Masks: Make it a Statement

If there’s one thing that has stayed consistent during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s mask wearing. Widely accepted as one of the only sure ways to prevent the spread of the virus, masks are heavily suggested by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and state-mandated by some governors. Like it or not, mask fashion is our new reality these days, so why not embrace it?

From the hands of Etsy sellers to those of designer brands - Off-White, Johnny Was, Collina Strada, and everyone in between - a timely mask revolution in the fashion world is well underway. 

Designer face masks might come at a steep price but may be a worthwhile investment, as the foreseeable future is masked. A thorough collection of Off-White masks guarantees you won’t be put on a waitlist, as some collections, like Kim Kardashian’s Skims masks, are on backorder. 

Johnny Was offers several packs of masks, coming in a set of five for $25. You’ll have back-ups for friends and won't have to break the bank. 

I don’t even have to say more about Collina Strada’s fashion face masks when they’re fastened with bows.

Working out

Under Armour sells a mask for athletes, offered in different sizes for guaranteed fit. Each mask is fitted with water-resistant fabric on the exterior and an interior foam layer to block moisture and sweat from coming through. Cooling fabric adds extra comfort and wearability. Each high-tech mask runs at a price of $30. 

Don’t “maskne” me

If you’ve recently been plagued by “maskne,” know that synthetic materials are more at cause for breakouts, and a natural fiber-cloth mask is your best bet. Choose a smooth textured fabric - think pillowcase or T-shirt material - for your everyday mask-wearing, according to an article from Johns Hopkins Medicine. This one, from MDacne boasts a cotton and rayon blend face mask, with added anti-microbial, antiviral and antibacterial properties. 

Etsy designer

Even Etsy sellers have taken to the designer face mask trend, creating custom masks in iconic patterns. Careful, they’re not messing around. Designer patterns can range from $8 to $128. Check out this Gucci mask sold on Etsy, scrapped from a vintage Italian silk dress, the seller describes below the list.

The functional one

If you wear glasses, you need this mask. You already know what I’m talking about - the foggy glasses situation. The battle between breathing and seeing is finally over. Find your secret weapon here, another solution from the mask-making gods of Etsy. 

Play dress-up 

The Vampire’s Wife wouldn’t want you to ruin all the looks you’ll be serving on a night out with a sub-par mask. This silk, ruffle-edged mask could count as your statement piece for the night.

Something fun 

To be honest, even my socks haven’t been matched in a while, but I still can understand the feeling of completeness when even your bra and undies match. So, how could you say no to a matching mask and scrunchy set? Revolve is selling two different sets by Lovers + Friends here.

Happy shopping! 

Bonus points if you can count how many times I used the word “mask” in here.

Written by: Vivian Roach

Photos by: Tatum Hanson

Edited by: Josie Gruber