If you are going to attend a masquerade party, you will certainly want to look the best that you can.  This means selecting a mask and costume that suit the persona that you will represent.  If you plan to just act as yourself, choose a mask that represents who you are.  Otherwise, choose one that has colors and personality to reflect your character.  Choosing the perfect masquerade mask is essential to having a great time at a party.

Masquerade ball masks come in a variety of styles.  Most of them cover on the area around the eyes, so this is the stereotype that everyone thinks of.  Others, such as Venetian style, cover the entire face and are made of much heavier materials like paper mache.  Masks like those that are worn in The Phantom of the Opera cover about half of the face, but are diagonal in design.  Choose a mask that you will be comfortable in but hides your identity fairly well.

Another key choice in selecting the perfect mask is color.  Masquerade masks come in almost every conceivable color and pattern.  These range from a silver, glittery finish to a checkered red and black design.  Color could be argued to be more important than style, although it is the culmination of the two features that create the mask’s true value.

When considering you mask purchase, make sure to think about what accessories you will wear with the mask.  If you buy a mask of extravagant color, you may not already have something in your wardrobe that will match.  If you are planning to buy your accessories anyway, you can be a bit less selective with color, but you’ll still have to find items that are the same shade as your mask which can be difficult if time is short.

If you can’t seem to find the perfect mask, your other option is to make your own.  Plain masquerade masks are readily available in fabric stores, costume shops, and online.  It’s as easy as adding the color and various decorations you want included.  You could also purchase a mask that is close to what you’re looking for and alter it to your taste.  This could be as easy as adding sequins or feathers to a mask in the store.