Mardi Gras is all about color: purple, green, and gold, plus as much shine as you can handle. Whether you're catching beads at a parade or heading to a ball, here's how to build a head-turning Mardi Gras outfit with affordable pieces.
The Mardi Gras color rule
Purple stands for justice, green for faith, and gold for power. You don't need all three in one outfit. Pick one main color and use the others in accessories, makeup, or beads.
Parade day: comfortable, colorful, and layered
Parades mean hours outside and lots of walking. A purple knit mini with a denim jacket and sneakers or boots is comfortable and on-theme. Pile on beads and add gold jewelry.
Shop the Purple Off-Shoulder Tie-Dye Mini Dress
Shop the 90s Boyfriend Denim Jacket
Want green instead? A green one-shoulder mini works the same way.
Shop the Brighten Your Day Green Mini Dress
Night parties: metallics and shine
After dark, go metallic. A metallic mini catches the light and fits the gold part of the color story.
Shop the Night Of Fun Metallic Mini Dress
For a dinner party, a purple strapless midi is festive but elevated.
Shop the Sienna Purple Strapless Midi Dress
Mardi Gras balls and galas: go full glam
Krewe balls and formal events call for a gown. A purple satin corset maxi with crystal details is about as Mardi Gras as it gets. Add a mask and gold heels.
Shop the Crystal Corset Purple Satin Maxi Dress
Mardi Gras outfits for men
A purple button-down with dark jeans is an easy parade look; add a blazer and mask for a party or ball.
Shop the North Men's Purple Button-Down Shirt
Shop the Men's Signed & Sealed Taper Jeans
Gold accessories
Shop the Animal Motif Gold & Silver Jewelry
Mardi Gras outfit ideas at a glance
| Event | Outfit | Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Parade | Purple or green mini, denim jacket, beads | Sneakers or flat boots |
| Night party | Metallic mini | Heeled boots |
| Dinner | Purple midi, gold jewelry | Strappy heels |
| Ball or gala | Satin maxi, mask | Gold heels |
Tips for every body and budget
- Plus-size: corset and wrap shapes define the waist; jewel-tone purple is flattering on everyone.
- On a budget: build around one colored piece you already own and add beads, a mask, and gold makeup.
- Wear shoes you can stand in for hours; parades are long.
- Bring a crossbody bag to keep your hands free for catching throws.
Shop more party looks in Cocktail Dresses and Women's Evening Dresses.
