Our Editor Swears By These 5 Mardi Gras Essentials
Digital Content Manager | Pop Culture Nerd | Cosplay & Musical Theatre Enthusiast
Vanessa is a Sydney-based content specialist who is passionate about all things pop culture. When she isn't creating content or cosplaying, you can find her rehearsing for the next musical she's in.
Mardi Gras has to be one of my favourite times of the year. I love the glitter, vibrant outfits, and the celebration of the LBGTIQ+ community. My annual Mardi Gras outfits definitely make up my collection of signature looks over the years. Through this vibrant season of the year, I let myself sparkle and shine brighter than Edward under a Tuscan sun.
Here are my top 5 essential items for the ultimate Mardi Gras outfit:
1. The statement piece.
Image source: MardiGras.org.au
Whether it’s an oversized and bedazzled headpiece and/or a pair of large extravagant wings, you must have a statement piece. The bigger, the bolder… the better. Nothing says “all eyes on me” like a statement piece does. Here’s one of my absolute favourites from the Sydney parade incorporating both:
2. Glitter, glitter and more glitter.
Image source: Unsplash
Stock up because this essential item is always a winner for Mardi Gras (and one I keep in my makeup bag at all times of the year). Use glittery eyeshadow, a glitter spray or body glitter. Add some body jewels as well to give your look an extra “wow” factor or even add some sequins and gems to your outfit. My personal favourite is the Moon Creations body glitter range from CostumeBox. It’s biodegradable, comes in all the colours of the rainbow and has fine and chunky glitter options too!
Tip: If you don’t find glitter around the house long after the event, you aren’t using enough!
3. Comfortable shoes.
Image source: ShoeMe.com.au
Yes, you can wear heels and still be comfy. High heels with a platform sole can look deceivingly uncomfortable but are actually quite the opposite. Strap on the heels and start strutting. Alternatively, you can opt for a standard platform shoe to give you the outrageous height but with maximum flat-footed comfort.
Some brands I like to shop: Demonia, Pleaser and Bordello (you can find epic shoes on the ShoeMe website).
4. A Bag.
Image source: Alibaba
Generally, the day is quite long so it’s important to bring a bag with all your personal items. It should be a small bag that easily blends in with your Mardi Gras outfit. Think a bum bag, small sequined backpack or even a cross-body bag. Don’t forget to pack some snacks and spare glitter, as well as any other essential personal items you’ll need for the day.
5. Face Mask.
Image source: Local Threads
Like your backpack, match your face mask to your costume. After all, a mask has become an essential item, so it’s good to have one with you to use when you need it on the day. Make it glittery, find a rainbow mask, or come up with another fun way to match your mask to your Mardi Gras costume.
Follow my tips for an Insta-worthy Mardi Gras outfit and get ready to strut your stuff at the parade! Don’t forget to share your pics with us so we can see all of your amazing Mardi Gras ‘fits!
