Mardi Gras Masks
You’d think that the parades, the beads, the king cake and general good times would be enough to put Mardi Gras at the top of all celebrations, but Mardi Gras masks make it even better.
There is a staggering array of Mardi Gras masks available – from feathered to sequined and from beautiful to grotesque. Also the majority of wearable masks also make great decorative pieces the rest of the year.
What makes Mardi Gras masks so great is how easy it is to get into the mood of Mardi Gras with just a mask. If the idea of a costume is too overwhelming, a mask is all you need.
To check out the huge variety of masks available scroll through the Masks page and check out the video below for ideas!
What is it about masks that so many people love? Is it the chance to be someone else? Or the opportunity to be treated based on what you are like versus who you are known to be or look like? Or just the chance to behave in ways you wouldn’t if people could recognize you?
Whatever the appeal is, Mardi Gras masks are hugely popular. Of course, in this case the popularity of these masks could be in part due to their beauty. When you think of masks for Fat Tuesday you probably think of feathers, sequins, metallic or rich, vibrant colors – basically works of art you can wear!
The tradition of wearing Mardi Gras masks goes back quite some time in New Orleans and of course in Europe. Masquerade balls were the accepted time to wear masks and it gave a chance for different social classes to mingle without repercussions.
Of course, many people took having their identities concealed by wearing masks as an excuse to behave very outlandishly. In fact, people’s behavior was so wild that for some time the wearing of masks was restricted or outright prohibited.
Masks also have other applications than just to indulge in letting loose or letting your alter ego shine during Mardi Gras. There is a great tradition of making hand made masks. These can be extremely fine or just a fun craft to do with some paper mache.
Mardi Gras masks also make fantastic decorations. In the French market and in stores all throughout the French Quarter you can find gorgeous porcelain masks that are for decoration only. Of course many of the wearable masks look beautiful on the wall when they are not being worn.
Like said, masks may be worn as a part of a costume or on their own during Mardi Gras. Even if a Mardi Gras costume doesn’t come with a mask, it is usually very easy to find a mask that would complement it, especially since some popular Mardi Gras costume ideas include French royalty from the 18th century. This group of people were famous for their elaborate masquerade parties where masks were essential.
So what are some of the more popular styles of masks for Mardi Gras? Any mask that has one or all of the Mardi Gras colors – green, gold and purple – are a good bet. But really it depends on the wearer’s preference. Very simple masquerade style masks are a great choice. As are elaborate feather masks (peacock feathers are a popular choice). Jester masks always make a statement as well. Venetian masks can encompass all the above. Venetian masks are typically characterized by their ornate style and prominent use of silver and/or gold and bright colors. All masks can be full masks that cover the entire face or eye masks that cover only part of the face, leaving the lower half and mouth uncovered.
There are a variety of ways in which masks are designed to be worn. Many masks have ribbons or elastic to hold the mask in place. Another popular style (though a bit more cumbersome) are stick masks that are simply held up to the face when the wearer wants their identity concealed.
Whether you want a mask to wear while celebrating in the French Quarter or for your own Mardi Gras theme party, you will have a huge variety to choose from. If you are throwing your own Fat Tuesday party, masks are essential Mardi Gras party supplies. As mentioned above, these are not only great to wear but make great decorations for a party as well. And no matter what – don’t forget to buy Mardi Gras beads for your party. Mardi Gras masks and beads are simple ways to bring on the Carnival feel no matter where you are or what time of year it is.
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