Halloween masks come in three main types: full masks that cover the whole face (Michael Myers, Ghostface), half masks that cover the upper face and eye masks that frame the eyes. For a party with a full night of dancing, choose one that is light and does not block your view.
How do you choose a Halloween mask?
When choosing a Halloween mask, look at three things: your view, your breathing and whether it can stay on all night. In a crowded, dark party a wide field of view matters on the stairs and the dance floor. Putting the mask on and walking for a few minutes before buying shows how comfortable it will be over a whole night.
| Mask type | What it covers | For a whole night |
|---|---|---|
| Full mask | The whole face and head | Hard, needs taking off often |
| Half mask | Forehead, eyes and nose | Suitable |
| Eye mask | Around the eyes | The most comfortable |
What are the best-known Halloween masks?
Michael Myers mask
The blank white mask from Halloween (1978), Halloween's most recognisable mask. With navy work overalls it becomes a full costume.
Ghostface mask
The long white screaming mask from Scream (1996). A hooded black robe completes it.
Skull mask
Skull masks covering the whole face or the lower half work best with something plain, such as a suit.
Squid Game guard mask
The black mask marked with a circle, triangle or square from Netflix's 2021 series Squid Game. A pink jumpsuit completes the costume.
Venetian mask
Ornate masks from the carnival tradition that cover the eyes and forehead. An option that can be worn comfortably all night with smart clothes.
Animal masks
Animal masks such as a wolf, rabbit or cat are among the most comfortable when worn as half masks.
Hockey mask
The white hockey mask Jason Voorhees first wore in Friday the 13th Part III (1982), usually with red markings. Dark work clothes complete it.
Plague doctor mask
The long-beaked mask worn by plague doctors in 17th-century Europe, now a favourite at Halloween and carnivals. A black hat and a long black coat complete it.
Guy Fawkes mask
The smiling white mask from V for Vendetta (2005), named after Guy Fawkes, who took part in the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. A black hoodie or a suit completes it.
LED mask
A glowing neon mask, often sold as a Purge mask after the horror film series The Purge (2013). It is usually worn with a dark hoodie and needs batteries.
Can you wear a Halloween mask into a party?
At venues that check ID at the door, a mask that covers the whole face may need to come off at the entrance. Rules on masks vary by event, so check the ticket page or the organiser. Half and eye masks cause the fewest problems.
Where to buy a Halloween mask
Tahtakale, next to the Grand Bazaar, sells masks at wholesale prices. For a ready-made costume to go with the mask, Istanbul has Kostumpartim, where the code SAUCY gives 5% off. All the addresses are in where to buy a Halloween costume in Istanbul.
Costume ideas to go with the mask are in Halloween costume ideas for men and Halloween costume ideas for women.