To an outsider, a Mardi Gras ball may seem a stuffy, conservative affair, particularly when it comes to fashion. Sure, many of the celebrations date back to the 19th century, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t filled with thoroughly modern women wearing decidedly contemporary styles. It’s most noticeable in the details; the unexpected placement of a bow or subtle sparkle of a shoe peeking out from beneath a floor length gown. If you pay close enough attention, you will see both vintage and modern jewelry worn in new, creative ways and tiny, playful handbags in all shapes and colors. So, while these festivities certainly pay homage to a bygone era, the style continues to march forward in small but significant ways.
Here are a few of our favorite locally sourced ball gowns and jewelry to take them to the next level!
Clockwise from Left:
Silver Gown, So Susu,
Sequin Gown, Chatta Box,
Ippolita Rock Candy Earrings, Lee Michaels
One Shoulder Gown, Chatta Box,
Ippolita Necklace, Lee Michaels,
Mikimoto Petal Ring, Aucoin Hart
Cara Gown, Ballin’s
One Shoulder Gown, Chatta Box
Doves Necklace, Aucoin Hart
Tulle and Ombre Gown, So Susu
Emerald and Diamond Studs, Aucoin Hart
Carson Dress, Pilot/Powell
Lace Peplum Gown, Saks Fifth Avenue
Flocked Lace Gown, So SuSu
Mikimoto Pearl Necklace, Aucoin Hart
South Sea Pearl and Diamond Earrings, Wellington & Co.
Sale & Event Picks:
Jan. 24-27: Winter Closet Clearance Sale, Ballin’s
Jan. 26: Megan Hebert Headdress Pop Up at Hola Guava
Ongoing: Deeper Discounts Sale, Pilot/Powell
Jan. 30 – Feb. 1- Find your Carnival Flair Pop Up at Em’s Boutique
