I just read When The Astors Owned New York and there was a lot of fascinating info about the NYC version of these balls in the Gilded Age. Apparently they got bad press and some of the hosts and their defended them by pointing out the economic and retail stimulus they provided through costume purchases. I thought that was so interesting-and so American!
All those dresses .... every night..... fabulous!!!!!
I was surprised to learn that balls were scheduled almost nightly at one point!
I just read When The Astors Owned New York and there was a lot of fascinating info about the NYC version of these balls in the Gilded Age. Apparently they got bad press and some of the hosts and their defended them by pointing out the economic and retail stimulus they provided through costume purchases. I thought that was so interesting-and so American!