The 2025 Masked Ball turned Versailles into something straight out of a dream. Over 2,500 guests showed up in full 18th-century regalia: powdered wigs, elaborate masks, silk gowns, and enough sparkle to light up the gardens.
Picture the Met Gala colliding with The Great Gatsby, but set against the backdrop of Versailles at night.
Fireworks burst overhead. The scent of orange blossoms drifted through the air. Music echoed across the lawns. For one unforgettable evening, everyone became part of the fantasy.
Some of these costumes were crafted by professional designers. Others were stitched together at home after months of late-night work and creative problem-solving. Either way, they stopped people in their tracks.
Below, you’ll find the stories behind the looks that defined the night.
Anthony Gonzalez | Costa Rica | @tropicalFae
Sea-Inspired Baroque with a Latin Soul: Best Costumes of the Masked Ball of Versailles
Inspiration:
For the whole look, the biggest inspiration for me was the sea. I’m from Costa Rica, a small tropical country surrounded by the sea on both sides.
From the moment we got the tickets to the ball, I was inspired by the idea of imagining what a baroque costume would look like if translated to my latitude while still respecting the baroque aesthetic.
The final design included a short jacket inspired by the chaquetillas worn by Spanish bullfighters—“short, richly embroidered jackets full of visual golden details and decorations”—combined with sea-life textures and layers of detail.
Hidden Detail:
I think that even though the sea was my main reference, some of the sea-like ornaments, textures, and details might have gotten lost in the overall look. Especially with all the embroidery and lace going on.
Designer Collaboration:
This is an original design. I did the patternmaking, cutting, and sewing myself.
I got help from my boyfriend for the corset, and for the shoes I asked a local shoemaker to create the base, which I then customized and decorated myself.
It took about eight months to put the outfit together. I’m not a professional designer, so I worked on it whenever I had free time.
On the Versailles Experience:
It felt like a fairytale, a dream come true. I felt like I was part of a movie!
I don’t even know how to fully express it.
Just being able to walk through such a historic place, dressed like that, surrounded by beautiful scenery and incredible people. The energy of it all made for an unforgettable experience.
Lady Saintidame | USA / Germany
Instagram: @bluebonnetsanddames
Gown by Couture Confections
Inspiration:
My dress inspiration really came from the fabric on my skirt. I knew I loved and wanted that fabric no matter what.
Standout Detail:
The unexpected feature is that my dress is two in one! The overskirt is removable and the flowers on my shoulders come off. I really wanted to be able to convert my dress and wear it to other events—and with the removable items, it’s perfect even for modern-style occasions.
Designer Collaboration:
My designer was Brittany of Couture Confections. The collaboration was amazing!
She is a ball gown genius and plans fantasy balls in the States, so she was the perfect woman for the job. She and I talked back and forth through the whole process so she could really put my personality into my dress.
Walking Through Versailles:
My biggest regret is that my hair took much longer than expected and I didn’t get to make it to the palace in time to go into the Hall of Mirrors. I will not miss this next year!
Advice for Future Attendees:
If you are dreaming of attending next year, I highly recommend you don’t miss the promenade from 8:30 to 11 p.m. (you will regret it).
Wear comfortable shoes, be ready to dance, and you HAVE to stay till sunrise!
Watching the sunrise on the palace lawn was like getting to witness a bit of what it would have felt like to be a noble partying with Marie Antoinette.
Kira Pavlova | Ukraine | Instagram: @kira_p._ | TikTok: @sobakistyle
Behind the Scenes: Creating the Best Costumes of the Masked Ball of Versailles
Custom Gown by Pauline Bigniak Design
Inspiration:
I’ve always loved historical films—the elegance, the styling, the atmosphere. But honestly, no movie could ever compare to Versailles itself. Just being there is already the greatest source of inspiration.
Standout Detail:
The most stunning element of the ensemble was the handmade mask: a lace piece embroidered with hundreds of beads, featuring removable decorative elements and a sculpted 3D bird.
It took over 30 hours to complete and was directly inspired by the 2025 event’s official theme, ‘Animal as the Future.’
Designer Collaboration:
The dress was a collaborative creation between me and Ukrainian label Pauline Bigniak Design. The design was a result of our joint ideas and discussions. Everything was so beautifully balanced and expressive.
Walking Through Versailles:
When I finally walked into the ball and saw people’s reactions—the admiration, the way they appreciated the effort—I realized it was all worth it.
Advice for Future Attendees:
Don’t be afraid to go all out. Wear the longest feathers, the highest hair, the grandest dress. Nothing is ‘too much’ at Versailles—in fact, that’s what makes it magical.
Jared Michael Godbey | American | @FlyingPrince91
A Gender-Bending Tribute to Versailles
Inspiration:
I took a bit of inspiration from (of course) Marie Antoinette but had my own spin on it. I love the ‘gender bending’ of it.
Standout Detail:
I think the most standout feature was my mask. Everyone noticed or commented on it.
Designer Collaboration:
I designed my outfit and took various pieces together to make ‘the look.’ The mask was designed and created by @DoraMarra.
Walking Through Versailles:
OMG it was almost like a dream… so magical… with everyone dressed up—it really takes you back to the era. Then add in the music, dancing… just incredible!
Advice for Future Attendees:
DO IT! It was my first time and I’ll definitely be back! You meet people from all over the globe just enjoying all of the magic together!
Yuner Alvarado | Costa Rica | @theoctopus03
Barrococo: Sacred and Regal
Inspiration:
It wasn’t hard for me to decide. Once I chose the color palette, I knew I wanted the look to revolve around the Sacred Heart of Jesus and some elements of Baroque Catholic imagery.
My goal was to create a blend with the Rococo aesthetic. I’d say the look can be summed up in a play on words: ‘Barrococo’ (Baroque + Rococo).
Standout Detail:
I think a detail people might not notice at first is that the shape of the corset and cape resemble Roman armor, which makes the look play between the feminine and the masculine.
Designer Collaboration:
The idea, design, and full development of the outfit were entirely my own. It was my longest personal project—I spent about six months working on every detail. I’m really happy with the final result.
Walking Through Versailles:
It was something I didn’t know I needed to do until I was actually there. Having that opportunity doesn’t just feel like a fantasy—it feels like something everyone should experience at least once in their life.
Advice for Future Attendees:
My advice would be to also buy the ticket for the Serenade Royale, because being dressed up inside the palace while watching the different performances is absolutely incredible.
Lindsay Kusiak | USA | @lindsaykusiak
A Light-Up Flamingo Fantasy from Los Angeles
Inspiration:
When I found out the theme revolved around animals, I leaned into that. I ordered the flamingo hat from Etsy (DazzlingDesignzShop) because I felt like it was something akin to Marie Antoinette’s elaborate wigs but done with my own flair.
Standout Detail:
I think the standout detail is the lights, but it’s definitely noticeable!
Designer Collaboration:
I ordered the dress as a backup from Amazon because I was afraid my first-choice dress wouldn’t arrive on time. Then, I got my first-choice dress and liked this one better!
Soon, I had the hat and added flamingo-pink shoes. I added the brooches down the front on the advice of a friend who is a costume designer.
Then, the real magic happened when I got my kids involved. I knew I wanted lights on the dress somehow, and I ordered, like, five different kinds of lights.
Then I shoved my kids in a dark closet with me and we looked at the dress wrapped in all the different choices. The flower lights definitely won, and my 10-year-old son was the one who designed how to pin them on so they crossed across the bodice at the front.
Walking Through Versailles:
Walking around the ball was way more fun than I expected. Everyone was so excited to talk and mingle and discuss their costumes. It was tricky to smoosh through crowds with everyone wearing huge panniers though.
Advice for Future Attendees:
I think texture is something that can really elevate a costume and is frequently overlooked—but also, find cool shoes that are very comfortable.
Eleanor Tata | UK
A Historically Inspired Rococo Revival
Inspiration:
I did some historical research and created a Versailles mood board, with visual inspiration from films, paintings, fashion shows, and exhibition photos.
This helped me immensely in crafting a look that felt as authentic and historically accurate as possible. The real turning point was the fabric choice, which ultimately inspired the entire look.
Without hesitation, I selected a Liberty silk (Stately Kristyna Honey) from my personal stash. The colours and design perfectly suited the luxurious and opulent atmosphere of the masked ball at Versailles.
Standout Detail:
The mask was made entirely from scratch using lace.
I carefully hand-shaped and stiffened it, trimmed the edges, hand-sewed pearls onto it, and crafted delicate sticks—similar to glass sticks—to make it easier to wear.
The inside lining of the velvet pouch is made from the same silk as the dress, creating a cohesive and luxurious finish.
Designer Collaboration:
Once I had my visual world and fabric sorted, I reached out to Meg Henry (@meg.lara.atelier), sharing my mood board, my design ideas, and the fabric choice.
My Rococo dress started with a base I purchased at a costume sale from the Royal Opera House in London—a simple striped burgundy dress with a sleeveless bodice and an attached gown.
I chose this as my foundation because it had a lovely structure, but of course, it needed several alterations to bring my vision to life. Meg worked her magic, transforming that simple gown into the Rococo dress I had imagined.
I wanted to personalize the finishing touches, so I took care of all the embellishments myself—incorporating delicate trimmings (such as the gathering along the neckline and on the front of the dress), pearled details on the bodice and on the sleeves, and the gold appliqué on the red velvet.
I also crafted the accessories, including the mask, velvet pouch, and hairpiece. The wig was created by the talented Jobina Hardy from @birdsnestwigs.
Walking Through Versailles:
I hadn’t realized that access to the Hall of Mirrors was possible—something to look forward to on a future visit—so I spent the evening primarily exploring the gardens.
As someone with a background in theatre and a deep love for period dramas and historical costumes, it was an absolute dream to wander through the breathtaking grounds of Versailles in a gown I’m truly proud of.
The structure of the dress and the weight of the wig naturally altered my posture and movements, making the experience feel all the more immersive.
It’s almost like your body intuitively understands the time period you’re embodying. I felt transported through time; it was utterly magical. I could have promenaded for hours through those magnificent gardens.
Advice for Future Attendees:
I would recommend planning your entire outfit well in advance, especially if it’s being tailored specifically for you. You’ll want to make a lasting impression and truly stand out from the crowd.
Attention to detail is everything.
Consider not just the dress, but also the accessories—shoes, stockings, wig, trimmings, jewelry, pouch, and makeup all play an essential role in completing the look.
And don’t forget the practical side: make sure your phone is fully charged, or, if space allows, bring a backup battery. You’ll be taking hundreds of photos and videos!
Jan Roderick van Bugnum | Amsterdam
What inspired your look for the 2025 Masked Ball of Versailles?
I was inspired by the opulence of the French royal court, especially the extravagant flair of Louis XIV’s era. I wanted to create something theatrical and eye-catching, which is why I chose a royal blue color palette, rich fabrics, and a dramatic feathered mask to tie it all together.
Can you tell us about a standout detail in your outfit that people might not notice at first glance?
The embroidery on the coat is filled with intricate royal motifs that reflect the spirit of Versailles — crowns, fleur-de-lis, and subtle gold detailing. And if you look closely, there’s a carefully placed blue ribbon beneath the lace cravat that’s a small personal signature.
Who designed your ensemble, and how did the collaboration come about?
I designed the look myself. I collaborated with a local costume atelier to bring the design to life using vintage-style materials. It was important that the result was both authentic and slightly over-the-top — perfect for Versailles.
What was it like walking around in costume at the ball?
It was truly magical — a fairy-tale come to life. The atmosphere, the costumes, the palace… it felt surreal. And as the night went on, it all transformed into an incredible rave. Honestly, one of the most unforgettable parties I’ve ever been to.
What advice would you give someone dreaming of attending next year’s ball in style?
Go big. Versailles is all about extravagance, so don’t hold back.
Plan early, pay attention to the details, and most of all, wear something that makes you feel royal. Oh, and one tip — stylish shoes that are still comfortable are an absolute game-changer.
Anthony Bennett | UK | @its.insta.anth
Inspiration:
There wasn’t one single inspiration behind my look this year. I knew I wanted wings, that was the starting point-and everything else evolved from there. To bring it all together with a sense of historical flair, I added a rococo-style wig and a fleur-de-lys silk train to tie the whole ensemble together.
Standout Detail:
One subtle detail that might have gone unnoticed is the Swarovski crystal embellishment on the armour. They caught the light beautifully and created a dazzling effect on the dance floor but it didn’t translate to photos.
Designer Collaboration:
I design my costume every year and then begin the challenge of sourcing each element to bring the vision to life. This year was a little more straightforward, but still a global effort—my wings came from Ukraine, the wig was handmade in Bath, England, the sandals were sourced from Greece and my accessories from Turkey.
Walking Through Versailles:
Walking through the gardens and attending the party in costume is always a magical experience—especially when you go for something unexpected and break away from traditional 1700s attire. People were so complimentary and kept asking for photos and videos. It’s always such a joy.
Advice for Future Attendees:
That’s a tough one! But if you want to make a stylish statement, I’d say: think outside the box. This ball is about creativity and fun—so choose an idea, play with it, and make it fit within the period in a clever, imaginative way.
A Final Word on the Most Unforgettable Costumes from the 2025 Masked Ball of Versailles
The 2025 Masked Ball of Versailles was more than just an event—it was a living gallery of imagination, artistry, and bold self-expression. From flamingo-lit fantasy to hand-embroidered silk gowns and Rococo silhouettes reinterpreted with modern edge, these were the costumes that defined the night.
What made these looks unforgettable wasn’t just the lace, velvet, or gilded trim. It was the stories behind them—the months of planning, the unexpected challenges, the creative partnerships, and the joy of stepping fully into character.
Whether made by seasoned designers or crafted by first-time ball-goers with a vision, each outfit brought something magical to Versailles.
As 2026 approaches, one thing is certain: this is more than a costume party. It’s a chance to walk through history, to wear your imagination, and to be part of something spectacular. So start sketching, stitching, and dreaming now.
Because at the Masked Ball of Versailles, too much is never enough.
Ready to Make This Happen?
If you’re serious about going to the ball—or even if you’re still at the “can I really do this?” stage—I’d love to help you make it feel simple, doable, and fun. You can book a call with me if you want tailored advice on costumes, hotels, tickets, transportation, or the unspoken etiquette that makes the whole night smoother. We can map out your full plan in one conversation.
Or, if you’d prefer to start on your own, download my guidebook. It covers everything I wish I’d known before my first Versailles ball: timelines, packing lists, rental options, and those little insider tips that make all the difference.
No matter how you prepare, you’re not doing this alone. I’ve helped so many guests create the experience of their dreams—and I can’t wait to help you too.
