Mardi Gras Costume Boutiques: A Festive Louisiana Tradition

The History and Significance of Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras has its roots in medieval Europe, originating as a celebration that preceded the fasting and austerity of Lent. It made its way over to French Louisiana in the late 17th century, where it developed into the colorful spectacle we know today. The term "Mardi Gras" actually means "Fat Tuesday" in French, referring to the last night of indulgence and feasting before Ash Wednesday.

Over the centuries, Mardi Gras has become an iconic cultural tradition in Louisiana. It serves as a chance for communities to come together, parade colorful floats through the streets, and enjoy festive costumes and vibrancy before the more sombre Lenten season begins.

Signature Aspects of Mardi Gras Celebrations

When most people think of Mardi Gras, a few key aspects come to mind:

• Colorful beaded necklaces, known as throws, that parade-goers try to catch
• Elite krewes that organize parades and host exclusive balls
• Intricate floats often centered around a theme
• Masquerade masks and lavish costumes worn by attendees
• The iconic King Cakes covered in purple, gold, and green sugar

But there are a few aspects that truly set New Orleans Mardi Gras celebrations apart from others:

Bourbon Street Festivities

Bourbon Street transforms into an endless party during Mardi Gras season. Beads are flying through the air, music blasts through bar doors, and festival-goers sport their most extravagant outfits. Walking through Bourbon Street during the peak of Mardi Gras gives you a palpable taste of the city's vibrant energy.

The Intricacy of the Costumes

From sequined masks to feathered capes and hand-sewn ball gowns, it's the ornate detail of Mardi Gras fashion that makes it truly spectacular. Louisiana locals spend months - sometimes up to a full year - meticulously planning and assembling their Mardi Gras costumes to prepare for the big celebrations.

The Emergence of Specialty Mardi Gras Boutiques

With costume planning being such an integral part of Louisiana Mardi Gras traditions, specialty boutiques catering to festival fashion have begun cropping up across the state.

These shops offer everything from custom-made masks and headdresses to pre-made costume packages with full ball gowns and capes. Their emergence points towards the growing demand for an easy yet personalized approach to Mardi Gras style.

Masquerade Express

Located in Baton Rouge, Masquerade Express has built a reputation for its dazzling selection of high-end masks adorned with feathers, rhinestones, and vibrant details. They also offer headpieces, boas, costumes, makeup, and specialty accessories available to buy year-round.

Bywater Baubles Bazaar

This New Orleans boutique is a go-to for curated throws and specialty baubles so parade-goers can catch beads with their own personalized flair. Their embellished masks pay homage to traditional Venetian styles while seamlessly blending modern sensibilities.

The Velvet Whisker

The Velvet Whisker provides custom-made fur suits alongside its array of feathered masquerade masks and bold headdresses. Based in Lafayette, it has styled costumes for several Mardi Gras krewe royalty court members over the years.

Carnaval Costumes

Located in crowdy French Quarter, Carnaval Costumes has been outfitting festival-goers since 1930. Their stock includes high quality satin, lace, velvet materials alongside a trove of accessories like capes, scepters, and decorative hand fans.

What to Expect When Visiting a Mardi Gras Boutique

Stepping into a dedicated Mardi Gras costume and accessories shop provides a wholly immersive experience. You'll be surrounded by the sights and textures of Crescent City extravagance.

A Dazzling Array of Costumes

Racks filled to the brim with vivid colors and decadent fabrics like chiffons, silks, sequins, lace, velvets, and feathers greet you upon entering. You may spot full ball gowns in royal purple hues, emerald suits with golden embellishments, and candy-colored masks dripping in rhinestones.

Walls Lined with Signature Accessories

The walls gleam with hallmark Mardi Gras accessories like beaded necklaces, novelty throws, boas in every color, decorative scepters, and peacock-esque fans. You'll likely also spot masquerade masks in all shapes and sizes ranging from full face Venetian styles with metallic filigree to half masks dusted with glitter.

Handcrafted Attention to Detail

Many local New Orleans Mardi Gras shops hand-make their wares, lending careful artisanship and attention to detail into each piece. You may catch a seamstress stitching glass beads onto a custom designed ball skirt or a milliner shaping and trimming an oversized hat.

Inspiration for Creative Costumes

Visiting a dedicated Mardi Gras boutique sparks inspiration for crafting your own signature Carnival look. You can pick pre-designed costume sets or mix and match single statement pieces like a feathered hair clip and sequined Cavalier jacket.

Tips for Finding Your Perfect Mardi Gras Outfit

Shop Early

Especially if you want something fully custom-made, visit shops well in advance - up to 6 months ahead - to allow adequate time for design, assembly, and fittings.

Bring Your Vision

Have a general color scheme or aesthetic in mind before entering a Mardi Gras specialty shop. Knowing details like "I'd like a blue and silver ballgown with matching feather hairpiece" helps narrow the selection process.

Try On Different Silhouettes

You don't have to commit to a full ball skirt if it doesn't feel like you. Try different costume shapes like crop tops with full feather skirts or slim halter dresses. Find what flatters your body best.

Plan for Mobility

Consider if you'll need to walk long parade routes or navigate large crowds. Choosing lightweight fabrics and minimal beading allows more freedom of movement than ultra ornate ball gowns.

Accessorize for Impact

The right Mardi Gras accessories take an outfit from standard to spectacular. Add statement necklaces, hairpieces, masks, fans, or scepters to infuse extra persona and depth into your look.

Honoring a Long-Standing Festive Tradition

Visiting local Mardi Gras costume and accessories boutiques allows you to directly support and participate in keeping New Orleans rich Carnival traditions alive. Behind the rows of shimmering outfits exist artisans, shop owners, and designers deeply passionate about their craft.

So whether you're looking to catch signature throws along the parade route or dress to impress at an exclusive hotel ball, turn to dedicated Mardi Gras shops. They offer the easiest way to honor festive Crescent City traditions in spectacular style.

FAQs

Where are some top Mardi Gras specialty boutiques located?

Some of the best and most renowned Mardi Gras costume shops in Louisiana include Masquerade Express in Baton Rouge, Bywater Baubles Bazaar in New Orleans, The Velvet Whisker in Lafayette, and Carnaval Costumes in New Orleans.

How far in advance should I order a custom Mardi Gras outfit?

If wanting something fully customized like a bespoke ball gown or masquerade ensemble, it's best to visit Mardi Gras boutiques 6 months in advance. This provides adequate time for design consultation, fabric sourcing, assembly, and fitting alterations before the big event.

What are some signature Mardi Gras accessories?

Signature Mardi Gras accessories include beaded necklaces and throws, feathered masks, fancy decorative fans, boas, hairpieces like feather hair clips, scepters, and long gloves. Headpieces and statement shoes also lend finished polish.

What fabrics are commonly used for Mardi Gras costumes?

Popular fabrics used for lavish Carnival outfits include satins, chiffons, lace, sequined or beaded fabrics, velvets, and light silks that drape nicely. Feathers, faux furs, ribbons, and tulle for full skirts may provide decorative accents.