Mardi Gras Masquerade Masks

Mardi Gras Masquerade Masks for Men & Women

Transform into the mysterious monsieur or belle of the French Quarter. All it takes is a Mardi Gras mask and a little attitude, right? Put on a harlequin masquerade mask and wander the Bourbon Street of your imagination. Or a sequined mask with plumage to make a grand entrance at the masquerade ball.

Okay, let's have a reality check. Chances are you're not traveling to Bourbon Street this year and have never been there. And it's unlikely you've ever attended a masquerade ball. Who on earth hosts a masked ball in the 21st century, other than billionaires and misfits? We all saw that TV series – it ended badly.

The whole point is to enter a world of fantasy and make-believe, and to recreate the carnival atmosphere of the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans. You can be there in spirit and attire. You can share in the fun, even in the middle of Nowhere, USA.

Let's say you've been invited to a Mardi Gras party ‐ not just any party, but a boiling cauldron of outrageous costumes and good-natured misbehavior. A mask isn't optional but expected.

Now that you'll be part of the masquerade, which character do you plan to portray? Domino or dominatrix? Belle of the ball or dark Casanova? Long nose stalker or masquerade jester? Every masquerade mask projects a character. Choose wisely, grasshopper. Your Mardi Gras persona and reputation lie in the balance.

Whatever your persona, we have a mask for you — dozens of masquerade masks, fashioned after the classic ornamental masks of aristocrats, theater players, and carnival queens. All yours for a song, or for a few measly bucks in contrast to what you might pay for the genuine article.

The idea of a masquerade is to conceal the identity of the wearer, but let's not pretend — everyone knows you are. You can't really hide behind the mask. Since most masquerade masks provide only partial coverage, it takes a willing suspension of disbelief for the masquerade charade to work. 

These are mostly eye masks, face masks, and half-masks that still leave distinguishing features like the mouth, hair, and neck exposed, but are light, flattering, and comfortable to wear. For men, long nose Venetian masks are top of the line, while for women, elegant black lace eye masks and elaborate feather masks offer the perfect accent for a showy ensemble.

Mardi Gras Masquerade Masks: Definitions, Which Mask Is Right for You?

Domino masks cover the eyes and the bridge of the nose. Think in terms of a cat burglar – yes, the stereotypical cat burglar wears a domino mask (perhaps on the way to a masquerade ball?). They're typically rounded but can come in a variety of shapes, the key point being that they cover the eyes and not much else. Domino masks became popular with Venetian Carnival in the 18th century; they continue their existence on at Party City, which sells them in party packs.

Venetian masks have bright colors, ornate designs, or intricate shapes. Many designs trace their origins to the Commedia dell'arte. They can be full-face or eye masks; it's the complexity and style that makes the mask Venetian. At Party City, long nose masks and some sequined feather masks fall in this category.

Bauta masks cover the whole face, have a clear chin line, and are typically heavily gilded. Perhaps the most striking feature, or lack thereof, is the absence of a mouth. If you're the strong, silent type, a bauta mask may be for you, but if you have something to say at the Mardi Gras party, choose Venetian or domino.

Mardi Gras face masks cover the entire mask like a bauta, but don't have the distinct bauta design. They're decorated with the Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold and are frequently adorned with plumage.

Harlequin masks bear a distinct diamond pattern. The term "Harlequin" derives from the paintings of Giovanni Ferretti, who depicted the masked Harlequin as a mischievous servant stirring up trouble. If you have a nettlesome personality, you may feel an almost gravitational pull to this type of mask.

Masquerade ball mask refers to any style of mask suitable for a masked ball. Every mask on this page is a masquerade ball mask, whether it's a Venetian, domino, or face mask.

Masks in Bulk & Party Packs

A great option for parties is to purchase 6 and 12-count packages of inexpensive eye masks to hand out to guests, almost like party favors. For large events, you may be able to purchase masks in bulk at your local Party City store. Non-profit organizations and members of the US military can receive a 10% discount with proof of military or non-profit status.