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6 striking designer face masks to buy in 2021

From bows and silk to crystals, we found six styles that are anything but ordinary.

Katie Teague Writer II
Katie is a writer covering all things how-to at CNET, with a focus on Social Security and notable events. When she's not writing, she enjoys playing in golf scrambles, practicing yoga and spending time on the lake.
Expertise Personal Finance: Social Security and taxes
Katie Teague
3 min read

Editor's note, March 8, 2023: The recommendations provided in this article are out of date and will not be updated going forward.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

25 face mask styles we love that you can buy or make

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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

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

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

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

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

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

VPL

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

More information about the COVID-19 pandemic

Watch this: Masks, wipes and air filters: Flying in the age of coronavirus
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.