Society beauties at Tatler Debutante Ball in Moscow

Resplendent in glittering ballgowns, the next generation of society beauties gathered to make their formal debut at the Tatler Debutante Ball in Moscow tonight. 

The young women, daughters of some of the country’s most influential power players, showcased their wealth in stunning couture and extravagant jewellery.

Guests included the daughter of Russia’s Energy Minister Alexander Novak and the great-granddaughter of celebrated Russian Imperial Ballet prima ballerina Mathilde Kschessinska. 

Belles of the ball: Eleonora Sevenard, left, the great granddaughter of Mathilde Kschessinska, a Russian Imperial Ballet prima ballerina arrives for the Tatler Debutante Ball. Right, Alexandra Novak, daughter of Russia’s Energy Minister Alexander Novak

Holding court: Miss Sevenard is surrounded by a gaggle of beautiful young women as they prepare to enter the ball

They gathered in the opulent Pillar Hall of the House of the Unions, chatting excitedly in the lobby outside before making their way into the ball itself. 

The event, launched by society bible Tatler in 2008, attracts Russia‘s mega-rich elite and follows in the tradition of British and American debutante balls. 

However unlike international events, young women making their debut in Moscow are not required to wear white gowns. 

Instead they arrived dressed in black, pink and gold – often draped in a heavy fur coat or cape.  

Strike a pose: Alexandra Zhulina, the daughter of Russian figure skaters Alexander Zhulin and Tatyana Navka

Radiant: Miss Novak showed off her flawless skin and glamorous look as she posed for photos outside the ball

Mirror image: The brunette beauty opted for a one-shouldered black dress with metallic embellishments for the evening

Making an entrance: Miss Zhulina, left, and Miss Novak, right, showcase their fur coats and elegant gowns in the lobby

Society debut: Beaming, the young women crowd around and chat as they soak up the excitement of the formal event