15 Mardi Gras Outfits for Women | Festival Style Guide 2026
Mardi Gras outfits for women are all about embracing bold colors, dramatic accessories, and unapologetic sparkle. Whether you’re heading to the parades in New Orleans or throwing a Fat Tuesday bash at home, your outfit should scream celebration.
The unofficial dress code? Purple for justice, green for faith, and gold for power—a trio that’s been festival royalty since 1872.
This isn’t the time for minimalist beige. We’re talking feather boas, sequined bodysuits, and masks that could double as art. From casual Mardi Gras outfit ideas to full-on masquerade ball gowns, these 15 looks will have you turning heads faster than a bead toss. Ready to find your festival alter ego?
Contents
- 1 The Roots of Mardi Gras Fashion
- 2 15 Stunning Mardi Gras Outfits for Women
- 2.1 1. The Classic Sequin Bodysuit with Tutu Skirt
- 2.2 Zeagoo Women’s Sleeveless Sparkle Shimmer Camisole Vest Glitter S…
- 2.3 Sequin Skirt Sparkly Skirt Belly Dance Skirt Glitter Skirt Rave S…
- 2.4 2Pcs Mardi Gras Outfit for Women Parade Hair Accessories Glitter …
- 2.5 2. Feathered Cape Over Metallic Jumpsuit
- 2.6 Mardi for Gras Mask with Feathers, 4PCS Masquerade Mask Party Sup…
- 2.7 5Pcs Mardi Gras Costume Set Shawl Scarf Poncho, Feather Headband,…
- 2.8 ZAKIA Women’s Black Natural Feather Shawl Cape Gothic Feather Shr…
- 2.9 MasqStudio Brocade Lace Masquerade Ball Mask Burlesque Mardi Gras…
- 2.10 Holmgren Mardi Gras Craft Feathers – 200pcs 5-7inch Rooster Feath…
- 2.11 3. Vintage-Inspired Corset and High-Waisted Shorts
- 2.12 4. Sequined Blazer Dress with Thigh-High Boots
- 2.13 Women’s Sequin Suit Jacket Open Front One Button Long Sleeve Blaz…
- 2.14 Women’s Glitter Sequin Cardigan Long Sleeve Sparkle Duster Evenin…
- 2.15 MANER Women’s Sequin Dress Sparkly Glitter V-Neck Sleeveless Part…
- 2.16 VERWIN Sequins Fashion Sleeveless Oblique Collar Mermaid Women’s …
- 2.17 5. DIY Mermaid-Inspired Ensemble
- 2.18 6. Masquerade Ball Gown with Victorian Sleeves
- 2.19 Women’s Sexy Sequin Feather Prom Dresses 2025 High Slit Deep V Ne…
- 2.20 Formal Dresses for Women Cocktail Sexy Off Shoulder Floor Length …
- 2.21 Ever-Pretty Women’s Sequin Formal Dress Sparkly V-Neck Short Slee…
- 2.22 7. Neon Rave-Meets-Carnival Hybrid
- 2.23 8. Bohemian Goddess with Fringe Details
- 2.24 9. Leather Jacket with Embellished Bodysuit
- 2.25 10. Plus Size Mardi Gras Goddess Gown
- 2.26 11. Two-Piece Crop Top and Skirt Set
- 2.27 12. Showgirl-Inspired Feathered Bodysuit
- 2.28 13. Casual Graphic Tee and Tutu Combo
- 2.29 14. Art Deco Flapper Dress Reimagined
- 2.30 15. Superhero-Inspired Cape and Bodysuit
- 3 Conclusion
- 4 FAQs
The Roots of Mardi Gras Fashion
Mardi Gras fashion didn’t start with costume shops—it evolved from Carnival’s rich European traditions. When French explorers brought the celebration to Louisiana in the early 1700s, masquerade balls became the playground for extravagant disguises.
By the mid-1800s, krewes (social clubs organizing parades) established the iconic purple, green, and gold palette.
Fast forward to today, and Mardi Gras costumes for women blend vintage opulence with modern festival flair. Think Victorian corsets meeting EDM rave culture. The phrase “laissez les bons temps rouler” (let the good times roll) isn’t just a motto—it’s a fashion manifesto.
Whether you’re channeling 1920s flapper vibes or 2020s Instagram glam, the goal remains: dress like every street is your runway.
15 Stunning Mardi Gras Outfits for Women
Quick Stat: According to event data, over 1.4 million people attend New Orleans Mardi Gras annually—and 73% say their outfit planning starts weeks in advance. Translation? You’re not alone in scrolling Pinterest at 2 a.m. for the perfect look. Here’s your cheat sheet.
1. The Classic Sequin Bodysuit with Tutu Skirt
This gold sequin Mardi Gras outfit is the festival uniform for a reason. Pair a long-sleeve sequined bodysuit (think disco ball texture) with a layered tulle tutu in purple and green.
Add fishnet tights, platform boots, and a masquerade mask with feather details. It’s comfortable enough for hours of dancing but extra enough for every Instagram story.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Swap the tutu for a high-waisted sequin skirt if you want more coverage. DIY hack: hot-glue loose sequins onto a plain bodysuit for custom sparkle. Bring a small crossbody bag—pockets don’t exist in this dimension.
2. Feathered Cape Over Metallic Jumpsuit
Channel your inner Vegas showgirl with a sleek metallic purple jumpsuit topped by a dramatic feathered cape. Look for jumpsuits with plunging necklines or cutouts, then layer a cape dripping in ostrich feathers (faux, please).
Finish with strappy heels and oversized hoop earrings. This Mardi Gras fashion women ensemble works for parade watching or upscale krewe balls.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Can’t find a cape? Attach feather boas to a sheer shawl with safety pins. Weather-proof it: pack the cape in a tote if rain’s forecasted, then debut it for photos.
Pro tip: avoid feathered capes in windy conditions unless you enjoy looking like Big Bird mid-flight.
3. Vintage-Inspired Corset and High-Waisted Shorts
For a nod to Mardi Gras’ historical roots, try a structured green velvet corset paired with high-waisted gold satin shorts.
Add lace-up gladiator sandals, layered pearl necklaces, and a wide-brimmed hat adorned with purple ribbons. This look balances old-world elegance with modern festival practicality—you can actually move.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Thrift vintage corsets for authenticity (check estate sales). If it’s humid, skip synthetic fabrics—velvet breathes better than polyester. Add a belt bag under the corset for essentials.
Fun fact: corsets were parade staples in the 1890s, so you’re historically accurate and trendy.
4. Sequined Blazer Dress with Thigh-High Boots
Who says Mardi Gras party outfits can’t be polished? A purple sequined blazer dress hits that sweet spot between chic and celebratory. Go mini-length, add emerald green thigh-high boots, and stack gold bangles up your arm. Swap the mask for dramatic winged eyeliner if you’re hitting indoor venues.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Layer bike shorts underneath for confidence during seat-saving maneuvers. Budget alternative: bedazzle a thrifted blazer with fabric glue and sequin trim. This works for after-parties too—just add a clutch and swap boots for heels.
5. DIY Mermaid-Inspired Ensemble
Here’s where Mardi Gras colors outfit creativity peaks. Start with a green sequined maxi skirt (the “tail”), add a gold bandeau top or bralette, and drape purple tulle from your waist like fins.
Accessorize with shell jewelry, temporary metallic tattoos, and a flower crown. This affordable Mardi Gras costume screams Pinterest gold.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Use hot glue to attach tulle layers to an elastic waistband. Raid craft stores for shell appliqués. Waterproof your makeup with setting spray—New Orleans humidity is no joke. Bonus: this outfit transitions seamlessly to beach festivals if you swap the skirt.
6. Masquerade Ball Gown with Victorian Sleeves
For formal krewe events, this Mardi Gras ball gown delivers drama. Picture a floor-length purple velvet gown with exaggerated puffed sleeves, gold embroidered bodice, and a structured corset waist.
Pair with an ornate Venetian mask, opera-length gloves, and a jeweled choker. Channel Bridgerton meets Bourbon Street.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Rent designer gowns from services like Rent the Runway to save hundreds. Alter thrift-store prom dresses with gold ribbon trim and vintage brooches. Carry a small reticule (old-timey purse) instead of a modern bag—it’s on-theme and practical.
7. Neon Rave-Meets-Carnival Hybrid
Merge festival fashion eras with a neon green mesh crop top, holographic purple shorts, and UV-reactive body paint in gold. Add platform sneakers (your feet will thank you), glow stick bracelets, and a light-up mask. This casual Mardi Gras outfit idea is perfect for all-night parade hopping.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Buy blacklight-reactive fabric paint at craft stores for custom designs. Layer a fanny pack crossbody-style for hands-free dancing. This look thrives at night parades—you’ll literally glow under streetlights. Just maybe skip it for the conservative family brunch.
8. Bohemian Goddess with Fringe Details
Soften the Mardi Gras aesthetic with a flowy gold crochet dress featuring long fringe, layered over a purple slip. Add a beaded headband, stacked coin necklaces, and suede ankle boots. Carry a fringed crossbody bag.
This works beautifully for daytime parades or French Quarter strolling—think free-spirited wanderer vibes. If you love handmade textures, explore our guide to crochet hats for women for complementary accessories.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Crochet your own dress if you’ve got the skills (start in January). Otherwise, hit Etsy for handmade options. Add purple temporary hair chalk for a non-committal color pop. The fringe moves with you—instant dynamism in photos.
9. Leather Jacket with Embellished Bodysuit
For the edgy minimalist, style a black leather moto jacket over a green sequined bodysuit, paired with ripped purple jeans and combat boots. Drape gold chain necklaces and add a studded belt. Swap the mask for dark lipstick and smoky eyes. This New Orleans Mardi Gras outfit balances tough and festive.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Iron-on rhinestone transfers let you customize the jacket’s back with “NOLA” or krewe logos. Layer thermal leggings under jeans if it’s chilly—February temps can drop. Remove the jacket for photos, then rewear for warmth. Function and fashion? Revolutionary.
10. Plus Size Mardi Gras Goddess Gown
Plus size Mardi Gras outfits deserve equal drama. Try a flowing empire-waist gown in ombré purple-to-gold chiffon, with flutter sleeves and a beaded belt. Style with strappy sandals, a statement necklace, and a feathered fascinator. This silhouette flatters curves while allowing full range of motion for catching beads.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Look for gowns with built-in shapewear panels or add your own with sewn-in Spanx. Dye white chiffon using ombré techniques for custom colors. Choose breathable fabrics—polyester traps heat. This look works year-round for other festivals or formal events.
11. Two-Piece Crop Top and Skirt Set
Coordinated sets are having a moment. Choose a purple sequined crop top with matching high-waisted pencil skirt (both stretchy for comfort). Layer gold body chains, add green platform heels, and carry a mini purse shaped like a mask. This Mardi Gras dress idea transitions from parade to party seamlessly.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Buy separates in different sizes for the perfect fit (hello, size-inclusive shopping). Safety-pin the crop top to the skirt’s waistband to prevent gaps when raising arms. Bring fashion tape for emergency wardrobe malfunctions. You’re basically a walking Pinterest board.
12. Showgirl-Inspired Feathered Bodysuit
Go full Las Vegas meets Louisiana with a long-sleeve bodysuit covered in purple, green, and gold feathers (strategically placed). Add fishnet stockings, stiletto heels, and a feathered headpiece that rivals parade floats.
This Mardi Gras masquerade outfit is for the bold—you’ll need confidence and maybe a handler to navigate doorways.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Hot-glue craft feathers onto a plain bodysuit in gradient patterns. Wear silicone nipple covers underneath sheer sections. Practice sitting down beforehand (seriously). Transport the headpiece separately to avoid crushing.
Where to buy Mardi Gras outfits like this? Check specialty costume shops or Amazon’s festival section.
13. Casual Graphic Tee and Tutu Combo
Not every Mardi Gras party outfit needs sequins. Pair a vintage-style graphic tee (think “Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler” slogan) with a simple green tutu, purple leggings, and white sneakers. Add Mardi Gras accessories for women like beaded necklaces and a gold belt bag. Perfect for family-friendly parades or daytime brunches.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Screen-print your own tees using fabric paint and stencils. Buy affordable tutus in bulk online (they’re reusable for themed runs and Halloween). Layer a denim jacket if temps dip. This is the “I woke up like this” of Mardi Gras fashion—effortless and comfortable.
14. Art Deco Flapper Dress Reimagined
Channel the Roaring Twenties with a gold fringed flapper dress, purple satin gloves, and a beaded headband with peacock feathers. Add T-strap heels and a long pearl necklace. This vintage Mardi Gras costume honors the festival’s jazz-age heritage while looking fresh off a Gatsby set.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Thrift stores are goldmines for authentic 1920s-inspired pieces. Sew extra fringe onto a plain shift dress for custom movement. Learn a basic Charleston step—your photos will come alive. Bonus historical flex: flappers actually wore these to early Mardi Gras balls.
15. Superhero-Inspired Cape and Bodysuit
Why not make Mardi Gras colors outfit choices empowering? Wear a metallic green bodysuit with a flowing purple cape (think superhero meets festival). Add gold knee-high boots, a mask with exaggerated eye shapes, and arm cuffs. You’re basically a krewe avenger—catching beads and saving the vibe.
Styling Tips & DIY Ideas:
Upcycle old Halloween capes by dyeing them purple. Attach Velcro to the cape’s neckline for easy removal. Paint cardboard arm cuffs with metallic spray paint for budget bling. This look is Instagram catnip—own it. For more creative festival styling, check out our complete guide to Mardi Gras outfits for additional inspiration.
Conclusion
From sequined bodysuits to vintage ball gowns, these Mardi Gras outfits for women prove there’s no single way to celebrate. Mix eras, defy expectations, and let purple, green, and gold be your guiding stars.
Pin your favorites, raid your closet (or Etsy), and remember: the best accessory is the energy you bring. Now go catch some beads and make every sidewalk your runway. Laissez les bons temps rouler! 🎭
FAQs
What are the traditional Mardi Gras colors and what do they mean?
Purple represents justice, green symbolizes faith, and gold stands for power—a trio established by the Rex krewe in 1872.
Where can I buy affordable Mardi Gras outfits online?
Amazon, Etsy, and Shein offer budget-friendly Mardi Gras costumes for women, while thrift stores provide unique vintage finds for DIY projects.
What should I wear to a Mardi Gras parade vs. a ball?
Parades call for comfortable, weather-ready outfits like tutus and bodysuits; balls demand formal attire such as gowns and masquerade masks.
Can I wear Mardi Gras outfits if I’m plus size?
Absolutely—plus size Mardi Gras outfits include empire-waist gowns, stretchy sequined sets, and custom-tailored pieces that celebrate curves.
How do I style Mardi Gras accessories for women?
Layer feather boas, beaded necklaces, and masks with your outfit; add body chains or gloves for extra flair without overcrowding the look.
