What to Wear to a Masquerade Party: Masquerade Ball Dressing Tip

Knowing what to wear to a masquerade party can help you narrow down your best picks based on time constraints, budget, and overall preference. It’s also crucial to gather ideas for masquerade dresses and masks and keep these details handy should a holiday party suddenly pop into your already busy schedule!

In this article, we cover masquerade ball mask ideas, masquerade ball outfits for couples, and so much more.

What is the typical dress code for a masquerade ball?

In the olden days when masquerade balls had just peaked in popularity, formal wear was always the custom dress code. Men would don a suit while women would have the most elegant masquerade dress, both guests with intricate masquerade masks to complete the look.

However, modern masquerade parties aren’t as stringent. Hosts can now dictate specific themes, and even opt to have a more laid-back event which would call for casual masquerade party outfits. Ironically, the more freedom a guest has when it comes to their attire, the more challenging it may be to pick one. Let’s cut to the chase and get you party-ready with these tips below!

Understanding formal and semi-formal attire for masquerade events

If the invite calls for semi-formal attire, it’s important not to go too casual, but still be able to add a little fun and flair to the ensemble. In a general sense, what you wear should be something you would rock to a cocktail party or even a wedding, but not to brunch, no matter if it’s in Wine County.

An invite specifying formal attire, on the other hand, requires more on full-length gowns, tuxedos, and similar looks.

How to interpret the event's theme for your outfit choice

Depending on the theme, you can adjust your outfit colors, level of formality, and accessories. For instance, winter-themed balls may call for shades of blue, white, and silver with snowflake details and a glittery statement clutch. Tropical-themed events could mean a multi-colored dress with frills and layers, paired with dangling feather earrings.

Balancing elegance and creativity in your masquerade ensemble

No matter the theme, masquerade events are known to exude elegance and mystery. This is not only expressed through the intricate attire expected from each guest, but it is also depicted in the way these parties are decorated, how the venue lighting is strategized, and even in the music filling the space all night. Little details such as a splash of color, a pattern, or even just through your mask are where you can playfully add your touch of creativity.

How to choose the perfect masquerade mask?

When it comes to your party outfit, one of the most important aspects (if not the most important) is your masquerade mask. While it may seem secondary and merely an accessory, the mask is what makes the masquerade ball unique from the rest of the events. Through concealing one’s identity, the true essence of a masquerade comes to life. Because of this, it is essential to choose the right mask to complete your look.

From Dia de los Muertos masks to animal-inspired pieces, and those pattered after Mardi Gras, you are sure to find the perfect piece for you.

Types of masquerade masks and their significance

There are seven main masquerade mask types. To choose one that best suits you or the persona you are trying to portray, we highlight each of their significance below.

#1 The Bauta: This was the standard mask in political events, often worn by men who want to appear powerful yet disappear into the crowd to avoid the consequences of their actions, political or otherwise.

 

#2 The Colombina: The mask with the least coverage, is perfect for guests who don’t mind getting attention, but do the bare minimum to keep their identity unknown.

#3 The Medico della Peste: This mask is a nod to the doctors during the plague. In modern times, it is perfect for history buffs and guests who prefer eccentric looks.

#4 The Voto: For the character who wants absolute anonymity and to keep a low profile throughout the evening.

#5 The Pantalone: For the extroverted persona who has the ability to flawlessly strike up (and carry) conversations, multiply his social circle, and tell the best jokes, all while being one of the smartest in the room.

#6 The Arlecchino: Also known as the Joker mask, this is perfect for those who want to depict a prankster who isn’t afraid to poke fun at himself.

#7 The Zanni: The meaning behind this playful mask is a fun-loving persona with a witty character who wants to be completely unrecognizable.

Matching your mask to your outfit for a cohesive look

To create a smooth transition from your mask down to the rest of your look, consider the colors and embellishments on your mask. Opt for either matching shades or complementary hues, and ensure that whatever details you have on your suit or dress can also be found on your mask. 

DIY mask ideas for those who don't want to spend too much

While there are seven main types of masquerade masks, this doesn’t mean to say you can’t make one on your own to custom fit your style and preferences of the night. What you wear should showcase the exact persona you want to portray without being limited to ready-made designs, and we have blank masks specifically for this reason. Once you place an order, get your paint, feathers, sequins, lace, and other details ready to go!

What are some stunning dress options for women attending a masquerade party?

Masquerade dresses for women come in a variety of styles, especially when you put your own spin on them. Below are some of the best ideas to bring to life this season.

Ball gowns and evening dresses: Making a grand entrance

A floor-length ensemble that hugs your physique at the top and starts to flow flawlessly towards its train can make for a grand entrance. Choose a design that best speaks to you and compliments your natural features. For instance, those with stunning collarbones can show it off with an off-shoulder neckline while those with beautiful long legs may opt for a higher slit. If you want to add more volume, choose a fabric that dances along with the wind such as tulle, organza, and ruffles.

Cocktail dresses and midi options for a more versatile look

For semi-formal parties, it would be best to keep your ball gown tucked in the closet as it’s high time for your cocktail dress or midi ensemble to shine. While these don’t offer extravagance like ball gowns do, you can turn heads by opting for show-stopping hues, volumizing fabric, and intricate details such as sequins, feathers, florals, and more.

What should men wear to a masquerade ball?

You don’t think we forgot about the dashing men in your life, did you? Formal wear for men has continually elevated through the years, especially when the wearer has a flair for challenging gender norms. The masquerade is the perfect place to explore his fashion and push the limits.

Tuxedos and formal suits: Classic choices for sophistication

Tuxedos and suits are the basis of any sophisticated outfit for men. However, it’s in the rich shades, the minute details in the cut, and how you choose to pair them with other elements that make each ensemble stand out.

Adding flair to men's outfits with masks

Even if the wearer opts to go with a standard tuxedo or suit, a mask is more than enough to create a dashing masquerade look. Some of our top head-turning pieces for men include our red mask collection, our gold mask collection, and masks for those who wear eyeglasses.

Going as a couple? We’ve got something for every pair from our couple’s mask collection.

Creative alternatives to traditional formal wear for masquerade parties

If you want to get creative without going too over the top, opt for a suede blazer with matching colored pants in darker hues. Alternatively, a patterned undershirt makes for a great focal point under an all-dark suit. Lastly, if eccentricity is your preference, perhaps a tailcoat or a top hat is up your alley.

How to accessorize your masquerade outfit?

Extravagance is the norm in a masquerade ball, but there is a fine line between elegance and tackiness in the quest to achieve it. Below are a few guidelines when it comes to controlling how much your accessories can take over your look

Selecting the right jewelry to complement your mask and dress

There are 3 main things to consider when selecting your jewelry: Metals, Layers, and Focal Point. When it comes to metals, you can either opt for one that matches your mask or dress or mix it up to add texture. For instance, if your mask and dress have silver metals, try complementing them with rose gold jewelry.

When it comes to layers and choosing a focal point, be careful not to over-accessorize. Select a statement piece that you want to highlight and the rest can be secondary. For instance, a heavy necklace would be better without earrings to hog the spotlight. Similarly, a statement ring is better with a minimal-looking bracelet, or no bracelet at all.

Choosing the perfect clutch or evening bag

Take into consideration the jewelry guide above as it may apply to your evening bags, too. Opt for one that isn’t big enough to catch attention, but isn’t too small that it defeats the purpose of bringing one. Moreover, the material and style should complement what is used on your dress and mask

What are some budget-friendly masquerade outfits to try?

The holidays can weigh heavy on our finances, but your masquerade outfit doesn’t need to add to the load!

Transforming existing formal wear into masquerade-worthy ensembles

Add a dash of finesse to an old gown using accessories and embellishments. By tweaking existing pieces with feathers, ruffles, sequins, and the like, you can create a whole new look for a whole lot less.

Crafting isn’t your strong suit? Adding a layer of fabric to drape around your waist or turning the neckline to an off-shoulder are other ways to revamp your oldie-but-goodie garment.

Affordable mask options to elevate your look

Getting a blank mask and 1-2 colors of paint are more than enough to personalize your look and elevate your outfit. You may even opt for a hand-held mask design for a more unique look!

You’re All Set!

We hope this sheds some light on what to wear to a masquerade party and how you can elevate your look through a few pieces.