If you’ve found yourself besotted with the regent glamour of shows like Bridgerton and The Gilded Age, the real-life grandiose of Vienna ball season will prove mesmerising.
A tradition dating back to the 1800s that typically runs from November through to February, the season is as glamorous as you’d image; picture live orchestras, waltzing and, of course, tiaras.
As for the latter, it’s become a tradition for Australian house, Swarovski, to craft tiaras for debutantes. A cherished symbol of the Vienna Opera Ball, this year’s tiara was designed by Swarovski’s Global Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert and is accompanied by a tie pin—because why should the debutants get all the sparkle?
Marking it’s 130th anniversary, this year’s tiara and tie pin not only show off the house’s craftsmanship but reflect the romance and light of the historic evening. “I wanted to design something that celebrates Swarovski’s legacy while embracing the individuality of today’s debutantes,” Engelbert says.
“The infinity inspired loops, feather-like curves, and gently moving center stone are symbols of timeless romance and grace, reflecting the magical spirit of this night.”


This year, the diadem and matching pin will be displayed in a special celebratory installation at the Swarovski Kristallwelten Store in Vienna from January 17 to March 8, 2025.
This year’s Opera Ball falls on the 27th of February at the Vienna State Operaand comes with a dress code of “large, floor-length evening dress” for women and “black tailcoat (white bow tie) or gala uniform” for men.
Over 5000 people are expected to attend the Opera Ball each year, of which 160 make their debut. There are 150 musicians, 651 flower arrangements and 1000 champagne coolers.
If all of this sounds like a dream, yes, tickets are open to the public through a waitlist system, so you can try your luck at living out your regency dream and maybe even don a tiara.