How to Dress for a Mardi Gras Ball

Mardi Gras balls are formal black-tie events. You should dress to the nines and expect a night of dining and dancing. Women dress in elegant evening gowns and men sport their best tuxedos. Here are some suggestions to help you select the proper attire for your special evening.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Prepare to wear formal attire. Whether you are male or female, a Mardi Gras Ball is a black tie event and is taken very seriously.

2. Choose a black tuxedo and black tie if you are male. Women should wear an elegant evening gown, preferably in purple, gold or green, the traditional colors of Mardi Gras.

3. Make sure your shoes are comfortable, as there will be ballroom dancing throughout the evening. Women are expected to wear heels and men should arrive in well-shined shoes.

4. Select jewelry that will compliment your attire. This is not the time to wear anything gaudy. This a time for you to dress luxe, so you might want to break out that Rolex or those sparkling diamond earrings.

5. Carry a small evening bag if you are a woman, to hold any loose items, such as lipstick, keys or money.

Tips & Warnings

• Women should wear an evening gown that will allow them to move freely on the dance floor. Dresses should not pose a risk of tripping by hanging down too far below the heel of the shoe.
• If you are renting a tuxedo for the ball, make sure you try it on a few weeks before the event to allow for any last minute alterations that need to be made.