How to Costume for Mardi Gras

It wouldn't be Mardi Gras without the costumes. A close second to Halloween when it comes to dressing up and pretending to be somebody else, Mardi Gras is characterized by festive and often raunchy costumes. This is the perfect time to be as outrageous as you'd like.

Instructions

Choose the Perfect Mardi Gras Costume

1. Choose a comfortable costume. Clothes that are too tight, too short or too heavy may be O.K. in the morning, but will probably feel a lot less comfortable just a couple of hours later. As you're shopping for your costume, keep in mind that you will more than likely spend the whole day, and part of the night, in it.

2. Wear a mask or a crazy hat if you're not in the mood for a full costume. It will get you into the mood of the day without having to carry the weight of additional clothes.

3. Pick a classic costume if you want to join in the festivities. Court jesters, showgirls and cowboys are classic Mardi Gras costumes. Alternatively, you could wear a period dress to honor the French heritage of New Orleans.

4. Show off and revel in Mardi Gras excesses. Wear boas, beads and feathers, and don contrasting colors and accessories that are too big and flashy to wear at any other time. Flamboyant shoes, hats and accessories are all integral to the celebration.

5. Choose at least one item bearing the traditional Mardi Gras colors: green, purple or gold. If you can find a whole costume incorporating those colors, wear it to liven up your celebration. If not, concentrate on accessories.

6. Take a sweater if your costume is very light or wear a t-shirt underneath if it is very heavy. As the weather changes throughout the night, or as you move from the street to an indoor setting, you may be more comfortable if you can change the way you're dressed.

Tips & Warnings

• The best place to find a Mardi Gras costume is a Halloween store. Both online and walk-in shops offer a variety of costumes to suit any taste and budget. However, don't stop there. Look in thrift shops and garage sales for second-hand clothes that can be turned into costumes with a little imagination and lots of accessories.

• Children who don't like the idea of wearing masks may be more comfortable with face paint. Many places in New Orleans organize lessons during the week of Mardi Gras, allowing parents and children to learn to use face paints safely and creatively.