Masquerade ball masks have a very interesting history. Masquerade balls started in the 1500’s among royalty to celebrate special events such as the birth of a son, a wedding, or the like. At first, they did not wear costumes, only the masquerade ball masks, but after some time costumes also became a part of the masquerade ball, first in Italy and then throughout other parts of Europe. Nowadays, of course, masquerade balls can be enjoyed by everyone who wishes and the masquerade ball masks and costumes are not all that hard to buy, or even all that expensive.

Besides the actual older style of ball masks that are geared for 1500’s or 1600’s themed parties, there are also Mardi Gras ball masks, and the two should not be confused. While both are ball masks, the styles are quite different. If you are looking for something that is for a formal ball as opposed to Mardi Gras ball, then a good idea is to get a set that has not only the masquerade ball mask but also the right costume as well. You can find these at either costume shops or online.

It is definitely easier to find these online with a simple click of the mouse and there are some good costume retailers online who will not only sell the set at a good price but sometimes ship it for free as well. However, the big downside is that you will not be able to try on the mask or the costume until you get it. You may find it a better bet to check out a few costume shops to find the right masquerade ball mask costume set.

Finding a Mardi Gras masquerade ball mask is a lot simpler if you are only looking for the mask and not a whole costume to go with it. There are some that will stand out and be very noticeable, such as the kind that have a whole headdress of feathers with it. If you were looking to make a powerful impression then something like that would be the way to go. On the other hand, you could simply choose a nice looking jeweled mask (not with real jewels) that will sparkle in the night and look good.

If you are getting a masquerade mask that is meant for a formal ball then the kind that you hold with a stick is more authentic, as opposed to the ones that you simply tie on with a string at the back. If you are getting a masquerade ball mask that is for Mardi Gras or simply for a parade or mask party, you can get either kind - the hand held one or the tie on one. The tie on one is a lot more convenient, however, as it leaves your hands free to eat, drink and dance. Both kinds are cheap for a nice looking mask, you can find them for sale in the range of $15- $20, either at a costume shop or at an online retailer.