6 striking designer face masks to buy in 2021
From bows and silk to crystals, we found six styles that are anything but ordinary.
Editor's note, March 8, 2023: The recommendations provided in this article are out of date and will not be updated going forward. While these picks were the best options available at the time, you may find some of these options have either changed or are no longer available. We recommend referring to the CDC and WHO, linked above, for current masking guidelines.
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.
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.
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?