“A mask for every occasion, it is the holidays. ”
By now, we’re all used to “masking up” before leaving our homes. But not all are created equal. Disposable medical-grade masks are necessary for some, they’re not the best from a sustainability standpoint. A reusable, fabric face mask is a no-brainer for most of us so we like to think of them as a new accessory. Fashion in function.
Different fabrics have different feels—silk, knit, cotton, or blend. Ribbon or ear straps? You might have to try a few to find your ideal fit, but here are a few options from Passerbuys to make the decision easier.
Collina Strada Fashion Face Mask with Bows
recommended by nat guevara, fariha róisín
This year, Collina Strada has taken the fashion world by storm. If you’re into a bold, ultra-cool statement mask, look no further. Each of Collina Strada’s face masks is made of deadstock material and includes an opening for a filter. The mask has oversized bows that fasten around your ears, and “it certainly elevates an outfit from plain to statement-making,” says Nat Guevara.
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Mara Hoffman x Custom Collaborative Face Mask
recommended by céline semaan, erin allweiss
These Mara Hoffman x Custom Collaborative masks are reversible. They have adjustable ties that secure snugly behind the head or around the ears. When you buy one of these masks, you’re supporting to a collaboration that trains and supports women from low-income and immigrant communities to launch fashion careers and businesses.
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Heather Taylor Home Face Masks
recommended by natalie pace, holly liss
If you’re looking to stock up on a supply of soft, tasteful face masks, look no further than Heather Taylor Home’s pack of ten. These masks come in an assortment of colors and patterns and are all made with 100% cotton. Brand marketer Natalie Pace loves these masks because “they come in fun colors and patterns and you can throw them in the wash!”
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Uniqlo AIRism Face Mask
recommended by zan goodman
Uniqlo’s AIRism mask is the ultimate in simplicity, breathability, and functionality. The three layered masks come in three packs (white, grey, or black). You can also select from small, medium, or large for an optimal fit. At $15 a pack, these face masks are an easy, affordable option for everyday wear.
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Piehole Face Mask
recommended by tara thomas
Piehole makes fun masks. Chef Tara Thomas loves the “No Cash” cow print mask. Others are named “So Fetch” and “The Blair”. The vibrant prints make them standout statements, but we love that the mask tie doubles as a lanyard when not being worn. Piehole donates 50% of their profits to one of five causes that you choose, like Nourish NYC, Artist relief or NYC Healthcare Workers
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Roopa Pemmaraju
recommended by fariha róisín
For a mask that doubles as a work of art, consider one of a Roopa Pemmaraju’s. Statement tassels that hang down the back and beaded embroidery are just the start. A real testament of when life hands you lemons, make lemonade.
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Reimiro Breeze® Mask
recommended by rian fossett
These Reimiro 3D knit masks are lightweight, thanks to their use of a light technical yarn. They also use a “certified antiviral treatment” called ViralOff® that reduces the presence of viruses. Their recent collaboration with Eckhaus Latta and efforts toward sustainable materials (cotton yarns either upcycled or eco-certified), are worth noting.
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Baggu Fabric Mask
recommended by ivy weinglass
While Baggu might be known for their colorful, reusable shopping bags, they, like many, have branched out to create eye-catching masks. They use organic cotton and come in a rainbow of colors. You can choose tie fastenings or adjustable elastic loops. Stock-up with a 3-pack of mix-and-match that can feature range of patterns and colors from leopard to daisy prints to color-blocked cobalt and earth tones. According to ceramist Ivy Weinglass, they also “give amazing coverage, [and] are incredibly comfortable.”
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Nia Thomas 100% Silk Satin Face Mask
recommended by mina alyeshmerni
Nia Thomas’ silky smooth masks are made in her home studio using deadstock material. This mask comes in a glistening earthy copper, and its delicate ties allow you to fasten it adjustably behind your ears. It’s about as luxurious as a face covering can get.
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Wolford Masks
recommended by melanie coles
Wolford makes high quality, well-fitting masks. They come in black, lace pattern and silk. Simple, chic, entirely Wolford.
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Other recommendations include bailey hikawa (as recommended by Janine Lee), bFF Makeup Studio (as recommended by Fatima Jones), abacaxi (as recommended by fariha róisín) and Emmerich and Seeding Sovereignty (as recommended by Celine Semaan).
Words by Marina Sulmona