2020 has ushered in a fully-fledged, pandemic face mask industry that includes high-end fashion designers and luxury brands. The chic styles of the designer face masks highlighted below aren't suitable for essential work, but they could be fun and functional choices for people who are social distancing in public (here's how to make your mask more comfortable).
One pandemic expert told CNET, "we'll be living with face masks for years," so it may not be a bad idea to have a versatile collection of coverings.
If you feel like splurging on a luxurious designer mask or just want to browse, these six fashion brands are selling fancy face coverings that make a stylish statement. Read on for our best face mask buying tips. This story is regularly updated.
Read more: 7 face mask myths debunked: What to know about coverings, COVID-19 and your health
What you need to know about face masks and coronavirus
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that anyone over the age of two wear a face covering when in public or around people they don't live with. Here are some face mask styles designed for kids.
- Some experts claim that the coronavirus is airborne, although the science hasn't officially been settled yet.
- Masks with multiple layers may trap larger respiratory droplets ejected by sneezing, coughing or talking.
- You should wash the mask before and after wearing it.
- The mask should cover your nose and chin, and be snug enough to prevent gaps.
Michael Ngo, a designer who creates looks for celebrities, is selling face masks to the public. The prices of his luxurious face masks range from $110 for a vinyl mask to $500 for a Swarovski-crystal-encrusted mask. 100% of the net proceeds are donated to the LA Food Bank.
xSuit, a men's suit company, has designed face masks for men and women. You can choose from masks with flowers, 3D wings and more. The masks cost $120.
Proenza Schouler, a New York-based women's clothing and accessories brand, is offering a reusable face mask for a limited time from the brand's collection fabric for $100. 100% of the net proceeds will be donated to the New York City Mayor's Covid-19 Emergency Relief Fund.
Collina Strada's cloth face mask styles are made from deadstock materials and are considered unique due to limited fabric. Each reusable mask features bows and will cost you $100.
Akris has face masks in multiple colors for $100 each. 50% of the proceeds from each mask sale will be donated to The Children's Defense Fund.
VPL is a swimwear and home goods company that's now designing face masks. One of its Japanese silk masks will cost you $125. Note that since the stylish face mask styles are 100% silk, they're dry clean only.
More face mask tips
- Face coverings, N95 masks and surgical masks: Who they're for and who to use them
- The best neck gaiters in 2020
- What you can do to make your face mask more comfortable
- What you need to know about making a homemade face mask
- Where you're required to wear a face mask
- Where to buy clear face masks that show off your smile
- Face masks: These are the best and worst materials for protecting against coronavirus
More information about the COVID-19 pandemic
- Coronavirus unemployment: Everything to know about how to apply, payments and more
- Think you or someone you live with has coronavirus? What you should know and do
- Coronavirus testing: How long does it take to get test results for COVID-19?
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
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