One of the biggest and most beloved events of the year, Mardi Gras bursts with colour and creativity. A night of dancing, music, magic, entertainment, cheer, colour, and non-stop celebration, it’s as fun and fantastical as it is important.

It’s an opportunity to throw convention out the window and unveil your true self to the world. Going all out it isn’t just accepted, it’s actively encouraged! It’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone, experiment, and have some fun.

Whether you’re at the parade, dancing in a club, or staying in with friends, wear what makes you happy but if you need a little extra inspiration, our Mardi Gras fashion guide is here to help.

Embrace the rainbow

There’s a good reason the streets are filled with bright, colourful people during Mardi Gras - the rainbow is a symbol of the vibrant diversity of the LGBTI+ community. Dressing in the colours of the rainbow isn’t just stylish, it’s an important and effective way to show your support. There’s no set way to dress, and you can choose between focusing on one colour or embracing them all! For simplicity, we recommend a rainbow-coloured dress, jumpsuit, or tie dye shirt and shorts combo. Get creative and incorporate colour into other pieces of clothing, such as your shoes, bag, or jewellery (just to name a few!) Check out the range at Sportsgirl and Colette by Colette Hayman for some bright, colourful pieces we love.

Image sourced: Pinterest @bellabarnett

Shine and sparkle

Nothing captures the glitz and glamour of Mardi Gras like a bright, sparkly outfit. If you want to shine bright like a disco ball and stand out from the crowd, we recommend choosing sequins and pieces with metallic elements that catch the light with every moment. If you’re feeling particularly fancy, you can even wear a sequin suit or formal dress, but remember to dress according to your plans as you might be on the move all night. Where possible, try incorporating the colours of the rainbow and don’t forget to accessorise and add glitter and rhinestones. For all things shiny and sparkly, check out the range at Universal Store and Forever New.

Image sourced: Pinterest @etsy

Image sourced: Pinterest @bellabarnett

Subtly slay

For those who are a little more understated, you can still slay without stepping too far outside your comfort zone. Start with something you’re comfortable in and add flair with accessories. We love the look of a plain black top paired with a sequinned skirt or shorts, it’s not quite as colourful as some outfits but it’s incredibly striking. Get creative with accessories such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, gloves, socks, shoes, belt bags, and sunglasses to add glamour. For the perfect accessories, check out the range at Sunglass Hut, Novo Shoes, Rebel, and Ally Fashion.

Products featured (L-R): Colour Excess Gel Pencil Eye Liner Perpetual Shock $47 RRP (MAC Cosmetics available at Mecca), Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Clear Logo $45 RRP (Lululemon)

Fancy dress

From firefighters to cowboys and princesses to devils, you can be whatever you want at Mardi Gras. For some, it’s one of the most extravagant fancy dress events of the year and there’s no reason to hold back. Try convincing some friends or your partner to dress up with you as it’s great to have a partner in crime and it makes them easy to spot in a crowd! Hot tip: the best costumes are always well accessorised so don’t forget to add rings, props, hats, and necklaces. For the best fancy dress ranges, visit Kmart and Big W.

Image sourced: Pinterest @travelerbroads

Image Sourced: Pinterest @opposuits