History and Style Guide to Iconic Mardi Gras Tuxedo Jackets

The History of Mardi Gras and Its Iconic Tuxedo Jackets

Mardi Gras is one of the biggest annual celebrations globally, famous for its flashy costumes, colorful parades, and elaborate masks and accessories. The traditional Mardi Gras tuxedo jacket has become an iconic part of the event's distinctive style and culture over the years.

The Origins of Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras can trace its roots back to medieval Europe when people would celebrate and indulge themselves before the fasting season of Lent. As French, Spanish, and Portuguese explorers brought these traditions over to America, they began to intermix with local customs and developed into the modern Mardi Gras celebrations.

The first organized Mardi Gras street parade is believed to have taken place in 1837 in New Orleans. This set the template for the elaborate floats, balls, kings and queens of carnival that we still see today. New Orleans became the epicenter of all things Mardi Gras and the model other cities followed when they started their own carnival seasons.

The Emergence of Signature Jackets

In the late 1800s, formal attire like tuxedos and tailcoats became popular among the Mardi Gras krewes. They wanted to bring some old-world European elegance and aristocratic flair to their costumes. This formalwear also fit the lavish balls and coronation ceremonies held during the carnival season.

To put their own spin on things, krewe members started embellishing these formal jackets and tailcoats using the official colors of their parade krewes. The jackets incorporated feathers, sequins, ribbons, crystals and more in vibrant hues like purple, green and gold.

The Iconic Mardi Gras Tuxedo Jacket Style

Today, the tuxedo jacket is deeply ingrained in New Orleans Mardi Gras culture. However, styling has evolved over the decades.

The classic style features a standard black tuxedo jacket tailored to a more slim-cut silhouette. It sports long coattails and satin lapels with the official parade colors integrated throughout. You may see colorful accents on the cuffs, stitching or back panel.

Some modern twists involve more elaborate feather, rhinestone or embroidery embellishments. Others have taken inspiration from the 18th century long tailcoats, paying homage to the early European roots of carnival.

Where to Buy Your Authentic Mardi Gras Tuxedo Jacket

To experience Mardi Gras properly, you need to look the part with an iconic tuxedo jacket steeped in tradition and meaning. Here are some top places to buy yours:

Shop in New Orleans

For the true, authentic Mardi Gras shop experience, you can't beat heading straight to New Orleans. The city has dozens of boutiques and stores catering specifically to carnival costumes and attire. Experts can help select signature colors and styles particular to each krewe.

Popular spots include Masquerade Costume Shop, La Costumer, and Royal Street Costumes – all located conveniently in the lively French Quarter area.

Order Custom Online

Can't make it to New Orleans in person? Many online retailers now create tailored Mardi Gras tuxedo jackets to your custom specifications.

Provide your measurements, choose colors and trims, and select jacket style details. Reputable makers like New Orleans Costumes or Carnaval Shoppe will then handcraft and ship your unique tux jacket directly to you.

Buy Off the Rack

For convenience, many online sites also carry pre-made Mardi Gras jackets ready to buy off the rack. Inventory varies but you can typically find an array of styles and sizes.

Top online stores include Mardi Gras Spot, The Costume Shoppe or Fat Tuesday Tuxedos – all offering expedited shipping across the US.

How to Style Your Mardi Gras Tuxedo Jacket

Once you secure the perfect Mardi Gras jacket, it's time to pull the rest of your outfit together. Here are some top tips for styling your look:

Stick to Black and White

Keep the base colors classic with well-fitted black pants, white dress shirt, black bow tie or neck tie and black shoes or boots. This lets the vibrant jacket stand out as the statement piece.

Add Mardi Gras Flair

Look for a cummerbund, vest or other accessories featuring your jacket's signature colors. Or adorn your neck and lapel with strands of shiny beads or feathers.

Consider a Mask or Hat

Take your outfit up another level with a colorful feathered mask or a black top hat with ribbon hatband in your krewe's custom colors.

Just avoid heavy face makeup so your tuxedo jacket and accessories can take prime focus in photos and during the parade.

With a traditional tailored tuxedo jacket as your foundation, it's easy to build a show-stopping Mardi Gras costume that celebrates this vibrant holiday in style. Shop early online for custom work or selections off the rack – and get ready to let the good times roll!

FAQs

Why do people wear tuxedo jackets for Mardi Gras?

The tuxedo jacket is inspired by the formalwear popular among early Mardi Gras krewes in the late 1800s. It brings an air of old-world aristocracy and elegance to the modern carnival costumes.

What colors should my Mardi Gras tuxedo jacket be?

Choose the signature colors of the specific Mardi Gras parade krewe you wish to celebrate. Common colors are purple, green and gold, but customs vary.

Where is the best place to buy a Mardi Gras jacket?

For an authentic experience, shop at one of dozens of specialty Mardi Gras costume stores located in New Orleans itself. Many also sell custom-made jackets online.

What's the best way to accessorize my tux?

Look for a colored cummerbund, bow tie or feathered mask matching your jacket's custom colors. Strands of beads or a top hat also make stylish statements.