Ballin’ on a budget

A week ago I received a text from a friend asking if I wanted to go to a charity ball, so of course I said yes! It was short notice so I had to drag myself to the Trafford Centre with my bestie Pippa so we could find ball-appropriate dresses.

Now, I’m not usually flush with cash in the middle of the month, so before I left home I had a quick scout on the internet to see if I could find any cute dresses – I checked Asos, Coast, New Look and Quiz for inspiration. Quiz had the best options, so I went straight to the sale rail for a bargain!

After 15 minutes of wading through all the dresses, I found one in my favourite colour (purple, naturally), checked the price and headed to the changing rooms to try it on. I was super impressed, and headed back out to locate shoes, a wrap and a bag to pull the whole outfit together. Pippa found a gorgeous slinky black and gold number with a black wrap to match. The wrap also came in silver so I picked that up and an understated silver clutch to complete the look.

Hunting for shoes was not as easy. As we’ve not quite hit party season yet, all the shops still have the summer heels which tend to lack the platform support I need with a chunky heel to stop myself from toppling over. I did, however, find some gorgeous burgundy knee high boots which I’ll definitely be treating myself to come payday! In the end, I decided to wear a pair of shoes I already had at home (and saved myself some money in the process).

The ball itself was a very glamorous affair. We were greeted at the Radisson Blu Edwardian Hotel by a saxophonist playing smooth jazz, and handed glasses of prosecco on arrival. I’ll be honest, being covered in tattoos and having green hair I did feel rather out of place but it was nice to dress up and pretend I was fancy!

The ball was to raise money for Stockdales – a charity which supports people with learning disabilities, as well as their families. They provide residential support as well as support groups for all kinds of people. There was a silent auction with items donated from Conor McGregor, a day out at the races, tickets to the Masters golf tournament and lots of other wonderful things. The main auction included lunch with the Real Housewives of Cheshire, a luxury sofa from Cheshire Home Interiors and the full hospitality matchday package from Manchester City FC. Lots of money was raised throughout the night with mini raffles, with a hamper full of booze and chocolate, as well as two IMO mobile handsets being given away. It was for a great cause, and we got to hear from families who rely on Stockdales, who are hoping to use the money to open yet another residential home with the funds raised.

So, how much did everything cost?

Dress from Quiz: £39.99

Silver wrap from Quiz: £12.99

Clutch from Quiz: £12.99

I also lucked out and got 20% student discount on the wrap and clutch which really helped – wherever I go I always ask if there is discount to be had (every little saving does help!)

I also saved money by doing my own makeup (I’m no make up professional but I looked nice enough) and got my husband to do my hair.

It was a really great night and hopefully I can go back next year and donate more.

Until next time!