Masquerades are popular events that feature attendees in masks and more formal styles, dancing, and unique themes. Attending a masquerade is often a fun time, but preparing your masquerade outfit and figuring out what to wear can be stressful, especially if you have never attended a masquerade before.
Our article gives you masquerade outfit ideas and considerations to keep in mind so that you can party in style.
What Is a Masquerade?
Masquerade balls and parties have been around since the 15th century, and they are typically formal events that feature a black tie or more upscale dress code.
Masquerades are characterized by the presence of elaborate gowns or outfits and masks for attendees that either cover the eye area or the entirety of the face. While historical masquerade balls were considered formal events or generally reserved for royalty, they evolved into events more for the general public over time.
Today’s masquerade balls range from formal to semi-formal, and they may have a variety of dress codes or themes. You can expect most masquerades to encourage elaborate dresses or outfits, often even more elaborate than those you would wear at a gala or other formal event, and these events are especially popular around the fall or Halloween season due to their association with costume parties.
How Should I Dress for a Masquerade?
When you start to consider dressing for a masquerade, there are a few dos and don’ts that you will want to take note of.
To start with, you will need to keep in mind the dress code and overall formality of the theme. This helps you decide between a ball gown, a cocktail dress, or a more elaborate outfit.
You should also do your best to choose something you will be comfortable in. Fidgeting with your outfit all night or risking fashion disasters isn’t the best way to spend your masquerade.
Make sure that you don’t wear anything too revealing, and do your best to choose a masquerade outfit you can easily move around in. These events typically have lots of dancing and mingling, and you want to be able to achieve this without too much stress. Don’t hesitate to ask someone for advice or assistance if you need help dressing for your next masquerade event.
Masquerade Dress Codes to Keep In Mind
As you start thinking about what to wear to a masquerade, keep the following general dress code advice for masquerade outfits in mind.
Masquerade Theme
Masquerade balls typically have a theme, and you may be invited to a winter masquerade, a summer masquerade, or a Halloween masquerade dance.
With different themes come different levels of formality, accepted colors, and outfits. You might expect a Halloween masquerade to allow more costume party-style outfits and elaborate or spooky looks. On the other hand, winter masquerades might encourage lighter colors of blue, white, and silver and long-sleeved dresses.
Always double-check your masquerade invitation for details on specific themes and dress code requirements.
Masquerade Mask
One of the biggest key points of a masquerade is the presence of a mask. You should make sure that you have a mask that matches your outfit and the theme of the dress code.
Pay attention to whether or not you will need a mask that fits the theme, one that covers part of your face, or one that covers your entire face. The most popular choice of mask for most masquerade balls is one that simply covers the eye area.
Appropriate Outfits
When choosing a masquerade outfit, it’s always important to select a dress or suit that is appropriate for the evening. In general, you won’t want to wear anything that is too revealing or excessively form-fitting, nor will you want to wear anything ripped, stained, or dirty.
Masquerade events are typically formal or semi-formal, and evening dresses, cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, or suits are the overall preferred outfits.
Shoes and Accessories
In addition to pairing your masquerade outfit with a mask, you should take the time to ensure that you have the right shoes and accessories for your outfit. Make sure that you can easily walk and dance in your chosen shoes and try to match any other accessories or dress embellishments to your outfit and the masquerade’s theme for the best look.
Masquerade Outfit Ideas for Women
Selecting your masquerade outfit generally involves shopping for formal dresses or ball gowns. Depending on the theme of your masquerade, you may want to invest in a dramatic dress in a bold or bright color, or you may want to play it more classic with a black cocktail dress.
Because there are so many different themes and potential dress code requirements, it can be hard to suggest an exact outfit for your masquerade. Women will typically be expected to wear a formal gown or a cocktail dress, though you may be able to wear a jumpsuit or tailored evening suit if dresses aren’t your thing.
Examples of masquerade outfit ideas for women include:
- Dramatic ball gowns with lots of ruffles and a mask
- A simple black dress and black mask
- A flapper-style shorter evening dress and matching mask
- Formal evening gowns in a variety of solid colors or dresses with patterns and embellishments
Always double-check dress code requirements if you have concerns about what to wear for your masquerade event.
Masquerade Outfit Ideas for Men
Dressing for a masquerade for men isn’t the most complicated thing, but you will need to make sure you have a mask, as masks are required for the majority of masquerades. In addition to a stylish mask that matches your outfit, you can wear a suit in any color, a tuxedo if the masquerade is more formal, or a more elaborate outfit.
Halloween masquerades will typically give you more freedom with the dress code, and you might be able to blend the masquerade theme with a spooky costume to embrace the theme.
Make sure that you pair your outfit and mask with a decent pair of shoes that allow you to move and dance comfortably. Always choose an outfit that is tailored for your figure so you can look and feel your best.
Preparing for Your Masquerade
When you start to get ready for your big night, there are a few things you should keep in mind. We give you pointers on how to properly prepare for your masquerade and ensure your outfit turns all of the heads in the room.
- Before the big night, make sure that you have confirmed details about the theme, dress code, or any requirements that the host of the party might have, such as certain colors or types of masks to bring.
- Shop for your masquerade outfit a few months or weeks ahead of time. This gives you a chance to try your outfit on and get used to it, something that helps you become more comfortable and ready to dance on the night of your masquerade.
- On the night of the masquerade, style your hair and apply any makeup you want to wear in a way that matches your dress and the theme of the event. This could mean a darker smokey look for a spooky Halloween masquerade or a fun, bright look for a summer masquerade.
- Put the finishing touches on your outfit and add any accessories you want, such as jewelry, jackets, hair accessories, and shawls, and get ready to head to your party. Show up on time to make sure that you can fully enjoy your entire night.
- Don’t forget to have fun as you dance the night away! Take lots of pictures with your friends or date to remember the fun times of your first masquerade and the masquerade outfit that makes you feel your best.
If you have any questions or concerns about your masquerade outfit or how to get ready for your masquerade, don’t hesitate to double-check the venue and the dress code, or speak to a friend who has attended a masquerade before for pointers on how to act and get your outfit ready.
Making the Most of Your Masquerade Night
Masquerades are a unique type of party, and they are often considered a costume party. Masquerade outfits range from more modest to full-out ball gowns and tuxedos, and you can be sure that plenty of masquerade masks will be present on attendees.
Carefully review your masquerade’s dress code and our masquerade outfit ideas to get ready for your event and make the most of your masquerade night.
