The Dressmakers ball is now in its sixth year. This decadent evening will include a drinks reception, a two-course sit-down meal, a catwalk show (which you can be a part of!), and the opportunity to sew yourself a glorious gown, garment, or accessory.
So, don your finery and join us at the Grand Hotel, Leicester, for a spectacular evening of creativity, heritage, and glamour!
"I have never seen so many beautifully unique outfits in one place, with garment inspection and admiration encouraged, it was the most friendly and fun formal event I've ever been to! "
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Date: TBC 2025
Location: At the Grand Hotel, Granby Street, Leicester, LE1 6ES
The idea for the Dressmakers Ball came about as we stood around the cutting table and moaned that we didn't have occasions to make and wear gowns... So we created one!
The Dressmakers Ball is a fun evening event for dressmakers and those with a passion for all things sewing related, to get together, admire each others fabulous gowns and finery, and generally have a great time with like-minded sewing friends.
Where is the venue?
The event will be held at the Grand Hotel in Leicester. The Grand Hotel is a stunning Grade II listed building that blends Victorian splendor with stylish urban interiors and fine dining in one of Leicester's most central and sophisticated hotels.
Location: The Grand Hotel, Granby Street, Leicester, LE1 6ES
Can anyone come?
Yes, we have made it our mission to make sure EVERYONE will feel welcome at The Dressmakers Ball! So no matter your gender, race, level of sewing experience, dietary, and accessibility requirements, anyone who loves sewing and the wonderful sewing community is welcome.
We are pro-body-positivity and freedom of expression for all.
I want to come with a group of friends
Tickets can be purchased as individuals or in groups of 5 or 10 places. We will be creating a seating plan based on the order tickets are sold, so book your tickets with your friends to guarantee you will be sat together on a table. We can only guarantee people will be sat together if you buy tickets together.
None of my friends sew, can I come on my own? I am worried I won't know anyone...
The sewing community is THE MOST WONDERFUL and FRIENDLY community there is! There are 150 tickets and honestly, by the end of the night, you WILL have made 149 new dressmaking friends!
But if you are coming solo, we, your hosts Sarah, Emma, and Freya will be there to welcome you at the door, so do let us know and we will guide you towards some fabulous new friends who will make you so welcome.
Do I have to make my own Dress?
Although this event is a great opportunity to go all out and have fun making your own evening wear, you do not need to make your own dress to attend. Previous attendees have made accessories, upcycled ready to wear or just styled-up casual me-made-makes!
You don't even have to wear a dress! Any form of eveningwear is fine - skirts, trousers, jackets, playsuits, shorts etc! Whatever makes you feel FABULOUS!
How can I get there and where can I park?
The Grand Hotel is located approximately 5-10 minute walk from Leicester train station, and 10-15min walk from the Haymarket bus station. Leicester is easily accessed by Train from most locations in the UK. At the time of writing there are no engineering works planned for the event weekend but please check before you travel.
The Grand Hotel has a large car park directly underneath the building which is available for guests use.
Where can I stay?
The Grand Hotel has 104 bedrooms, all offering supremely comfortable beds and beautiful surroundings. Contact the hotel directly to book.
Can I make a weekend of it?
Why not to come down on the Friday night and make the most of Leicester!
There is plenty to see and do. Visit one of the many exhibitions happening over the weekend. Take in a show at the Curve Theatre, which is right next door to our studios in the Makers Yard! Or enjoy street food, art and comedy at the Last Friday at LCB Depot
And did we mention the fabric shops...?! Visit Stuart on the market for deadstock bargains galore and a good bit of banter thrown in too! Roys Material World is also across the way in The Malcolm Arcade. John Lewis in the Highcross shopping centre has a well stocked haberdashery on the lower ground floor.
We also will be hosting a post-party brunch event (venue TBC but will be in the city centre) from 10.30am-12noon (approx) on the Sunday.