6 foolproof Mardi Gras outfit ideas that won't look like a costume (2024)

6 foolproof Mardi Gras outfit ideas that won't look like a costume (1)

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Punxsutawney Phil might have said there are six more weeks of winter, but March 1 is Mardi Gras, aka Fat Tuesday, and fortunately for us, you don't need to travel to New Orleans to partake in the celebrations. Butyou do need an appropriate outfit, and Reviewed has plenty of Mardi Gras outfit ideas for you.

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It all began in 1872with the first Rex paradewhere the King selected purple, gold and green to be Mardi Gras' signature colors. Fast-forward to 1982, when the Mardi Gras King provided each shade with meaning: purple for justice, green means faithand gold represents power; since then, it's been a tradition to weartheseshades during the celebrations.

To kick off the festivities—and make sure your outfit doesn't resemble a Halloween costume— we've gone ahead and found six casual Mardi Gras outfit ideas suitable for every extravaganza.

1. Nab this Lovers and Friends emerald top that'll leave everyone green with envy

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The easiest way to start an outfit is by building a foundation off of one piece, and the Fraya top by Lovers and Friends is an excellent start. This top is available in emerald green and women's sizes XXS to XL and features an off-the-shoulder design. The taffeta sleeves add drama and volume, while the boned bodice adds structure and balance.

One reviewer says,"it's one of the best tops they've ever worn," with another shopper adding that they were "thankful for the easy-to-wear zippered back."Keep all eyes on this "gorgeous top" and pair it with flared denim pants like this version.

Available in women's sizes 23 to 34, Frame's Le High Flare Jean is one of the brand's bestsellers and recognized for its decidedly fresh spin on a 70's silhouette. The ultra-soft, super-stretch denim is form-fitting through the hips and thighs and kicks out at the knees.

To ensure that this look can transition from day to night, you'll need a comfortable shoe, and this Marc Fisher Glory boot fits the bill. Aside from the fact you can wear it year-round, this classic pointed silhouette exudes sophistic and is available in women's sizes 5.5 to 11, as well as three different colors.Reviewers loved how "wearable and comfortable" this style was, but a handful of shoppers do recommend sizing upto find your best fit.

While any gold hoop would tie this look together, we recommend trying something a bit more festive, like this French hook pair of earrings. The multi-colored earrings were praised by shoppers, with one deeming them "the perfect Mardi Gras earrings."

2. Invest in Reformation's size-inclusive Meadow Dress Es

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Streamline your look by relying on this foolproof Reformation's Meadow Dress Es. Available in women's extended sizes 1X to 3X, this comfortable piece checks all the boxes. The fully smocked bodice provides maximum comfort and shape in the chest areaand the slightly puffed sleeves addjust the right amount of volume and shape. It's paired to perfection with a relaxed skirt and front slit to give this dress the right amount of movement.

Step into these MICHAEL Michael Kors boots for a "stylish and comfortable" option. Available in women's sizes 5 to 10, all three colors feature a crocodile-embossed leather with a leg-lengthening pointed-toe silhouette and a three-inch block heel.A fan-favorite of many shoppers, this style comes highly recommend, with one reviewer championing everyone to "purchase the green boots" and another chiming in over "how beautiful these boots are." With that said, a handful of shoppers do recommend sizing a half-size up, as the boot fits a "bit snug" in the calf area, and if not, it could be uncomfortable.

As a finishing touch, reach for this four-pack of Mardi Gras hair clips. Featuring two glittered crown masks and two Fleur De Lis masks, wear them together or mix-and-match.

3. Stay comfortable with thisNobis jacket and adidas Stan Smith sneakers

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In some cases, you might not know where exactly you are celebrating Mardi Gras, so it's impossible to know what to wear. We've all been there, and that's why investing in a piece like this Nobis Anorak Jacket is a foolproof way to go. Nobis, known for their gender-neutral styles, offers this jacket in sizes XS to 3XL in two different two-toned shades.

It features a water-repellent nylon shell and breathable Primaloft insulation, plus fast-drying warmth, so it will withstand whatever Mother Nature throws your way, which is perfect for unpredictable March weather.

Pair your jacket with these Satina leggings. With over 75,000 fans on Amazon, this high-waisted bottom is available in two different sizes: one size and one size plus. Additionally, it's also ready-to-wear in over 55 variations in a handful of colors and lengths, including full-length, short-lengthand capri. Reviewers gushed over how "the material doesn't pill," and they were an "affordable LuLaRose alternative."

Elevate your cozy look by adding statement accessories. This purple, gold and green padded headband is a bestseller on Etsy, with reviewers deeming it "a compliment magnet."

Complete your look by stepping into an iconic pair of Stan Smith sneakers. The adidas bestseller is available in women's sizes 5 to 11, and this particular pair elevates the classic white base with hints of gold. With a perfect five-star rating from reviewers, many shoppers rave how "cute, comfortable and classic" they are, with the one caveat being to go one half-size down, as this sneaker can runbig.

4. Elevate DL1961's denim with these Marc Fisherslingback heels

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A versatile sweater is essential when you want to stay warm and avoid carrying a coat, andthis naadam version is ideal.Available in three colors, and women's sizes XXXS to XL, our favorite is purple. The fabric isblended fromwool and cashmerethat will keep you warm enough to wear on its own.With a perfect five-star rating, one shopper loved how "this cozy sweater fit her curvier frame," whereas another one said she was "surprised how the boxier frame fit so well."

Tuck this sweaterinto this pair of vintage straight-fit jeansby DL1961. Obtainable in women's sizes 23 to 32, this specific pair is known as one of the brand's bestsellers. It features a high-waisted silhouette complemented with comfort-stretch denim woven with certified cotton.

Take your outfit to the next level with the help of these fan-favorite14k hoops from Amazon. With over 33,000 reviewers in support, it's hard to disagree that "they're the best investment ever." Finally, top your look off by stepping into these multi-colored mule heels.

Available in women's sizes 5 to 9.5, the slingback style remains comfortable with day-to-night wear, and the 3.5-inch heel adds just enough height to frames. According to one reviewer, "they're the comfiest heels to walk in," and another reviewer agrees, adding "I feel in love the second they arrived."

5. Mix-and-match colors withthis Etsy striped shirt and these UGG Fluff Yeah slippers

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Mardi Gras is all about mixing and matching colors, and what better way to play with its signature colors than my starting with this Etsy shirt. Available in women's sizes S to 2XL, the long-sleeve shirt features three thick stripes of green, purple and golden yellow. One reviewer says it's the "perfect Mardi Gras shirt for staying home," while shoppers claims, "it's super cute, and so well made."

While shoppers recommend pairing this shirt with a pair of leggings, we encourage having a bit more fun and reaching for these Candace Cameron Bure Malibu joggers. Available in women's sizes XXXS to 5X, all five available colors feature the same drawstring waist, side stripe and comfortable fit. Reviewers love "the super-soft [cotton] material," with one even mentioning how "great the side pockets" were.

Brighten up your look by sliding into the UGG Fluff Yeah shearling slingbacksandals. Ready-to-wear in women's shoe sizes 5 to 11, the ultra-comfortable plush sandal is a fan-favorite, with over 7,400reviewers in favor. One reviewer says, "it's footwear comfort to the max," with another shopper mentioning, "get one for you and your entire family!"

Pull the look together with this MHGG headband that reviewers claim "is the very cute piece every outfit needs." Well said!

6. Sparkle and shine in Saylor NYC's minidress

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Heading out to an all-night, full-on, big-bash-Mardi Gras party? Swap out your little black dress for Saylor NYC's Kourtney dress. Available in women's sizes XS to L, the straight neckline and form-fitting bodycon silhouette give your curves some well-deserved attention while the bold rainbow chevron pattern demands it.

Avoid mishaps or chilly legs by adding a no-nonsense tight like these. Ready-to-wear in sizes S to XXL, nearly 15,000 reviewers say "they couldn't believe how long they went before buying these tights."

Layer up in this Genhoo blazer. Available in women's sizes XS to 3XL, nearly 3,000 reviewers love this piece featured 17 different colors. One reviewer said she loves how it offered a "classy and elegant look," while another says, "the versatile piece fit her frame perfectly."

Add a layer of security by strapping yourself into Steve Madden's Charlize platforms. Available in women's shoe sizes 5 to 11, this chunky double platform is ready-to-wear in two different colors. Both colors present a five-inch block heel, chunky double-platform and an adjustable side strap.

Top off your look with thisMAKEUP BY MARIO master metallic eyeshadow palette. Designed by Kim Kardashian's go-to makeup artist, this palette of 12 creamy, luxurious shades melts onto lids, andnearly 800 reviewers, "swear by it."

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6 foolproof Mardi Gras outfit ideas that won't look like a costume (2024)

FAQs

What's a good Mardi Gras outfit? ›

Costumes are to the Carnival season as peanut butter is to jelly — indispensable. We encourage you to consider wearing one, or at least accessorize with a sparkly headdress and some feathers. At the very least, wear something in the Carnival colors — purple, green and gold.

Do you need a costume for Mardi Gras? ›

While some people decide to costume all the time, you'll always be fine in jeans, a T-shirt, and close-toed shoes. Mardi Gras colors (purple, green, and gold) are encouraged.

How do locals dress for Mardi Gras? ›

"As a rule, the more brightly colored and crazy, the better. It's anything goes, as long as it's over the top." The variety with Mardi Gras costumes is seemingly endless: satin, sequins, embossing, feathers, rhinestones, masks, headdresses, wigs, beading, makeup, and more.

How to dress for a New Orleans themed party? ›

What to Wear to a Mardi Gras Party
  1. Embrace Colorful Patterns. Mardi Gras is synonymous with bold colors: purple symbolizing justice, green representing faith, and gold for power. ...
  2. Adorn Costumes and Masks. ...
  3. Accessorize with Beads and Feathers. ...
  4. Comfortable Footwear. ...
  5. Layered Clothing. ...
  6. Add a Touch of Glitter.

What color do you wear on Fat Tuesday? ›

Rex introduced the trio in 1872 and later assigned each a meaning: gold for power, green for faith and purple for justice. Why they were originally chosen is up for debate. Some claim these were the royal colors of Russian Grand Duke Alexis Romanoff and honored his visit to New Orleans at Mardi Gras in 1872.

How to dress for Fat Tuesday? ›

On Fat Tuesday, many people, many people are out in full blown costumes, all day. On the other days, some are in costume and masks, but most are in what I call Mardi Gras Festive wear. This could be dressing in Mardi Gras colors, boas, sparkly things, simple masks, wigs, interesting make up, fun headwear, etc.

What does krewe stand for? ›

A krewe is, simply, a club or organization that exists to celebrate Carnival. But while a krewe has royalty, the positions of king and queen are merely ceremonial. The identities of the queen and her maids are usually public, while the identities of kings are often secret—Rex being a notable exception.

What is New Orleans co*cktail attire? ›

Semi-formal: The only dress code that changes depending on time of day. Before 6 p.m. this means a suit for him and an appropriate shorter dress or dressy suit for women. After 6 p.m. calls for a dark suit for him and a co*cktail dress for her. co*cktail: Dark suit for him and short, elegant dress for her.

What is the clothing style in New Orleans? ›

The overall “vibe” of New Orleans fashion is fairly casual, so don't feel the need to dress up unless you're going to an upscale restaurant. The nightlife in the Big Easy is focused around Bourbon Street and has a party atmosphere, with people drinking and dancing out in the street.

What do you wear to a nightlife in New Orleans? ›

The Casual Chic Vibe

Whether it's a comfy pair of jeans and a t-shirt or a sundress that catches the breeze, the key is to feel at ease while immersing yourself in the cultural tapestry or New Orleans Pub Crawl.

What should I wear to New Orleans Jazz Fest? ›

Jazz Fest is a unique festival dedicated to and reflective of the culture of the city of New Orleans. Wear something expressive, unique and fun! Do, however, keep in mind that Jazz Fest happens rain or shine! Check the forecast daily and remember that a light rain jacket or boots are never a bad idea.

Is there a dress code for Big Night New Orleans? ›

There is no formal dress code enforced, however, we want people looking their best. Creative, upscale attire is definitely encouraged! Gentlemen: range from club attire to black tie. Ladies: range from stylish co*cktail attire to formal gowns.

What do you wear to New Orleans Jazz Club? ›

New Orleans' jazz clubs have a particular character, despite their dark, somber atmosphere. Jeans may be worn with a leather jacket or a smart shirt, and there are so many hipster styles out there.

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