Enchanted Evening: A Masquerade Ball Primer

A masquerade ball is one of intrigue and mystery. The night air is cool, and the dark nighttime sky is speckled with what seems like billions of diamond stars. As your carriage draws near to the castle, you can see the glow of light from lanterns in the drive and begin to hear the giddiness of the guests. It's exciting, you have butterflies in your stomach, and there's no telling what handsome masked stranger you might meet this night.

The masquerade ball must have been so much fun! Formal costumes and intricate, dramatic masks were worn by all. I don't know if anyone has given it much thought, but for a lady to dress for an event such as this, it was very involved. Colored stockings of crocheted lace, patterned and delicate, had to be decided on. Then came the garters, beribboned or embroidered with sequins or beads. Others were adorned with large flowers or bright birds. Corsets were worn underneath those extravagant dresses. These were delicate garments with fine whalebone and fancy lace. The silk corsets were cinched with laces, which could be an awful experience for a fuller figured woman. Gowns usually had low necks and were often made with satin brocade or delicate white tulle. With short sleeves, a tight waist, and a full skirt that opened down the front to show the stiff petticoat underneath, it's a wonder these women could move or breathe at all! But they looked like masked goddesses. Satin slippers often completed the look. Men looked equally spectacular in their satin suits, often decorated with lace collar and cuff.

Masks could be made to look mystical, magical, religious, or even humorous. Women's masks could be an expression of feminine beauty. Made with highly arched brows, almond-shaped eyes, and narrow chin, the mask was exquisite. Whether feathered, beaded, sequined, or a lot of each, these masks were colorful and expressive. Sometimes a wig of black, thick, shiny curls sat atop a feminine mask, offsetting the alabaster face.

Back in the 15th century Renaissance, in Italy, the masquerade ball became popular. They were the gathering of the upperclass to celebrate various pageants, marriages, or other uppity affairs. Taking place in an opera house or castle, these affairs were crowded as anyone who was anyone would attend. These were ceremonial events. Breads and meat would have been eaten, and brandy would have been served. Dancing and pleasure was had by all. These balls were especially popular in Venice and are a traditional event for the Venetian Carnival.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, masquerade balls became popular in Europe. Later on these costumed dances reached Colonial America. By this time they were appreciated by other classes of people as well as the upperclass. Sometimes they were held as a game for the guests. Participants would see who could determine who was whom among their masked friends, and it could be quite funny.

As always, there were killjoys to come along and try to banish masquerade balls entirely. I guess either they were too stuffy or simply went to one and got turned down for a dance with a particular lady they had their eye on. For whatever reason, they were against the ball. Claims were made that the events encouraged immorality and foreign influence.

Since masquerade balls are still held modern day, I guess they were unsuccessful. As for the ball of today, there is usually more emphasis put on the festive atmosphere than formal dancing or formal costumes. Everything has become less formal, which, to me, has taken away from the splendor of it all.