dance floor in the city, to anyone who wanted to learn to waltz in the Viennese style.

At the time, the Austrian cultural attache was a Viennese Tanzmeister. He and his wife, both magnificent dancers, taught hundreds of us at a time. Sticklers for detail, they impressed upon us the correct footwork, posture, and etiquette to equip us to attend these glittering events. Well, once you create waltzers, you plan waltzes. A particularly grand white-tie event spent whirling in the ballroom of the Organization of American States stands out: full orchestra, sparkling champagne, and mountains of whipped cream delicacies for the spent dancer.

A glimpse of this embellished silk shantung instantly conjured up the moment. As we make our way through the cold, dark days of winter, we share it with you.

The skirt, sleeveless shell, and cumberbund of the Vienna Ensemble are custom pieces. For more information visit the Custom Boutique.