The ever-sparkly, strutting objets d’art known as the Dames de Perlage announced their 2023 theme, “We Make Mardi Gras Happen” for their 11th year as a krewe and their 10th year marching.
This year, each Dame will portray historical krewes like Minerva, Bacchus and Zulu as well as some recent additions such as krewes of House Floats and Red Beans. As in past years, the Dames design and hand- stitch bustiers, bustles and headdresses to recreate the Mardi Gras groups.
A Dames de Perlage corset.
“Hearing why each Dame chose their image to bead has been moving,” said Christine Clouatre, co-founder and Grande Dame. “Most were inspired by a fond memory that stayed with them from their childhood.” Co-founder and Grande Dame Julie Lodato agreed and added, “Those memories are filled with history and personal stories that are slowly disappearing. We are beading them back into life.”
Dames de Perlage has hosted blood drives, given food, promoted breast cancer awareness and worked with Animal Rescue New Orleans.
For more information, visit the Dames de Perlage Facebook page.
The Dames, along with their Dudes and the Big Fun Brass Band, can be seen here:
- Krewe of Freret – February 11
- Krewe of King Arthur – February 12
- Krewe of Oak – February 17
- Krewe of Tucks – February 18
- Dame Fine Second Line – February 20, Lundi Gras with lineup at 3 p.m. outside Acme in the French Quarter.
