Mardi Gras feather masks have a long history in New Orleans, first worn to hide the identity of people during balls and parades. Now, they've come to be associated with Mardi Gras, in general, and no one's trying to hide. Every year, lots of people head to New Orleans for their Mardi Gras celebration.

If you're going to be in the city this year, or you're planning to have a Mardi Gras party of your own at home, choosing the right mask is an important part of getting into the spirit. Here are some tips on how to pick a feather mask for Mardi Gras.

Think about costume ideas. There are plenty of options to choose from, and some of them can get pretty out there. Getting Mardi Gras masks to match your costume is a lot of fun, and can take a costume from so-so to amazing.

Check out sellers in the French Quarter of New Orleans if you're in the area. Some will even offer mail order. That's the best way to get truly authentic feather masks. Of course, you can also get attractive masks at ordinary stores. They're just likely to be quite as ostentatious.

If you don't already have a costume planned, you can also play things safe. The official Mardi Gras colors are green, gold, and purple. You can get simple Mardi Gras masks in these shades and match nearly any theme or parade. Add in a brightly colored headdress or wig to match the mask you choose, and your costume will be complete.

Just make sure you pay attention to practical matters. Headdresses should be light enough to wear for several hours without making your tired. Masks and other costume elements can be large, and may get in the way, so think about any doorways or small spaces you'll need to pass through. Try wearing your mask for a while at home before the celebration. That way, you'll be used to it when the big party comes, and won't have to worry about bumping into things or getting hung up on objects as you pass.

Masks should be easy and comfortable to wear. Choose masks that sit well around the eyes and mouth, and which don't block your visibility. If you're buying a full face mask, pick one that's easy to adjust for eating and drinking - you'll do a lot of it at Mardi Gras! The right mask will make a huge difference in how your celebration goes, and can be a lovely keepsake for years to come. No Mardi Gras costume is complete without a beautiful, colorful feather mask. Take the time to pick the one that's right for you, and have a wonderful Mardi Gras.