Fashion Finds Fantasy : New Orleans Carnival Balls

By Martha Lapeyre

Every girl dreams of going to a ball like cinderella, and in New Orleans it is a real possibility. Kings, Queens, Ladies in waiting's, Paige's, all seem to grace the pages of newspapers from January 6th to Mardi Gras day. Fashion plays a big role in this season from cocktail party attire to haute couture. The Mardi Gras Queens dresses can take up to a year to make. Imported french lace, hand beading and swarovski crystals can  be found in a multitude of dresses on the ball floor. There are strict guidelines when going to a ball. Long white Gloves for the women who sit in the front row. Floor length dresses are a must. The queen and her court wear white silver or gold. Men either wear wear full dress tails or they are masked in costume. Many popular designers are Jill Stuart, Halston and local favorite couturier Susan Perron. Accessorizing your evening gowns with sparkling purses and jewelry will always amp up the final look. It is also always a good idea to put your hair in an up-do, because it will be a long night and you want to keep it out of the way.

This is the 2015 Rex queen wearing a Susan Perron Dress, completely hand beaded.http://www.mardigras.com/news/2016/01/rex_queens_on_parade.html#22

More of the Rex Court, with examples of Gowns and gloves that the women wear. https://www.rexorganization.com/Ball