Fashion has always had a way of taking our core wardrobe essentials — outerwear, underwear, and everything in between — and turning them into statement pieces. Consider the trusty trench coat, for example, which was originally created to shield soldiers from the elements but, over time, turned into one of the most distinctive utility apparel items a person could own. And don't get us started on how the functional bike short has morphed into a top streetwear trend that will not go away (even after its initial rise and fall in the '90s). It's no surprise, then, that the protective face coverings we've been advised (and in some cases, ordered) to wear outdoors to curb the spread of the coronavirus have quickly been embraced and beautified by the fashion world.
"It just felt like there was a need [for a stylish face mask]," says Hillary Taymour, founder of the sustainable clothing brand Collina Strada. "I was wearing brightly colored masks walking over the bridge daily to the studio and it put a smile on everyone’s face. So why not bring that to the general public?"
Taymour began producing non-medical face masks in mid-March, drawing on the crafty skills of model and friend Sasha Melnychuk to design something protective yet personal. The final product was a remarkable marriage of motifs featuring Collina Strada's signature ribbons — a fixture of the brand's runway shows — and the vibrant patterns of already available deadstock fabric. This kind of creative take on meeting consumer needs during the pandemic allows shoppers to adhere to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidelines without losing touch with the familiarity of their personal style. Masks may still feel like an unusual addition to our daily routines because of the way they conceal the parts of ourselves that are normally exposed, but that doesn't mean our identities have to be hidden too. By opting for the right print to suit your own aesthetic and making a purchase you know will benefit those in need, wearing a face mask can become more than just our collective responsibility — it can be an entirely new form of self-expression.
"With every purchase [of a Collina Strada mask], you are donating five masks to healthcare workers," Taymour says. "The design just brings a little sunshine during one of the most difficult times we have seen in this lifetime."
Taymour was one of many designers to pivot to non-medical face mask production with the goal of giving back as the coronavirus crisis hit its devastating crescendo. Companies like Reformation and Sanctuary also reacted quickly by organizing local manufacturers to do the same using fabrics from their warehouses. New York-based label Alice+Olivia announced that it would donate 5,000 face masks to medical centers around the country while selling consumer-friendly options online. In addition to equipping customers with the coverings they need, founder Stacey Bendet pointed out a greater purpose of this initiative: "Let's show support for our community and the doctors, nurses, delivery workers, and first responders who are combatting this crisis on the front lines,” she said in a press release. The more non-medical face masks made available to the public, the less of a strain there will be on the medical-grade materials our heroes on the front lines require to protect themselves on the job.
Ahead, we've rounded up a list of fashion brands that are enhancing the process of mask manufacturing with their unique brands of sartorial savoir-faire. Face coverings are a crucial way for us to keep one another safe when we're in public, and they aren't going anywhere. So go ahead and get comfortable with one that speaks to your own style, be that in the form of something upcycled, a badass camo print, delicate florals — even toile, if that's your thing. You do you, as long as you're doing it responsibly.
COVID-19 has been declared a global pandemic. Go to the CDC website for the latest information on symptoms, prevention, and other resources.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Collina Strada is a fashionable platform for climate awareness, social awareness, change, and self-expression — all of which come together in the designer's beautifully made face masks. The masks, made from deadstock materials, fasten with delightfully patterned bows and feature an opening to insert your filter inside. With the purchase of one mask for yourself, you will also be providing five more to healthcare workers in New York City.
Collina Strada Fashion Face Mask With Bows, $, available at Collina Strada
Cynthia Rowley has produced a really nice variety of 100% cotton face masks in both happy floral prints and sleek solids. We especially enjoy the detail of this embroidered version, which comes in five chic colorways.
Cynthia Rowley Embroidered Cotton Mask, $, available at Cynthia Rowley
To benefit frontline healthcare workers, 20% of the proceeds from Araks Protective Face Masks will be donated to GetUsPPE, a non-profit grassroots coalition organized to address the PPE shortage worldwide. These beautiful masks are made of 100% cotton with adjustable ties and come in a solid selection of unique colors and prints.
As a more recent addition to his More Joy collection, Christopher Kane created both an adult and child sized face mask printed with the iconic saying that seems to be more relevant now than ever. These masks are treated with their patented VIRO FORMULA ™ which provides effective protection from viruses and bacteria for up to 30 washes.
Christopher Kane More Joy Face Mask, $, available at Christopher Kane
Staud's sweet mask sets are sold in packs of 3, come in 2 color variations, and are made from their excess cotton-poplin fabric. You can even shop their site to "Match Your Mask", so you can easily sort through their stock to find the perfect dress in a coordinating print.
Excluding the cost of production, all additional proceeds from these lightweight moisture-wicking face masks will be donated to International Medical Corps working to stop the spread of COVID-19 and to the Tory Burch Foundation, working to advance women’s empowerment and women entrepreneurs.
Tory Burch Printed Face Mask, Set of 5, $, available at Tory Burch
Made from a soft ribbed knit, we're positive you can find a Lisa Says Gah mask to coordinate with ANY outfit. Even better, with every mask purchase, they'll donate 2 meals to the San Francisco Marine Food Bank.
Lisa Says Gah Knit Mask, $, available at Lisa Says Gah
As a go-to destination for gifts and jewelry, of course BaubleBar has added face protection to their accessory repertoire. These mask sets are soft, breathable, and double layered with adjustable ear loops.
BaubleBar Adjustable Face Mask Set of 2, $, available at BaubleBar
With every mask set purchased, this New York-based brand is donating a set of masks to essential workers. 25% of the profits from their sales will also be donated to DirectRelief.org to help equip health professionals in resource-poor communities.
Jennifer Behr Leopard Cotton Face Mask, Set of 2, $, available at Jennifer Behr
These super sweet masks by LoveShackFancy are sewn by hand, double lined, and made from their signature floral fabric scraps. Grab one while you can because they've been known to sell out quick!
LoveShackFancy Face Mask, $, available at loveshackfancy
All Baggu face masks are made of 100% organic quilters cotton, which is extra effective at blocking out respiratory droplets due to its tight weave and thick thread. Additionally, they have adjustable straps, a pocket for a filter insert, and of course come in Baggu's unique range of funky colors. For every pack of masks sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to a rotating selection of organizations.
You may have seen this exact blue seersucker face mask being worn by the Duchess of Sussex herself! If this classic summer print isn't totally your vibe, Royal Jelly Harlem makes adult and children's masks in a wide range of colors and patterns. Each one is made of 100% cotton, double-lined, and includes a filter pocket.
For a little extra confidence boost, we recommend a face mask by DSquared2. This one is made from a high-quality knit that can be washed up to 100 times.
DSquared2 Techno Knit Face Mask, $, available at LUISAVIAROMA
The Great's face masks are made in Los Angeles from their remnant fabric, are double-layered, and reversible. For every purchase, they donate a mask to the staff at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.
The Great The Reversible Face Mask, $, available at The Great
Of course we can count on Re/done to make a cool set of sustainable face masks made from upcycled denim and bandanas. The masks feature a double-lining of fabric with elastic ear loops and a nose clip to secure around your face. And for every mask purchased, Re/done will donate five medical grade masks to frontline heroes in partnership with Donate PPE.
RE/DONE Upcycled Denim & Bandana Face Masks Set, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
For the perfect leopard print accessory to transition into fall, look no further than Eclecticist's Hunter Leopard Face Mask. Their mask features a pocket for a filter insert and adjustable straps for just the right fit.
Eclecticist Hunter Leopard Face Mask, $, available at Eclecticist
While you won't find any medical-grade products available on Etsy, many of its crafty vendors have shifted to selling handmade masks and other fabric gear that serve as a barrier between you and your surroundings. From luxurious satin fabrics to paisley and toile prints, the market place is a treasure trove of unique face-covering finds.
KGVCX Satin Nude Straight Cut Face Mask, $, available at Etsy
With the financial support of its community, Tanya Taylor is currently producing nearly 30,000 masks to be donated to hospitals in New York and Canada. In line with CDC’s latest recommendations, the fashion brand has now launched consumer face masks created from excess fabric. With every pack purchase, Tanya Taylor will donate the funds to create one non-medical grade mask for donation.
Vera Bradley quickly converted their Fort Wayne sewing facility to manufacture cotton face masks to help protect essential workers and the general public — and it comes as no surprise that you can choose between all sorts of the brand's signature paisley prints and brightly colored motifs. These non-medical masks are made from soft cotton and feature dual-layer protection with an inside slip opening for a disposable filter.
Vera Bradley Cotton Face Mask (Non-Medical), $, available at Vera Bradley
While The RealReal is known and loved for being the largest online marketplace for authenticated, consigned luxury goods, the site has also become host to a designer mask sale in support of frontline workers in partnership with Fashion Girls for Humanity. The goal is to support the fashion community during these difficult times while also offering new, non-medical grade masks with 100% of the proceeds being donated to Gowns For Good Made in America. You can even shop decorative accessories to layer on top of your mask to add some major edge to your look, like this upcycled, beaded style from Gypsy Sport.
Gypsy Sport Lilac Decorative Mask, $, available at The RealReal
For gingham that's prettier than a picnic blanket, check out the new face mask styles from New York-based lifestyle brand Giovanna. After making 500 masks for donation, the company has shifted to manufacturing a shoppable online collection for women, men, and teens. Each mask has a double layer of cotton and an additional layer of interfacing for extra filtration, and for every mask sold Giovanna will donate funds to cover the cost of an N95 mask for RETI's Rapid Resilience program.
Giovanna Watercolor Gingham Face Mask, $, available at Giovanna
Look no further than the online retailer Shopbop as your trusty resource for finding trendy reusbale face masks — like this bright pink style made from a lightweight jersey material featuring a striking metallic finish.
The Mighty Company Face Covering With Metallic Finish, $, available at Shopbop
Dare we suggest we've detected somewhat of a metallic trend happening here? Saks Fifth Avenue is also selling shimmery nylon face covering options that can be washed by hand and feature a mesh interior lining. This set is currently available on pre-order and expecting to ship no later than June 1.
Heroine Sport 3-Piece Metallic Cloth Face Covering Set, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
American luxury house St. John launched a striking selection of limited-edition Care Masks that are sustainably crafted from surplus pique fabric. Plus, when you buy one of these masks, St. John will donate three non-surgical antimicrobial masks to those in need.
St. John Collection Camel Pique Animal Print Care Mask, $, available at St. John
Available on Revolve are double-layered face masks with a viscose satin-twill overlay by Karina Grimald. The green and pink floating floral motif feels like it's fresh off a tropical island — where you'll find us mentally residing for the remainder of 2020.
Karina Grimaldi Amanda Face Mask, $, available at Revolve
Since the beginning of this outbreak, fashion brand Alice + Olivia has been mobilizing its teams to create and distribute protective masks to hospitals and communities in need. Now, they're helping to stop community spread with non-medical protective masks made available to the public. The masks, featuring the brand’s iconic “Stace Face” pattern, are made from jersey material for reuse, wash-ability, and comfort. Plus, for every mask sold, Alice + Olivia will donate one to the medical community and beyond.
Alice + Olivia Staceface Adjustable Face Mask, $, available at Alice + Olivia
Each one of these Madewell masks is crafted from leftover fabric scraps, which means every color is a limited edition. They are designed to fit over the top of the nose and below the chin. In addition to launching washable and reusable face masks for their customers, Madewell and J.Crew have donated 75,000 single-use face masks to Montefiore Medical Center in New York.
Madewell Three-Pack Non-Medical Face Masks, $, available at Madewell
Handmade by the local Nashville artist behind the apparel company Emlee, these masks feature a trendy two-tone pattern cut to fit your face. Each mask is hand-sewn by local seamstresses using deadstock linen, cotton, and hemp fabrics and lined with 100% USA-made cotton twill for comfort.
EMLEE Upcycled Linen & Cotton Lined Mask, $, available at Nisolo
Mindfully made clothing and accessories brand Abacaxi is producing reusable, double-layer fabric face masks from 100% woven cotton. These are made ethically in NYC using deadstock fabrics, and for every mask sold, Abacaxi is working with The Mask Fund to donate the amount needed to purchase one N95 mask for health care workers.
Abacaxi Cotton Face Mask With Filter Pocket, $, available at Abacaxi
Trendy travel wear brand Summersalt is now offering machine-washable, non-medical grade face coverings made from 100% cotton, recycled materials and sold in sets of three. The "Lavender Fields" print is perfect for days when you feel like making a statement, whereas the black and yellow-white color-block alternatives will suit a more neutral vibe. For every set sold, Summersalt will donate a face covering to a worthy organization doing their part to help the larger community. Currently, the public can DM @summersalt via Instagram to nominate an organization that would benefit from this donation.
Summersalt 3-Pack Face Coverings, $, available at Summersalt
This quirky L.A. brand launched a selection of face masks adorned with fun prints to represent your kookier side. The designs are flexible, washable, and reusable and have a pocket to insert your replaceable filter. And with motifs like "Eva Avocado" and "Tayto Potato," you're bound to crack a smile while making this purchase.
Smoko Tayto Potato Face Mask, $, available at Smoko
For anyone who can't resist a refreshing pop of pastel for summer, Stoney Clover's pink and mint-hued cotton masks are definitely the way to go. The adjustable straps mean this mask can be tied to your perfect size, with the option of adding a heart-shaped bead or two for a touch of whimsy. Available in standard and petite styles, the latter can be worn either by kids or by adults who want a more snug fit.
Stoney Clover Lane Pastel Heart Masks Set of 2, $, available at Stoney Clover Lane
Revolve, the retailer known for its trendy clothing labels and glossy Instagram campaigns, is now offering 2-packs of re-usable face masks with elastic straps (with the option of a tie-dye print, of course!) from the brand Onzie — now available on pre-order with an estimated delivery date of May 30.
Onzie 2 Pack Protective Face Masks, $, available at Revolve
But if you're not one for shiny fabrics and funky patterns, keep it sleek and simple with this black, double-layered option from the hosiery brand Wolford — available on Shopbop.
Wolford Care Face Covering, $, available at Shopbop
If you've got an eclectic style, there are certainly reusable mask designs made to align with your unique taste. The Colombia-based swimwear brand Maaji is known for its whimsical prints, textures, and playful details — all of which have been applied to its new selection of patterned face coverings.
Maaji Maaji Calm 5-Pack Face Coverings, $, available at Shopbop
The unisex designs by sustainable brand KES feature adjustable drawstrings so you can fasten your mask to the perfect fit. They're made from a breathable, 100% silk charmeuse fabric. You can opt for a simple shades of white and black or go for something a little more playful such as cobalt blue or gingham. Additionally, for every face mask purchased, KES will donate one face mask to a healthcare professional.
KES KES Sustainable Washable Face Mask - Cotton (1+1 donation), $, available at KES
L.A.-based brand Sanctuary has launched its Essential Lifestyle Masks for consumers, designed to create a fashion-forward barrier to protect you from your surroundings. These are currently available on pre-order. At the same time, the company is using its resources and the profits of its lifestyle masks to produce over 5 million N95 masks to support the medical community (N95s are not for sale) as they battle this virus on the frontlines across the nation.
Sanctuary 5 Pack Fashion PPE Masks, $, available at Sanctuary
This NYC-based sporty bag brand has launched an initiative to get non-medical grade masks to as many people as possible. Reusable, machine-washable, and designed for comfort, these masks are constructed from excess fabric cuttings of Caraa bags to reduce waste and make use of these leftover pieces for good.
Fashion's favorite leggings and intimates brand is taking its signature approach of high-quality comfort to the production of non-medical cloth face masks. Each pack includes one solid black mask and one printed mask of choice, and for each of these sales Commando will donate a mask to its local chapter of United Way. The washable and reusable masks are made from an up-cycled Italian microfiber outer layer and a double-faced European microfiber and cotton blend lining.
Commando Non-Medical Cloth Face Mask 2-Pack, $, available at Commando
Offered in packs of four containing a spectrum of neutral colors that reflect the sleek Jonathan Simkhai design codes, these masks from the designer label feature an optional pouch for removable filter use. For every pack purchased, Jonathan Simkhai will donate a civilian mask to local front-line essential workers in need of non-medical mask protection.
Jonathan Simkhai Fabric Mask Pack, $, available at Jonathan Simkhai
These reusable, non-medical grade masks from the charming sustainable fashion company Christy Dawn are fashioned out of 100% doubled deadstock cotton. Each order is for 10 total masks — five of which will be shipped to you with the remaining half donated to those in need. Whether you're the stripes type or all about plaid, there's a pattern for everyone among these eco-friendly styles.
Christy Dawn 3-Pack Sustainable Linen Masks, $, available at Christy Dawn
Rent The Runway developed its own protective masks with an eye towards fashion and sustainability, so they’re washable and reusable (and NOT for rent... just to be clear). Made from 100% cotton or cotton blend and lined in cotton/poly, the fabric used has been salvaged as scraps from prior production runs or purchased as unused surplus from textile mills. Plus, for each 5-pack sold, RTR will give a 5-pack to a community in need through its partnership with Project Renewal.
Rent The Runway Reusable Masks Buy 5, Give 5, $, available at Rent The Runway
The Windwitch was launched by an artist living aboard who is currently rebuilding a sailboat of the same name. Her reusable Seersucker Face Mask is made with 100% cotton fabric that is great to wear for warmer weather. It also features a pocket for replaceable filters, an adjustable nose bridge, and elastic strap and comes in charming, understated prints like white and blue stripes and vibrant, Caribbean-inspired plaids. There is a free tutorial and pattern on There is also a tutorial on The Windwitch's blog page for how to DIY your own mask.
The Windwitch Light Blue Seersucker Face Mask, $, available at The Windwitch
Reformation has partnered with the City of Los Angeles on LA Protects, an initiative to organize local manufacturers to make five million non-medical masks. You can pick some up for yourself or donate to someone in need directly through the retailer's website.
Reformation 5X Masks - L.A. Protects, $, available at Reformation
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Post a Comment