What to Wear to a Masquerade Ball
A masquerade ball isn’t just any old party. It’s not even any old gala ball. This is your chance to indulge in the luxury of anonymity, to cultivate an air of mystery and become someone else for the evening — someone you’ve always wanted to be.
OK, that’s enough with the romantic intrigue. What the heck should you wear to a masquerade ball?
In this article, we’re giving you a few ideas, starting with the obvious. The mask.
The mask
When you’re going to a masquerade ball, the first thing you’ll need is a mask. Remember, you’re masquerading — pretending to be someone else — and a mask is a major part of the deal.
What kind of mask? Well, it has to be comfortable. You’ll be talking and laughing, eating, drinking and dancing in this mask so try to avoid anything made of plastic. It will be unpleasantly sweaty.
Genuine Venetian masks are made from papier-mâché, often decorated with gold leaf and precious gem stones. We’re not suggesting you go this far, although it’s worth looking for a papier-mâché mask. They’re more comfortable. Once warmed by the skin, the mask adjusts to the shape of your face so you won’t be ripping it off with a sigh of relief at the earliest opportunity.
Your choice of mask says a lot about you, so let’s look at a few options.
Masks for women
The Colombina (or little dove) is the most popular women’s mask. You see it everywhere throughout the Venetian Carnival.
It’s a half-mask covering the eyes, nose and upper cheeks which takes its name from a character in the Italian commedia dell’arte. Colombina is a clever and witty maidservant, often the subject of amorous advances, but always on top of the situation thanks to her cunning, mischievous nature.
The Colombina mask is versatile. It can be relatively simple, or extravagantly decorated with gemstones and feathers.
The Gatto (or cat) is, unsurprisingly, a mask in the shape of a cat. It covers the forehead and upper face, leaving only the mouth visible. It provides more anonymity than the Colombina, giving its wearer a seductive air of mystery and intrigue.
The Gatto mask has characteristic pointy ears, a small snub nose and almond eyes. It’s often decorated with rich colours and a contrasting metallic finish.
In 15th century Venice, cats were more than just pets. They were highly revered as saviours of the city because they protected it against an invasion of rats and mice. Venetians have had a particular fondness for cats ever since.
Masks for men
The Domino is a small, rounded mask which usually covers only the eyes and bridge of the nose. To be super-anonymous, try wearing it with a Domino costume — a cloak and hood — either in black, or in white and blue.
Actually, the Domino isn’t just for men. Back in the day, the mask and costume was worn by both males and females, the idea being that women could be men and vice versa. The Carnival was about turning convention on its head and, on some occasions, behaving pretty shamelessly.
Pulcinella was almost certainly the inspiration behind the character Mr Punch. The Pulcinella is a half-mask with round eyeholes, a characteristic beaky nose and sometimes a lump on the left temple.
Pulcinella represents the everyday, hard-working man — a simple servant who’s unlucky in love but finds a way to smile and carry on. In Naples, where the character originated, he represents good luck. He’s also known for outfoxing the rich in order to benefit the poor, a bit like Robin Hood.
Classic Pulcinella masks were always black or dark brown, but these days they’re made in a variety of different colours — particularly black, white and gold.
The rest of your outfit
The thing about a masquerade ball is that it’s not actually fancy dress. If you’re someone who’d rather chew their own arms off than attend a fancy dress party, this is good news.
If you’re a fan of fancy dress, you can always throw in a few imaginative touches to compliment the drama and mystery of the mask. However, you don’t have to. The mask itself should always be the focal point.
And remember, it’s a ball. A level of refined formality goes with the territory.
Masquerade ball outfits for men
At a formal masquerade ball, men should opt for the `black tie’ look. It’s generally a tuxedo or dark coloured suit, although if you’d like more detailed information than that, check out our article What exactly is a black tie event? You’ll find lots of useful tips.
Pair the suit or tuxedo with a bow tie or a cravat — and, for the all-important drama, maybe some gloves or even a cape.
Darker colours usually lend themselves to the mystery and intrigue of a masquerade ball, but they’re not compulsory. Feel free to experiment with the brighter colours of the Venetian Carnival.
Masquerade ball outfits for women
Women should go for a formal or semi-formal outfit like a ballgown, cocktail dress or jumpsuit in rich opulent fabrics such as silk, satin, velvet or lace.
Traditional Venetian colours are jewel tones — emerald green, midnight blue, scarlet, burgundy and gold — although you don’t have to stick to these. Just make sure to pick a colour which harmonises with the mask.
Bold accessories aren’t necessary for this type of event. Necklaces and earrings in particular can detract from the mask, so it’s best to keep jewellery simple. As for shoes, the same rule applies. After all, no one will be paying attention to your feet.
So, that’s what to wear. Now all you need is an opportunity to show off your outfit. At West End Events, we organise masquerade balls in cities all over the UK. Check out our shared Christmas parties to find a masquerade ball near you.
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