Let’s face it: Masks are going to be with us for a while. But that doesn’t mean you have to set aside your personal style and settle for standard, mass-produced masks.
Instead, treat face masks as you would any other accessory like a handbag or a headband and seek out designs that elevate the ordinary, adding aesthetic appeal to the existing public health benefit. These five nonmedical-grade mask styles do just that. And they all come with an additional incentive — each sale benefits an independent fashion designer or a local store.
Whether your vibe is feminine, Western, minimal or maximal, be sure to stock up on your favorite so you can have every social situation covered in style.
Chic Chiffon
Burnett New York is known for its signature blend of femininity and strength, and its new line of masks continues the trend. Hand sewn in New York City, the lining of each mask is made from 100% mask-certified cotton and includes a sewn-in filter along with a light wire at the bridge of the nose. Then, it’s all expertly covered with an outer layer of uber-chic sheer chiffon. Opt for a discrete elastic ear loop or generous strips of chiffon that fit around the head and fold across the neck like a diaphanous scarf. $55 – $85, burnettnewyork.com
Streamlined and Sustainable
Wayre was already a recognized brand in the travel world, where those who appreciated packing light stocked up on separates made from its signature, silk-like fabric. Made from recycled plastic bottles, Wayre’s fabric is virtually stain-proof, odor-proof, wrinkle-proof and UV-ray resistant. The company’s line of masks offer significant filtering through incorporated layers of n-PTFE nano-microporous film, which protects against droplet transmission that is more than 99% effective, even after washing. Prices start at $26.70, shopwayre.com
A Dash of Designer
If designer logos are part of your fashion statement, it stands to reason that your mask game should keep up with the rest of your luxe look. Thankfully, that’s not a problem, thanks to an exclusive collection of masks available at Monkee’s of Fort Worth, a vibrant women’s boutique in Clearfork that’s locally owned. These masks are crafted from repurposed new and vintage designer silk scarves. Current designs feature scarf fabric from Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel. $55, Monkee’s of Fort Worth, 5234 Marathon Ave., Fort Worth, 682.703.8337, monkeesoffortworth.com
Best of the West
Whether your Western style reflects your love of Jackson Hole, Santa Fe, Aspen, or good ol’ Fort Worth, Ariat has a face mask fabric that captures the vibe. Its 100% cotton masks are available in a variety of colorful and festive prints including bandana, serape, and cheetah. Each mask is made with an aluminum strip for custom nose fitting, elastic ear loops, and an interior pocket to add in a disposable filter. $24.95. Cavender’s Stock Yards, 2601 Main St., Fort Worth, 817.625.2391, cavenders.com
Sealed with a Kiss
Los Angeles-based Clare V. infuses its Bisous masks with the same Paris-inspired charm that makes the line so popular. Each mask is made from 100% cotton remnant and deadstock fabric — meaning its eco-friendly — that’s been expertly mixed and matched for “mask-imum” appeal. Prints and patterns will vary, but each mask boasts adjustable ties, a chambray lining, and the brand’s own seal of approval: a pair of ruby red lips. $35, clarev.com