17 Face masks for safety without sacrificing style

From the 24th of July, all shoppers in the UK will have to wear masks! That’s not a suggestion, that’s a law, and if you break it, you’ll face fines and/or being thrown out of the store you’re shopping. Try your hardest not to be a jerk about this, please. If wearing a mask can help us all get back to life as usual, why wouldn’t you do your bit to take part? Of course it’s inconvenient. Of course it’s annoying. No one wants to walk the world with a mask. And, if you can’t wear a mask for medical reasons, maybe get someone else to go out and do the shopping for you. It’s really that easy. If I see another video of my fellow Americans claiming they have rights that entitle them to choose whether or not to wear a mask, I’ll scream. Do your part to protect us all!!!! Yes, we’re asking you not to be a selfish child. We’re asking you to take a hit for the team, for all of us, for your family and friends, for people you haven’t met or probably never will. The point is, we want to keep EVERYONE safe. And news flash, genius, the mask is also for your safety. It’s the best defence we have at the moment. Alright lecture over.

The fact of that matter is this…masks are here to stay, for a while. No one knows for how long, but predictions are saying masks will be a mandatory part of society for at least the remainder of 2020. Knowing that, I’ve immediately gone from thinking, “I’ll just wear a plain white/blue mask I can buy in a pharmacy” to, “well, I’m going to be wearing this for a while, so I might as well be comfortable and stylish to boot.” And that’s where we are today, with me sharing 17 face masks that are effective, stylish and comfortable. I’ve ordered five different masks to start, one for every day of the week I’m most likely out and about. It’s important to have more than one, as masks need to be washed between wearings. I also firmly believe that you should be buying masks that can be worn again and again. We have enough waste on this planet, people. So, I’ve put in the time to research where I’m buying my masks and I wanted to share what I’ve found along the way. It looks a little something like this…. enjoy! Please note there are some affiliate links present in this post.

 

Image: Rothy’s

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Rothy’s Facemask

£25.20 for a 2-pack

This is one of my favourites. I ordered a set to my house in the USA, to have when I arrive home. So many friends have suggested this pair of masks, for their comfort level.

In their own words:

“A pack of two non-medical masks, designed to be durable, comfortable and fully machine washable (air dry only). The Mask 1.0 sits close to the face, covering the nose and mouth and secures over the ears. We developed this first iteration of masks using our existing thread and 3D knitting technology, and we’ll continue to evolve the design for a second version in the future.”

 

Image: Saint James

Saint James

£40 for a 2-pack

These are my personal favourites, but you know I love a stripe on anything. So yes, I’m looking at this from a fashion perspective and completely aesthetically. However, they also look very comfortable! And they are Saint James… and if you know anything about this brand, you’ll know that these will last!

In their own words:

“Crafted in the same cotton as our Striped Sailor Jerseys, this set of 2 reusable masks approved by the French DGA homologation as catégory 1 Masks, allows you to ensure the protection of those around you, whether in the family or at work. It blocks sputtering when you speak, breathe, sneeze or cough.
A nice way to stay safe in stripes.”

Image: Wolford

Wolford

£20

If you are looking for a simple black face mask, that’s also luxury, look no further. I have this on order, coming soon, so will share more when I receive it. For now, I’ll say it looks like the one I’ll wear the most! The mask also comes in two different sizes!

In their words:

“Double-layered high-quality, breathable fabric ensures easy breathing when worn. The completely water-repellent finish provides full coverage with a perfect fit resulting from finest knitting. Highly elastic, extra-thin bands keep the mask perfectly in place. Before packaging the mask has been treated with UV light to kill bacteria, viruses and germs. Aluminum nose-wires individually adaptable / Washable / Logo application tone-in-tone / Washable at 60°C”

Image: Falke

Falke

£15 for a 2-pack

These masks come in three sizes. This is a major plus. I’ve heard so many people complain that their masks are either too big or too small. Hopefully, sizing will help make your mask more comfortable and therefore easier to wear for longer periods of time.

In their own words:

“The sporty, dynamic mouth and nose mask from FALKE consists of a round-knitted, 2-layer material: the outside is made of hydrophobic, i.e. moisture-repellent material. On the inside of the mask, there is a hydrophilic, i.e. moisture-absorbing material. Unisex model, in a sporty fit, available in various sizes. Suitable for children aged 7 and older. Multi-use: Mask and separate fleece material washable at 95°C.”

Image: Just Hype

Hype

£11.99

This looks pretty darn comfortable doesn’t it? I love the curve of the mask to allow for glasses as well, and it seems to sit flush to the face over the cheeks. I’m so in for this one. It’s not super fashionable, it’s basic. But it works!

In their own words:

“Your everyday essential, the HYPE. sand knit face mask has the perfect soft touch and combined with the right amount of comfort and breathing space you need. This is a fit for adults.”

Image: Etsy

Weardale Wolf

£5.50

Is anyone else thinking that a foam cup is the way to go? Feels like it would give a bit more breathing room, pun intended. These also remind me of the masks painters wear while sanding surfaces. While the colours are nothing special, this would go under basic and easily reusable. Also the most affordable featured thus far.

In their own words:

Our newly designed protective face mask are made from a three layer moulded fabric and foam cup. These super soft, odour free, non, irritating face coverings help protect you from droplets, allergens, dust and pollen.
These masks are designed for the general public and do not take away from our front line workers and NHS.
Ideal for use when leaving the home for essential Items.
The mask fits around the head with 2 elasticated straps.
These masks are reusable and wash at 30 degrees. Do not tumble dry.

Image: Baukjen

Baukjen

£12

Another striped version of a face mask for you! Sorry, I just can’t stop myself. Anything with stripes! And I have ordered this, so you’ll be seeing it in action soon enough.

In their own words:

“Here at Baukjen, we continue to do our best to find new ways to help our customers and the community during COVID-19. We are always listening to our customers and as a result we have now developed premium organic cotton face masks that are sustainably and ethically produced by family-run factories in Portugal. Crafted in 100% organic soft cotton with a high thread count, these masks are double layered and pleated for a comfortable fit. They are re-useable, comfortable, stylish and recyclable. Our masks come in a range of colours as well as our signature prints. Available in adult and child sizes.”

Image: Kurt Geiger

Kurt Geiger 

£15

If you want to keep things bright and beautiful, while locking that gorgeous smile away, opt for a rainbow. There is never enough colour in this world!

In their own words:

“Face mask in Kurt Geiger London’s signature rainbow stripes. Created in a heavy weight interlocked cotton outer, with elastic straps and a soft jersey lining for comfort, along with in-built wiring for a snug fit across the nose. Note, this style fits large but has a stopper so the elastics can be easily adjusted for the perfect fit and comfort. The outer fabric is certified Cotton face mask in Kurt Geiger London’s signature rainbow stripes. 100% of profits will go to UK Black Pride. Created in a heavy weight interlocked cotton outer, with elastic straps and a soft jersey lining for comfort, along with in-built wiring for a snug fit across the nose. Note, this style fits large but the elastics can be easily knotted for the perfect fit and comfort. The outer fabric is certified against COVID-19 according to National Health System guidance issued in April 2020, the fabric is certified as grade 3, providing at least 70% retention of bacteria. There is an accessible pocket for the addition of filters (filters not included nor sold by Kurt Geiger). Machine washable. Designed for personal use only. ”

Image: St John

St John

$50

Could this be more St John? I have a jacket and a pair of trousers from the brand that will match this perfectly! Now, this is a bit pricey, but it’s St John, people. It’s a knit pique, which is currently one of my favourite materials for face masks. I find them breathable, easy to wear and more likely to stay in place.

In their own words:

“Camel and black animal print 3D mask. Embrace a striking animal print in a soft and flexible knit pique. When you buy a Care Mask, we will donate three non-surgical antimicrobial masks to those in need. We have already donated 47,000 to organizations and high-risk communities. We can all work together to protect each other.”

Image: Rowing Blazer

Rowing Blazer

$25

What’s better than stripes? Lots of different coloured stripes!!!! Get involved! Plus, this mask helps others in need…read on…

In their own words:

“We are grateful for, and humbled by, all of the support and excitement surrounding the past four face mask collections we have launched online – made from scraps of leftover blazer, suiting, and shirting fabric right here in New York City’s Garment District. The demand for these masks has been greater than we ever could have imagined. We will continue donating one mask to the Food Bank for New York City for every mask sold: every $25 order buys one mask for you, and one mask for the Food Bank. Thank you for your continued support.”

Image: Boden

Boden

£30 for a 3-pack

Here’s half your week’s masks covered. Boden is offering packs of three, with all the familiar Boden prints we’ve grown to love over the years. This is just pure happiness!

In their own words:

“This is a non-medical face covering and not PPE. Each set of five has a mystery mix of our vibrant prints and a wire across the nose so you can fit them to your face. We’ve made these using the ends of fabric rolls so they’re planet-friendly, too. When wearing this mask, wash your hands before putting it on or taking it off, ensure you have a snug fit and be mindful to not touch your face.”

Image: Rebel

Rebel

£14

This is for those of you that are wearing masks while working out. It’s a bit more intense, but it has to be. Have you tried working out in a regular face mask? It’s hell on earth. There’s no other way to put it. So, Rebel have developed a solution…

In their own words:

“Help stop the spread. Made with soft, breathable fabric the 1Rebel Face mask is comfortable, washable and reusable. Ideal for working out in our studios and for practicing healthy habits every day.”

Image: The Mask Collective

The Mask Collective

£32 for a pack of two

We’re starting to get a bit funkier now. So fashion, no?

In their own words:

“Crafted from a lightweight, breathable topstitched neoprene that feels comfortable on the skin, these unisex masks feature elasticated ear bands to fit all face shapes and sizes.”

Cynthia Rowley

£47

See what I mean by “now we’re getting into style”? Get ready for some stunners, including this embroidered beauty!

In their own words:

“Embroidered cotton mask available for preorder. Due to overwhelming demand, only preorders will be taken, and will be delivered in the order they were received.”

Image: Etsy

Toile Face Mask

£37.45 for three

Worth every extra penny. How beautiful are these? See… wearing a mask doesn’t have to be all bad, guys! Think of it as the must have accessory of 2020!

In their own words:

“Having to wear a face mask doesn’t have to be this hard, these toile face masks are here to make you smile. An eco-friendly way to be colorfully eclectic through these strange days we are going through.”

Image: Plumo

Plumo

£10

Who knew linen has natural antibacterial properties? Makes it ideal for a face mask, no? And this one will make you look as if you’re about to take to the streets of Provence with a loaf of crusty bread in hand. Love!

In their own words:

“Hand-made face mask made from 4 layers of leaf green organic linen. Soft organic cotton earloops allow the mask to be easily put on and removed. Simply knot them for a perfect, smooth fit. Light, breathable, washable at 90 degrees and reusable. Please note that this is not a medical grade mask. However, linen is one of the oldest known fabrics used by mankind and is resilient and functional. More importantly, linen has naturally antibacterial properties.”

Image: Casetify

Casetify

£12

They may be most well known for their phone cases, but Casetify is stepping up to assist in the fight against Covid with these reusable cloth masks.

In their own words:

“Buy a Mask, Donate a Mask. Our reusable face masks are made with breathable cotton materials, washable, and fitted with a filter to help fight the spread of illness. We are kicking off our efforts with a donation of 35,000 masks to Direct Relief. We’re thankful for your support in helping to protect health workers on the frontlines, as well as helping to protect yourself and your community.”

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