Expectation of high turnover during ball season in Vienna

The Viennese ball season is currently in full swing, and it promises to be an exciting one with a jam-packed lineup of approximately 450 balls scheduled for this year, as reported by ORF. According to forecasts from the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, this year's ball season is expected to bring in even higher revenue compared to the previous year, with an estimated turnover of EUR 175 million. This positive impact extends beyond the organizers themselves and reaches various commercial enterprises that benefit from ball season, such as costume rentals, tailors, watchmakers, photographers and florists. A staggering 540,000 visitors are expected to attend the enchanting balls this season.

Maria Smodics-Neumann, the Head of the Trade and Crafts Division at the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, has observed an interesting trend in the ball season. There is a growing preference among attendees to rent appropriate attire like tuxedos, tailcoats, and evening gowns, which has resulted in increased activity for costume rental businesses. Similarly, tailoring companies are experiencing a boost in business as existing ball gowns can be transformed and revitalised with minor alterations, creating completely new and unique looks.

When it comes to the fashion choices for this year's ball season, delicate shades of rose and purple are proving to be popular, along with vibrant tones like fiery red, bright red and orange. Classic silhouettes for ball gowns, featuring elegant bodices paired with voluminous skirts and clean lines, are also making a strong comeback.

Aside from the fashion industry, the ball season also brings about increased sales for jewellers, goldsmiths and watchmakers, as noted by Smodics-Neumann.

One of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year is the 81st Vienna Philharmonic Ball, which is set to take place on January 18th at the magnificent Vienna Musikverein building. Another highly anticipated ball is the 66th Opera Ball, scheduled to grace the halls on February 8th.