Every year in New York City, the Quadrille Spring Soirée marks the end of ball season and the beginning of summer. It’s our last chance to dress up in black tie before our party attire is replaced with more casual garments. So you can imagine that everyone goes all out, the women arriving to the party in bright, seasonal colors and the men in classic tuxedos.

(My bright, seasonal dress is by BCBGMAXAZRIA)

Since the Soirée is technically black-tie optional, it was fun seeing some of the guys make the look more spring-y.

This year’s theme was cherry blossoms, and the members-only Down Town Association, where the party was held, was filled with fresh flowers and decorated fans and parasols.

The evening begins with cocktail hour (or, as I like to think of it, photography hour).

Photograph by David Belusic

Then there are speeches and dinner begins!

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

After dinner, the party heats up with music, singing, and dancing.

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

And of course there’s lots of laughing (and drinking!)

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

And the night ends, surprise surprise, with more dancing…

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

Photograph by David Belusic

To find out more about the Quadrille organization, click here.

To stay updated on next year’s Spring Soirée, click here.

Here’s to a fabulous ball season and the beginning of summer!

~A