A masquerade mask is an item worn over the face to either cover it partially or fully during ceremonies, parties or themed events. These masks have beginnings that go back as early as the 15th Century when masquerade balls were held to celebrate weddings, formal gatherings, birthdays and other parties.
You can either decide to make your own mask or buy one but you should remember to first of all take into consideration:
- The overall theme of the party which you plan to attend while wearing the mask
- The quality of the material the mask is made out of. If you want it to last longer, then you may go for metal or plastic masks over papier-mâché ones.
- You need to pick the mask that matches best with your costume according to whatever decorations it has. For example, feathers, sequins, beads or any other additions.
The different types of masquerade masks are also another factor you should consider when picking out a design for yourself. There are generally four types which fall under these categories:
- Half-Face Masks - These mostly cover the area starting from the forehead or eyes down to the nostrils and leave the mouth area exposed which allows the wearer to talk easily. They are fastened with a pair of strings which go around the head and are tied at the back.
- Full-Face Masks – These cover the entire face and contain two holes for the eyes and in some cases, a third for the mouth. They are also fastened using a pair of strings that go behind the head and allow the wearer a more mysterious look.
- Head Masks – These are worn in the same style as helmets and are slipped over the head to completely cover even the hair. They offer less freedom when it comes to eating, drinking or speaking and may require the wearer to remove them before performing these tasks. These usually make great masquerade masks for men.
- Stick Masks – These types of masquerade masks are usually unsecured to the wearer’s face and are held up to the face by a hand with a stick attached to the side of the mask. They don’t really disguise the identity of the wearer as they come off and go back on severally during the party when the wearer uses his or her hands to handle food or acknowledge greetings from other partygoers.
Some different types of masks which are available for purchase are as follows:
1. Feather Mask Mardi Gras
This is a very beautiful and uniquely shaped pink and black carnival mask that can be used during Mardi gras. It is made in the half-mask design that covers the eyes only and is fastened at the back of the head. This mask would be a great prom masquerade mask.
The feathers form a flower shape whose centre is decorated with sequin detail to give it a unique finish.
The mask goes for only $6.97 for a size that fits almost any wearer at Factory Card and Party Outlet.
Click here to buy this mask at Amazon.
2. White Fabric Italian Mask Costume Dress Up Bridal
This simple but very elegant white mask can be used at weddings which have a masquerade mask theme. It may be worn by the bride to match with her masquerade dress or it can be worn by those in her bridal party. That does not limit it as it can also be used at any other types of masquerade balls when coupled with an appropriate outfit.
It covers the eyes and can be fastened behind the head with adjustable strings for securing it. It features white fabric and is decorated sparingly with beads and flowers.
This delicate piece comes priced at $15.98 from Masks Int’l
Click here to buy this mask at Amazon.
3. Black Venetian Feather Face Mask
This black face mask gives off a mysterious feel with its black colour and the fact that it covers most of the face. It features black ribbon ties for securing around the head, glittery decoration and peacock feather on one side.
It also comes in a size that fits almost any wearer and can be worn to either a Venetian Masquerade party or any other type of party.
Although it is made from papier-mâché, this mask has been crafted very carefully and professionally to give off a polished and high quality final loo.
It comes priced at $14.95 from Century Novelty
Click here to buy this mask at Amazon.
4. Metallic Half-Masks
These are a great bargain as they come in a multi-coloured pack of 2 dozen for $5 from Fun Express.
They can be put to a variety of uses such as at birthdays, Halloween or Mardi gras parties where the host can hand them out to guests as they arrive. Since they are such a bargain, you can also buy them for your children or friends as a gift.
You get to pick from a wide range of colours as per your preference and the other plus is that they ar rather durable as they are metallic. That means you are free to use them over and over again at subsequent parties.
hClick here to buy this mask at Amazon.
5. Fascination Mask
This elegant, bright and sophisticated mask can be used at Venetian parties or during Mardi gras. It is made from papier-mâché and has a stick for the wearer to use while holding it up over the face. The colour blend used gives off a celebratory mood and it can be used to brighten up any outfit.
It comes from Bauer and is sold by Toynk Toys for $11.99
Click here to buy this mask at Amazon.
This article was written by Susan.
