By Emily Maclean, Second Year, English
The formula remains untouched: a limitless flow of wine and prosecco, a three course meal, an atmosphere promising to whisk you straight to the set of Bridgerton, and the unmistakable soundtrack of generational-wealth laughter. The image of the winter formal is exclusive, paved in the attempted recreation of Oxbridge-style balls. Then again, isn’t that cynical? Don’t students deserve one night a year of harmless pretence?
The most obvious barrier is cost - tickets are often around £30 - £40, a significant financial commitment for students, considering that two courses at The Ivy, a notorious emblem of fine dining in the wealthy Clifton Village, cost £20.95. Black-tie dress codes, aesthetics crafted for Instagram bragging-rights, and the conspicuous performance of privilege can transform the evening from a community celebration to a performance of status.
The ever-rising cost of living continues to escalate this pressure. The number of students in employment is skyrocketing, increasing from 58 to 68 per cent in the past year. Despite demand for these events remaining strong, it’s worth asking what some students are sacrificing, whether that be extra hours at work, or an extra bit of pocket money, to participate in this one night of extravagance.
Most societies are aware of these tensions and actively work to make formals more accessible, by subsidising ticket prices and offering alternative low-budget socials aimed to ensure that all members can engage with their events. It’s also important to remember that societies are run by fellow students also juggling budgets and pressures, who try to create memorable experiences without excluding anyone.
Formals foster a sense of community and provide a brief reprieve from student life. Falstaff Society told Epigram, ‘The Winter Formal is our biggest event of the term, a chance to come together, celebrate the (near!) end of a busy semester, and enjoy being part of Falstaff Society.’
‘There’s been especially strong enthusiasm from first-year students who are eager to get involved in their subject’s society and enjoy those quintessential university experiences.’
The society has also been considerate of those unable to attend, promising to continue celebrations at a pub or club following the event, to which everyone’s invited, and keeping members updated through Instagram. Beyond formals, Falstaff Society runs year-round events, most free or low-cost and designed to be accessible and inclusive, showing how some societies are strongly committed to making all members feel welcome.
The merits of the winter formal differ according to the society, with Exchange Society eager to introduce international students to British holiday traditions. Exchange Society explained that: ‘Besides a delicious meal and a great time, we hope our members - who come from all over the world - will enjoy seeing how Christmas is celebrated in the UK.
‘What we take for granted (like pulling a Christmas cracker!) can be a completely new experience for someone else.’
The winter formal provides a perfect send-off for students leaving the UK at the end of term, while a range of other events offer cheaper and sober options for all members. A far cry from elitist performance, their formal is conducted in the open spirit of cultural exchange and community.
Jessie Dutton
The intention of the winter formal isn’t exclusionary; many societies stress that it’s a space for fantasy, community, and shared celebration after a busy term. The debate shouldn’t be whether winter formals should exist, but rather what message they convey to students, and how they can better reflect students’ circumstances. One night of escapism is harmless - as long as it is acknowledged for what it is.
Featured Image: Epigram / Amaya Lewis-Patel
Will you be attending a winter formal this Christmas?
