Grand Ballgowns

Unexpected elements give a dress that one-of-a-kind look. White dropped-waist gown with ruched-tulle bodice, tulle hand-painted skirt and pale-blue bow, $15,900, by Carolina Herrera, 212-249-6552. White gold–and-black-diamond necklace, $80,000, by Judith Ripka, 212-517-8200. Silver silk clutch with black lace overlay, $120, by Franchi Handbags, 262-780-0909.