Masquerade balls are not just for Mardi Gras any more. Any themed party can be turned into an exciting event with the addition of masquerade party masks. The use of these masks is thought to have begun in Renaissance Italy, especially in Venice, where the nobility could use them to flirt and dance with anyone, not just those “appropriate” persons. These masquerade balls spread throughout Europe and even to the Americas where some thought them to be a sinful enterprise, as you could not tell the upper class from the “commoners”. Eventually, their popularity waned with the burgeoning middle class.

There are several different types of masquerade party masks, the half mask, the full mask, the stick mask, and the head mask. The half mask, which is probably the most popular type today, covers the top half of the face only. It is convenient for speaking, eating, and drinking and, of course, stealing a kiss. The full mask covers the full face and provides more mystery for the wearer, though can be a hindrance at a party where eating and drinking is a main focus.

The stick mast is a full or half mask but is mounted on a stick that the wearer has to hold over the face. This can be used as a dramatic covering and easy to frequently remove and surprise others with your identity if so desired, however, becomes inconvenient if you need to use more than one hand for dancing or other activities. The head mask covers the entire head and was often embellished with feathers, fur, or extravagant beading for extra effect.

Masquerade party masks run from very simple eye and nose covering without decoration to elaborate large masks that cover the entire head sometimes including fur, fabric, or feathers. You can spend whatever you like on a mask, from a few pennies to several hundred dollars for a specially commissioned piece dependent on your circumstances and event.

A large half or full mask makes a bold statement and later can make an elegant piece of art for the wall. Making your own mask is gaining in popularity as well and supplies such as simple, single color masks, sequins, beads and feathers are readily available at party and craft stores.

In general, white masks are traditionally most appropriate for female party goers and black for males though the type of mask you wear should be dependent on the type of party you are attending. A casual college masquerade party should involve only wearing a simple mask in the themed colors that you can buy at the local craft store where as a formal costume ball for a charity event may require a much more detailed, elegant creation. There are still businesses, especially in the New Orleans area, that create one of a kind masks by commission so you are the most exotic and interesting person at your special event.

While many people may never attend a formal masquerade ball, masquerade party masks have gained popularity in recent years as cost effective and creative Halloween costumes. A creative masquerade party mask turns your regular clothes into an interesting costume.

Masquerade party masks, while owing their beginnings to the Italian nobility, have developed into an interesting costume idea as well as an art form that every commoner can enjoy.