Fashion.at

16 January 2025

What's Trending on the Dance Floors of Vienna's Ballrooms?
Fashion.at spoke with the creative director of hair salon Steinmetz-Bundy and couturier Juergen Christian Hoerl to discover the latest trends gracing Vienna's most glamorous balls.



Fashion.at had the pleasure of attending the exclusive 'Ball Soirée' fashion and hairstyle presentation at the elegant Steinmetz-Bundy Privatsalon, located just across from the Vienna State Opera. The evening was a dazzling showcase of beauty and craftsmanship, featuring four models in sixteen exquisite ball gowns by Viennese couturier JCH Juergen Christian Hoerl. Their hairstyles ranged from elegantly loose updos to intricate designs, including a striking bow-tied style. Hoerl's couture salon, just a stone's throw from the hairdresser's location on the Opernring, is a go-to destination for ball attendees searching for the perfect ensemble. His collaboration with Steinmetz-Bundy is well-established, making them a top choice for anyone preparing for prestigious events like the Vienna Opera Ball, which takes place next month on February 27.

A Year in the Making: Planning the Perfect Ball Look

In a conversation with Creative Director Hannes Steinmetz, Fashion.at learned that many clients book their hairstyling appointments a year in advance - as soon as they know the date of the next Opera or Philharmonic Ball! For some, their ball look is a carefully crafted vision developed in close collaboration with both the couturier and hairdresser, making the Ball Soirée event the perfect opportunity to inspire future guests.

Unlike a traditional collection following a single theme, the gowns presented at the soirée reflected the diverse wishes of Hoerl's clients. As a master of made-to-measure couture, he showcased a breathtaking variety of styles, from a figure-hugging red satin gown with a dramatic train, worn by a model whose hair was sculpted into an artful bow, to a romantic floral-embellished dress paired with voluminous curls in an elegant updo. A striped gown inspired by Viennese Modernism was complemented by a striking asymmetrical hairstyle.

Personalized Styling for Every Ball Guest


Each gown was a testament to individuality, and just like Steinmetz-Bundy's approach to hairstyling, JCH provides personalized fashion advice tailored to each client's vision. Alongside guidance on trends, the couturier also assists with selecting accessories, bags, and shoes to create a cohesive and refined look. Steinmetz-Bundy's work typically begins after the client has chosen her gown and envisioned her ball-night style - whether that means a dramatic, voluminous dress or a sleek, form-fitting silhouette. While planning ahead is ideal, spontaneity is also part of the magic. Many guests decide to attend a ball at the last minute, and in those cases, the expertise of a skilled hairdresser is key to achieving an unforgettable look in no time.

Natural Elegance: The Key Hair Trend for 2025

According to Steinmetz-Bundy, the biggest trend is natural-looking hair. Updos should have an effortless, slightly undone feel - beautifully styled yet appearing soft and free-flowing. The key is to ensure the hair holds up throughout a night of dancing (and perhaps even an after-party!) without looking overly rigid or structured. Artful touches, like the bow-shaped updo and asymmetrical styles seen at the soirée, are also gaining popularity.

The Hottest Trend Isn't a Color or Fabric - It's Individuality

When Fashion.at asked about the standout ballroom trend for 2025, the answer was clear: it's not about a specific color, material, or silhouette. The true trend is individuality - wearing a one-of-a-kind creation that perfectly embodies the desired look and personality of the wearer.

Image:
The photo captures a stunning moment from the 'Ball Soirée' event on January 15, 2025, at the Steinmetz-Bundy Privatsalon. A model walks gracefully in a long red gown with a flowing train, designed by JCH Juergen Christian Hoerl, embodying the elegance and grandeur of Vienna's ball season. Photo: © Fashion.at.
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