The spooky season is just around the corner! As a festivity and Halloween enthusiast in one – what can you do to make this time of the year more fun? Sure, the ol’ Ritz and dazzle of sparkles might work. But think about it for a minute. Will you be satisfied with just the usual fangs, skulls, and pumpkins?
No? Then you’re definitely on the right page! Here, we’ll let you in on the best masquerade masks and hoods available at the tip of your fingers! Host or attend every soiree and be the center of attention with these magical items! Excited yet? Read on!
History of Halloween Masks and Hoods
Fancy traveling back in time? To fully understand what these items offer, here’s a quick breakdown of masks and hoods’ otherworldly influence throughout history
Masks and Hoods Through the Ages
Ancient Beginnings: Let’s rewind time to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Can you believe that this time, people believe spirits walk the Earth alongside them? Well, we can. Many still have this belief, after all! To ward off these wandering souls, the Celts donned animal heads and skins to create frightening disguises. Just a bit of blending in, you know?
Hooded and Gruesome: In medieval Europe, hoods often accompanied cloaks and robes. Executioners concealed their identities with hooded attire. In contrast, monks wore them as a symbol of devotion and humility. The effect is the same, though mystique and intrigue!
Medieval Masquerades: As time marched on, Halloween continued to change here and there. In medieval Europe, specifically, masks became a thing – a fascinating one, too, that folk would dress up in elaborate, often grotesque costumes to go along with it. Then, they’ll parade through towns. Can’t let the effort of dressing up go to waste even then, huh?
Venetian Flair: Fast forward to the 13th century, and you’ll find the Venetians taking mask-wearing to a whole new level. Being the most prosperous city then, Venice grabbed the spotlight for its stunning artistry and ornate designs. Their masks follow suit. They were less about warding off evil spirits and more about throwing extravagant, high-society parties during Carnival season.
Masquerade Masks and Hoods for Halloween
Take your pick of the best masquerade masks and hoods below:
Halloween Venetian Mask
Do you want to feel the luxurious richness of Venice? Be a time traveler and welcome the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship with the Venetian mask. Each mask is a work of art – deserving of a place right beside the Mona Lisa, no less!
Why not when they’re hand-painted to perfection? Add on the vibrant, rich colors that capture the elegance and charisma of the old Allhallows. Want to stand out? Pick out an opulent Venetian mask to wear and boast about!
Halloween Dragon Mask
In the mood for a touch of fantasy? Dragons are popular then and now, and for good reason! They are majestic, magical, extra, and extraordinary! Who wouldn’t want to embody their power and greatness? Be a mythical creature this Halloween with a top-notch Dragon mask. Add some dragon claws and a tail, and you’ll be the talk of the town – even after New Year’s! Be fierce, be beautiful, be a dragon!
Lace Masquerade Mask
Let’s make things clear – even if we love elaborate masks and hoods, sometimes (just sometimes) less is more! A lace mask, for instance, will never get out of style. It’s breathable, sophisticated, and won’t take away from the rest of your costume.
Or lack thereof, whatever tickles your fancy! Choose from delicate patterns and intricate lacework if your preference is subtlety and low lowkey. Who says you can’t be classy this Halloween?
Puppyman Mask
Now, pup masks bring playfulness to the otherwise dull party of usual vamp fangs and Frankenstein patches. The puppyman mask is endearing, with upright pup ears and a realistic snout. Want to have a conversation starter without having to think of a topic? Then fetch a puppyman mask!
Day of the Dead Skull Masquerade
Here’s a wildcard: The Day of the Dead Skull Mask! Inspired by the Día de los Muertos, this one is truly a work of art! It’s hand-painted and crafted with resin plaster to capture the essence of this Mexican celebration.
What makes it so special? Well, just look at the intricate skull designs and vivid colors it features! It’s excellent for those who want to celebrate life amid Halloween’s darkness.
Cow Mask
Leave everyone speaking double Dutch when you steer clear of the ordinary and choose to become a big, black cow! You read that right – a cow (the good kind)! The cow mask is an unexpected choice, for sure, but it holds endless possibilities!
For instance, be an angry cow this Halloween and charge toward others (in a pretend way) to be the life of the party. All you need is creativity, after all!
Gold Black Fringe Masquerade Mask
Want to kick back and just enjoy sipping on drinks during your Halloween party? Then there’s nothing wrong with picking a simple but glamorous fringe masquerade mask. The ombre fringe grants you a mesmerizing aura. You’ll surely be catching a lot of eyes at any Halloween bash.
What’s more, these masks are designed with your comfort in mind. They are lightweight – there will never be a problem if you wear them throughout the night and even the morning after! Here’s another reason to get this mask: They are customizable!
Human Mask
Sometimes… let’s be honest. Often, the most unsettling mask is the one that mirrors us. A plain, human mask that has your likeness but is not you? Now, that’s some major Black Mirror moves right there. It’s creepy and alarming.
You know that feeling? That eerie sense of the uncanny? Yes, that’s the one the human mask is trying to evoke! This one’s a classic but spine-tingling pick.
Caring for Your Halloween Masquerade Accessories
It’s a privilege to get your hands on these exquisite pieces, but how should you care for them? Especially since some of these masks cost a pretty penny, knowing the secrets of keeping them in tip-top shape is a priority!
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Gentle Does It: Being gentle will get you a long, long way. This, too, applies to cleaning your masks and hoods. Lace, silicone, whatever material you have, you need to treat them with care. Like they’re so expensive (which some are, in reality). For starters, use a damp cloth and get to wiping. Just to be sure, veer away from harsh chemicals. Don’t rub too enthusiastically, as well!
Watch the Paint: Masks with intricate paintwork require more attention and caution. They are, after all, a work of stunning art! Go for soft brushes or gentle (yet again) dusting cloth so as not to chip the paint.
Store Them Right: Need we say this? Despite their beauty, you can’t use these masks for everyday wear. So, to get them ready for the next extravagant party you’re attending, stow them in a dry and cool place. Direct sunlight is a no-no as it makes colors fade and break down even the fabrics’ fiber!
Give Em Space: A lot of it! If you can, that is. You’ll do these masks and hoods a disservice by cramping them in a common box or drawer. Allow them some breathing room so they don’t crush or warp.
Proper Storage to Ensure Longevity
Hang ‘Em High: This is especially true if you have grabby kids or any grabby guests, to be honest. If you can’t have a dedicated room in your house for your hoods and masks, store them up high. Think tops of drawers or behind glass cabinets, on the top shelf.
Use Tissue Paper: If you have to stack your masks and hoods together, place tissue paper in between them. Laundry meshes work well, too. This is so you can prevent any scratches or sticking.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Connected to the “avoid sunlight” tip from above, you should also steer clear of places with extreme temp changes. Avoid the basement or the attic, for instance. Their temperature fluctuations will damage the hoods and masks over time.
Label Your Treasures: Vying to be a masks and hoods collector? Even if you’re not, it’ll do you well to label your storage containers. This makes it easier to locate things when the next big bash rolls around!
Ready for Halloween?
After learning all that – are you looking forward to Halloween? You should be! There are many masquerade masks and hoods to try out and have fun with – don’t waste this time with boring, sexy bunnies or overrated superheroes!
Be something different! Let your imagination run wild! It’s your one night to make your fantasies – no matter how weird they may be – a reality! Don’t be afraid to be glamorous and playful! Most of all, have a blast!
