Alva Smith Vanderbilt married into one of the country’s wealthiest families—and she was determined to make them the top of New York society. Stream THE GILDED AGE on YouTube and the PBS app. | American Experience | PBS

In 1883, Alva Vanderbilt threw the party to end all parties. The Vanderbilt's "fancy dress party" was an opulent Gilded Age costume ball that would have cost around 6 million dollars today. A dazzling display of wealth, the ball was more than just a party—it was a key strategic move in Alva's efforts to finally gain the recognition of "the" Mrs. Astor and make her entry into NYC's elite society. Onsite that evening was photographer José María Mora, with his range of props and backgrounds. Many o