Designer Face Masks are Happening

 

We’ve gone through a wide range of emotions over the past few weeks, but, perhaps more than anything, we’ve felt conflicted. We want to support small businesses by continuing to shop, but we don’t want to risk the health of those working behind-the-scenes and delivering packages. We’d like to make the most of our time at home, binging shows and trying out fashion tricks, but we don’t want to forget about how serious this pandemic actually is.

Now, there’s another thing that’s been leaving us torn: fashion face masks, which are being heavily promoted by brands after the Centers For Disease Control recommended that all individuals wear face masks or cloth coverings in public. Alice + Olivia plans to donate one mask to a community in need for every one of theirs that’s sold, while Collina Strada has made plans to include a mask with every purchase on its site. StockX also continues to sell streetwear mask options, so if you’re looking for something from Off-White or Supreme and don't mind a hefty price tag, you can find one there.

n some ways, it’s a good thing. We need to wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and not everyone owns the materials (or has the seamstress skills) to make their own. Many brands promise that proceeds will be donated to charities, or go toward making more masks for those working on the front lines. And, when it comes to smaller companies, selling masks might be a way stay afloat, and pay workers who would otherwise be laid-off or furloughed.

We also don’t want to bash those who enjoy looking cute while self-quarantining and social distancing. We've been playing around with our makeup, too; getting dressed in our matching sweats sets, and throwing on jewelry — we’re finding joy and some normalcy in the little things, which in turn benefits our mental health. Plus, as GQ pointed out, streetwear masks were already a thing (remember when Billie Eilish wore a sheer one to the 2020 Grammys?), and buying a designer option might actually be easier than trying to find one on Amazon.

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