Back to School (Mask) Shopping
By Brinlea La Barge
In just a few short weeks, students will begin to filter back to campus to find the latest safety precautions limiting social interaction and academic and extracurricular activities. Adjusting to this new normal of socially-distant college life will be a feat in itself, and it’s up to us to ensure the health of both ourselves and those around us. As the virus should have it, that means wearing a mask in almost all social settings, whether lounging with friends, in class, retrieving dinner from Ross, or strolling across campus.
Lucky for us, popular designers have made it their mission to embrace mask-wearing not only as a protective shield but as a fashion statement. Paired effortlessly with any and every outfit, cloth face masks are bound to be this fall’s hottest—and most necessary—item to hit the market. From floral patterns to animal prints, soft tie dyes to simple colors, these masks create the perfect opportunity to enhance your accessory game while protecting your (and other’s!) health. What’s more, many brands have pledged a portion of their proceeds to helping healthcare heroes and to evolving the Black Lives Matter movement.
We’ve put together a collection of some of our favorite cloth mask designs so you can arrive at school in style. Of course, if cloth isn’t your thing, you can purchase disposable face masks through almost any online business (such as Amazon or Etsy) for a cheaper price—though we urge you to consider more sustainable mask options—or sew your own using this tutorial provided by the CDC.
1. LoveShackFancy
Each LoveShackFancy face mask is sewn using leftover fabric, and a percent of proceeds will be donated to support front line workers. These pretty patterned masks sell out fast, so be sure to hop online to purchase yours or join the waitlist.
2. Z Supply
These soft cloth masks are knit with a 100% cotton lining and antimicrobial interior layer. For smaller faces, you can also choose from a variety of kids’ masks, each pack $11.
Reusable Face Masks, $12 for a set of 2
3. Sanctuary
Choose from a number of fun patterns on the Sanctuary online mask shop, from cool
camouflage to bold animal prints. With each mask purchase, Sanctuary will provide
masks to organizations in need. Also check out the brand’s collection of matching
antibacterial gloves, designed to keep you both safe and chic.
Fashion PPE Masks, $28 for a set of 5
4. MOTHER
Shop MOTHER’s array of pretty printed masks, each constructed with a filter pocket, nosepiece, and elastic ear loops.
5. Resa
Resa’s variety packs feature five masks, each constructed with 100% polyester and available in pastel prints, bold black designs, and summer florals.
Pack of Masks in Pastels, $30 for a set of 5
6. RE/DONE
Each RE/DONE mask is produced using upcycled materials (like Levi’s denim) and reconstructed to form a fun protective face shield. With each purchase, the brand will donate five masks to front line workers.
7. Revolve
Revolve’s extensive protective face mask collection has got you covered, offering a range of brands and designs to help you pair the perfect mask with your next outfit. Shop this red mini floral face mask by Lovers + Friends, available online for $14, and others here
8. Abacaxi
Built with two layers of colorful cotton material and available in sizes XS to L, Abacaxi’s masks are sure to brighten your mood. Don’t forget that a complimentary mask is provided with any clothing purchase! The brand has promised 10% of profits accrued during the month of August to Black Mamas Matter, Black Women’s Blueprint, and the Black Women’s Health Imperative.
9. Amadi
Amadi’s 100% cotton jersey face masks are available in an assortment of colors and patterns, from navy gingham to sunshine floral. You can also shop the brand’s tie back scarf masks, which can be worn to block the nose and mouth, or tied as a wide headband.
Expandable Ear-Loop Mask in Navy Gingham, $12.
10. Anthropologie
Featuring over 10 unique brands and designers, Anthropologie’s collection of reusable face masks are light and versatile. Shop this tie-back cotton mask by Roopa Pemmaraju, an ethical and sustainable luxury fashion line celebrating artisans in India and beyond, and more online.