What to Wear in a Mardi Gras Party

Many people think of Mardi Gras as a uniquely New Orleans tradition, but its roots trace back to old Europe. The carnival custom came from France, where “Mardi Gras” literally means “Fat Tuesday.” It's the day to indulge in rich foods and celebration before the solemn season of Lent begins. Cities like Venice, with its iconic carnival, and regions in France, known for lavish feasts, played a major role in shaping this tradition. People would celebrate one last time — eating heavy foods, drinking wine, and wearing masks to allow themselves a bit more freedom than usual.

What Is a Mardi Gras Party for Adults?

The Roots of Mardi Gras: From Europe to the New World

In the late 17th century, when French colonists founded New Orleans, they brought their carnival customs with them. In 1699, Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville arrived on the shores of what is now Louisiana and named the landing site “Pointe du Mardi Gras,” realizing they had reached the New World on the very day of the grand celebration back home.

New Orleans: Masquerade Nights and Carnival Magic

It wasn't until more than a century and a half after Mardi Gras arrived in Louisiana that the celebration gained official status in New Orleans. By the 19th century, as trade and culture flourished, Mardi Gras had evolved into more than just a religious holiday — it had become the event of the year, setting the standard for street festivals everywhere.

The very first parade took place in 1837, but it was still far from the extravagant spectacle we see today. In the early 1800s, New Orleans locals began forming secret societies known as krewes — private organizations responsible for planning themed parades and designing the carnival's pageantry.

Mardi Gras isn't just a street party — it's a meticulously choreographed, almost ritualistic celebration. Every krewe spends an entire year preparing for their moment: picking a theme, crafting costumes, designing floats, and building the magical atmosphere that defines the season. But what truly makes Mardi Gras special is the spirit of total freedom. There are no mere spectators here — whether you're the parade king or a first-time tourist, you become part of the show.

A central tradition of the celebration is catching the items thrown into the crowd — beaded necklaces, shiny coins, and quirky trinkets — all considered good luck charms. The more “trophies” you collect around your neck, the more triumphant your Mardi Gras experience has been.

What Are the Colors to Wear for Mardi Gras?

The Symbolism of Mardi Gras Colors

• Purple represents justice. Historically, purple dye was rare and expensive, reserved for royalty and nobility. In the context of Mardi Gras, it symbolizes honesty, dignity, and strong moral values.

• Green stands for faith. As the color of spring and new life, it represents renewal, hope, and spiritual rebirth during the celebration.

• Gold symbolizes power. Associated with wealth, the sun, and royal splendor, gold in Mardi Gras reflects strength, confidence, and vibrant life energy.

Purple as a Symbol of Justice and Power in Mardi Gras

Of all the colors associated with Mardi Gras, purple carries the greatest symbolic weight. Throughout the centuries, this regal shade has been linked with power and luxury, traditionally reserved for society's most influential classes. In the context of the festival, purple merges the ideas of justice and royal majesty.

As a symbol of justice, purple has long been used to represent impartiality and the rule of law. In Western culture, judges and high-ranking officials often wear robes made of purple fabric, emphasizing their neutrality, objectivity, and commitment to fair judgment.

From the perspective of royal power, purple has for centuries been considered the color of nobility. In ancient Rome, it was associated with emperors, since producing purple dye from Mediterranean sea snails was extremely difficult and expensive. Thanks to its rarity, this color became a symbol of authority and privilege.

Gold as a Symbol of Power and Wealth in Mardi Gras

Gold is one of the three traditional colors of Mardi Gras, symbolizing power and wealth. For centuries, gold has been considered the embodiment of strength and status, and even today, it retains its significance across many cultures. During Mardi Gras, this color is used throughout various elements of the celebration to convey a sense of luxury and influence.

• Gold Beads. One of the most popular Mardi Gras souvenirs is gold beads—shiny necklaces thrown to spectators by parade participants, especially krewe members. It's believed that the more gold beads a person has, the higher their status and symbolic wealth.

• Gold Costumes. Many parade participants wear extravagant costumes made of gold fabrics or adorned with gold accessories, emphasizing grandeur, festiveness, and the powerful image they want to present.

• Gold Doubloons. Along with beads, decorative gold coins called doubloons are often handed out, bearing the krewe's emblem. These are especially prized by collectors as memorable symbols of the festival.

Gold has long been regarded as a mark of prosperity, largely because of its rarity and value. For centuries, it has been used as a measure of wealth and a way to accumulate and display riches. Across various cultures, gold continues to stand for stability and prosperity.

That's why, when it comes to Mardi Gras, incorporating gold—whether in costumes, decorations, or accessories—is a way to highlight the grandeur and strength of the participants. Gold remains an essential part of the festival's atmosphere, representing magnificence and celebration at every turn.

Green as a Symbol of Faith and Fertility in Mardi Gras

Green is one of the three main colors of Mardi Gras, along with purple and gold. It symbolizes faith, fertility, and the renewal of life that comes with spring. The color is closely associated with nature, growth, and the start of a new cycle—from the awakening of the earth to the hope for abundance and prosperity.

• Green: A Symbol of Faith and Spirituality. Green serves as a reminder of Mardi Gras's religious roots, emphasizing the importance of spiritual values within the community.

• The Color of Fertility and Growth. Green reflects the natural cycles of life—birth, death, and rebirth—and comes as a sign of spring and new beginnings.

• Connection to Nature. In some traditions, green also represents the earth itself, reminding us of the importance of respecting the environment and caring for the planet's future.

Green is commonly used in costumes, masks, beads, and other accessories. It also decorates parade floats in the form of leaves, garlands, and floral arrangements, adding a special energy and freshness to the festivities.

To truly appreciate the meaning of green in Mardi Gras, it's important to understand its symbolism—whether you're taking part in the celebrations or simply watching them. The vibrant, life-affirming color holds a deep significance that goes far beyond its eye-catching appearance.

What to Wear to a Mardi Gras Party

Popular Mardi Gras Costume Trends

1. Masquerade Masks

Masquerade masks are a timeless Mardi Gras classic. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors—from feathered designs to ones encrusted with jewels—making it easy to find the perfect accessory to match your look. The main idea behind these masks is to conceal your identity, which adds a fun air of mystery to your outfit and lets you stay a little incognito at the party.

2. Jester Costumes

Jesters are iconic figures in Mardi Gras history, famous for their playful, mischievous vibe. Jester costumes are usually bright and bold, with exaggerated details like tall hats, bells, and pom-poms. If you want to stand out, this is always a popular choice. You can go with a classic jester suit or put a modern spin on it—try a jester-inspired dress or jumpsuit for something different!

3. Feather Headdresses

Feathers are practically synonymous with Mardi Gras and are used in all sorts of decorations and attire. Feather headdresses, in particular, make a big statement—whether it's a simple headband with a few feathers or a dramatic show-stopping arrangement made from peacock or ostrich feathers. They're perfect for anyone looking to add extra flair and glamour to their ensemble.

4. Sequin Dresses

Nothing says Mardi Gras like a little sparkle! Sequin dresses are a popular choice for those who want to look glamorous during evening festivities. From short cocktail numbers to dramatic long gowns and fun jumpsuits, sequins reflect the party lights and fit right in with the celebration. Classic Mardi Gras colors like gold, green, and purple are always in style, but patterns and multi-colored designs work great, too.

5. Beaded Necklaces

Beaded necklaces—known as “throws”—are a beloved Mardi Gras tradition. Parade float riders toss dozens of these colorful strands into the crowd, and collecting as many as possible is part of the fun. These necklaces are an affordable way to jazz up any Mardi Gras look, and they're easy to mix and match for a bolder effect.

6. Carnival-Inspired Costumes

Feeling adventurous? Carnival-style outfits inspired by celebrations around the globe are increasingly popular at Mardi Gras. Think vibrant colors, bold patterns, and eye-catching accessories like jeweled tops, feathered skirts, and oversized headdresses. These costumes let you get creative, so you can always dream up something unique and unforgettable for the party.

Whether you go traditional or opt for something with your own twist, Mardi Gras is all about expressing yourself with color, sparkle, and a bit of mystery!

Mardi Gras Outifts Ideas for Couples and Groups

Looking to make a statement with your Mardi Gras crew or partner? Here are creative themes that are perfect for company or pair costumes, drawing on classic New Orleans flair and playful festival energy.

1. Masquerade Ball Gown

Step into the elegance and mystery of old-world New Orleans with a lavish masquerade ball gown.

• Choose a long, flowing dress with intricate lace or detailed beaded patterns.

• Pair the dress with a sequin-embellished masquerade mask and a feathered headpiece for a glamorous finish.

• This ensemble radiates sophistication and works beautifully for couples—one can don the ball gown, while the other arrives in a tuxedo and matching mask.

2. Jester Costume

Celebrate the mischievous spirit of Mardi Gras with coordinating jester outfits.

• Mix and match bold, bright colors and fabrics for a playful effect.

• Classic jester suits feature multi-colored jumpsuits with bells on the cuffs and ankles.

• Top it off with a hat adorned with pom-poms and complete the look using face paint for a touch of theatricality.

• Great as a group ensemble or an exuberant matching duo.

3. Pirate Costume

Pirate costumes infuse a sense of adventure and are always crowd-pleasers at Mardi Gras.

• Go for a leather jacket, striped pants, and a bandana tied around the head.

• Accessorize with a plastic sword and an eye patch to finish the swashbuckling look.

• Organize your group or partner in matching pirate-style garb for maximum impact.

4. Peacock Costume

Stand out in the crowd with the vibrant splendor of a peacock-themed costume.

• Wear a blue or green bodysuit with a tutu-style skirt at the waist.

• Attach a spray of fluffy, colorful feathers to the back of the skirt for the signature peacock tail.

• Use a headband decorated to mimic a peacock's crest.

• This costume works spectacularly for pairs, especially when both embrace the vivid peacock palette.

5. Flapper Costume

Throw it back to the extravagant parties of the 1920s with a flapper-inspired look.

• Choose a knee-length dress adorned with fringe, a headband, and feathers.

• Accessorize with long gloves, pearl necklaces, and a cigarette holder for a touch of vintage glamour.

• This theme is perfect for couples or groups, particularly in a jazz-age or speakeasy vibe.

6. Superhero Costume

If you'd rather save the day, superhero costumes let you channel your

inner comic book favorite.

• Pick any iconic hero or heroine and don their signature bodysuit, cape, and boots.

• Accessorize with a utility belt and mask to keep your identity under wraps.

• Coordinate as a dynamic duo or assemble a team of superheroes for an epic group entrance.

Tip: No matter what you choose, Mardi Gras is about bold colors, playful details, and letting your imagination run free. Pair up or group together for maximum effect—the only limit is your creativity!

These days, Mardi Gras is a symbol of New Orleans' multicultural spirit. French, Spanish, African, and American traditions have all come together in this festival, creating something more than just a carnival. It's a day when the city's constant hustle comes to a halt, and jazz music, laughter, and unity take center stage. After all, in a world where every day can feel like a battle, sometimes you just need to let yourself dance in the streets in a mask, without fear of judgment, and shout at the top of your lungs: “Laissez les bons temps rouler!”—“Let the good times roll!”