How to Celebrate Mardi Gras with Style: Elevated Décor That Honors Tradition

Let's be real, Mardi Gras décor can go one of two ways. You've gone the plastic bead and disposable tablecloths route, or you can bring that Fat Tuesday energy into your home with actual style. If you're a Louisiana homeowner who loves celebrating Carnival season but doesn't want your house looking like a party supply store exploded, this is for you.

Choose Quality Over Quantity

The biggest mistake people make with Mardi Gras decorating is thinking "more is more." Instead, invest in a few high-quality pieces that you'll actually want to bring out year after year. Think about it, would you rather have twenty cheap decorations that look tired after one season, or five beautiful pieces that become part of your home's story?

Choose substantial items: a well-made wreath for your front door, quality linens in the traditional colors, a stunning floral arrangement, and elegant glassware. When you have fewer, better pieces, you're not spending hours covering every surface. You're strategically placing beautiful items that make an impact while your home still

feels like your home, just dressed up for Carnival season.

Rethink the Traditional Colors

Purple, green, and gold are non-negotiable…they're tradition! But how you use these colors makes all the difference. Instead of bright, primary versions, look for deeper, richer tones. Think eggplant purple instead of grape, emerald or sage instead of lime green, and antique gold or brass instead of yellow.

A deep purple velvet pillow works for Mardi Gras and looks luxurious the rest of the year. Brass candlesticks? Elegant any time, perfect for Carnival season. Use these colors as accents rather than making them the entire show.

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Invest in Beautiful Textiles

This is where you can really elevate your Mardi Gras décor through beautiful fabrics. Choose quality linens in the Carnival colors that you can use year after year. A purple linen tablecloth, emerald green napkins, and gold-threaded table runners…these pieces bring sophistication to your celebration while honoring tradition.

Here's the thing about investing in good textiles: they're versatile. Those purple napkins work for Mardi Gras but also for Easter, Mother's Day brunch, or any spring dinner party. The green runner looks great for St. Patrick's Day. You're not buying single-use décor; you're building a collection of quality pieces that serve you throughout the year.

Create One Stunning Centerpiece. Start with real touch floral stems in the traditional colors that will look great year after year. Louisiana also has beautiful blooms available during Carnival season: irises (our state wildflower!), tulips, roses, and dahlias. Whether you choose fresh or faux stems, select a quality statement vase! Britt Hill Interiors has a wide selection of beautiful vases to choose from as well as real touch stems.

Layer in candles at varying heights using that 3-5-7 rule. Mix taper candles with votives in brass, gold, or mercury glass holders. The candlelight adds warmth and elegance that plastic decorations simply can't match.

If you want to incorporate traditional Mardi Gras elements, do it thoughtfully. A single, beautiful mask as part of your centerpiece reads as sophisticated and intentional. One or two strands of

quality beads (the kind that have weight) draped artfully can add that authentic New Orleans touch without overwhelming the table.

Upgrade Your Glassware

Here's something most people overlook: your glassware and serving pieces. Instead of plastic party cups, use actual glassware. You can find beautiful colored glassware in purple, green, and gold in store or at our online boutique.

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Style Your Entryway with Purpose

Your entryway sets the tone for your entire home. A beautiful wreath on your front door is classic Mardi Gras; when done well, it's stunning. Look for wreaths made with quality materials like magnolia leaves, feathers, masks, velvet ribbon, or florals.

Inside your entry, create a welcoming moment. A console table with a gorgeous floral arrangement, a few well-chosen accessories in the Carnival colors, and proper lighting. This doesn't need to be complicated; you can use a large vase with purple and white flowers or a pair of brass candlesticks. One or two statement pieces make more impact than a dozen small decorations fighting for attention.

Know When to Edit

Here's the thing about elevated Mardi Gras decorating: it requires restraint. Not every room needs to be decorated. Focus on the spaces where you'll gather, your dining room, kitchen, entry, and maybe your living room. Your bedrooms? Probably fine to leave those alone. Your bathrooms? A fresh hand towel in Carnival colors is plenty.

This editing process is what separates decorated homes from designed homes. When you choose quality pieces and place them strategically, every item gets to shine. Trust that a few beautiful, well-placed pieces will create more impact than a dozen mediocre ones. Your home should still feel like your home during Mardi Gras, just the festive, celebratory version

Shop Local for Authenticity

One of the best parts about celebrating Mardi Gras in Louisiana is that you're celebrating where

you live. Shop local for your Mardi Gras pieces.Elevated Mardi Gras decorating isn't about spending more money or following strict rules. It's about being intentional. Choose quality over quantity. Invest in pieces you'll love for years. Let the traditional colors shine through in sophisticated ways—deeper tones, quality fabrics, thoughtful arrangements.

Remember that you're celebrating a real cultural tradition with deep roots in Louisiana. Honor that by bringing authenticity to your décor. Shop local, incorporate genuine New Orleans elements, and don't be afraid to edit. Sometimes, the most elevated Mardi Gras décor is the one that knows when to stop.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Need help creating a beautifully designed Mardi Gras celebration in your Louisiana home? Our team at Britt Hill Interiors specializes in bringing elevated style to every season and celebration. Contact us to discuss how we can help you create spaces that honor tradition while reflecting your personal style.

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